Welcome

Dr. Brieger

Welcome to Social and Behavioral Foundations of Primary Health Care. According to the Alma Ata Declaration of 1978, primary health care (PHC) is essential care provided through the full participation of the community. In addition to being scientifically sound, PHC must be adapted to the social, cultural, political, and economic context of the community. Health education, the first of eight essential PHC components, is itself an applied social science for health. Therefore, in order for public health practitioners to deliver effective PHC, they must possess a basic understanding of the social influences on human health behavior.

This course is taught in modules that take an ecological view of factors that influence human health behavior from the individual, social group, community, institutional, and policy levels. Through a series of short assignments, you will practice the skills needed to conduct "behavioral diagnosis"—that is, the process of determining the factors that influence particular health-related behaviors. The course will also emphasize human health behavior in a cross-cultural context.

Enjoy the course!

— Bill Brieger

"[H]aving worked in PHC in Africa for over a decade, I was very impressed with Dr. Brieger's creativity, positivity and 'can do' approach in the face of very challenging circumstances. It was VERY interesting to see the principles he was communicating illustrated with actual case studies from his experience and see the real problems that were addressed successfully."

"The subject matter is absolutely fascinating."

"Dr. Brieger is obviously a dynamic PH practitioner and effectively communicates his experience. JH is fortunate to have such a creative and experienced practitioner who also has good training skills."

"I thoroughly enjoyed the course!"

"Instructor's many published articles and field experiences were invaluable. The materials and assignments also showed he put a lot of thought into the course design."