Public Health Law and Policy

The Public Health Law and Policy course will explore a range of health issues which lie at the intersection of the state, police powers, and individual rights prerogatives. Examples include the government's powers to impose quarantine or evacuation and to mandate vaccination and treatment; the extent to which public health agencies can or should regulate lifestyle behaviors such as diet; the friction between state authority and privacy of medical records; and the legal issues related to bioterrorism. Students will consider the differing roles played by federal and state government, and by the legislative, executive and judicial branches at each level.

Grading and Method of Evaluation:
Letter grade with pass/fail option. Take Home Exam.