IHP Health and Community

(10 days)

The seat of government of one of the richest nations in the world and hub of international policymaking, Washington, DC, is also home to some of the greatest wealth disparities of any city in the United States. Over the course of two weeks, explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods; meet with activists, government officials, and global health experts at non-governmental organizations; study the many social determinants of health; and develop your own perspectives before exploring similar issues internationally.

(4+ weeks)

India is a world power with a burgeoning economy and nearly 18 percent of the global population. In Delhi, India’s capital, consider the impact and response to the pandemic while examining how marginalized populations fight against infectious diseases like HIV and Dengue, while facing a lack of access to clean water and food. Study health disparities among various populations including sexual and religious minorities, as well as the physical health challenges of farmers and laborers moving in and out of urban spaces. Gain insights into potential solutions from distinguished academics, NGOs, local health experts, and government leaders. An excursion to Udaipur-Jaipur allows you to learn about Rajasthan State’s public healthcare system, from tertiary super specialized care to the village level. Udaipur city is known for its beautiful lakes and splendid green Aravalli mountains. As the home of Bhil tribes who maintain their indigenous system of medicine and traditional medical practices, this location offers a unique opportunity to learn about about tribal health. In Jaipur, you will meet with state healthcare policymakers and administrators to understand the strengths and challenges of a state healthcare delivery system.

(4+ weeks) 

In one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, the colonial and apartheid history of South Africa reverberates to this day. With its blatant disparity of wealth and unequal distribution of resources, Cape Town provides a distinct opportunity to analyze how the country’s recent history shapes South Africans’ access to healthcare, education and, in some cases, basic services. Compare pandemic response strategies and outcomes, and engage in community-level explorations in Cape Town’s close-knit community of Bo Kaap and the rural township of Zwelethemba. Examine how changes in political structure impact health and community life in both positive and troubling ways—from grassroots activism to persistent health disparities. This comparison highlights the work of marginalized communities committed to political, social, and economic transformation and health justice.

(4+ weeks) 

While Jordan is home to world-renowned healthcare resources, it is also a nation surrounded by political turmoil and is now home to refugees from Palestine, Iraq, and Syria. In greater Amman, learn about healthcare services in urban and refugee settings through lenses of government-, private-, and NGO-driven healthcare. Examine the impact of COVID-19 on the Jordanian healthcare system as you learn about the health and well-being of health care providers themselves. During an excursion to the south, you will explore more rural spaces such as the ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site; Wadi Rum, where you will learn about Bedouin experiences of health and well-being; and Aqaba, where you will experience modern and traditional practices. Across these contexts you will draw together the interconnected health factors of physical, mental, and social well-being in Jordan.