This course provides an introductory level overview of the United States Health Care system, including a basic understanding of pertinent historical, current, political, organizational, human resources, financial, and quality issues. The course will explore basic principles and tools of management, including the planning, organizing, directing, and controlling functions of healthcare organizations. The course is designed to provide students with a working knowledge of current healthcare institutional structures and delivery systems, as well as the evolving health needs of U.S. citizens. Students research organizational structure and theory appropriate for healthcare administration. Emphasis is placed on the basic concepts and issues that are associated with the management and regulation of health care providers and the delivery of services. Evolving alternative delivery systems are reviewed, as are changes occurring in the field of healthcare management.