CHE 50200-H02/CHE 49700-H01

Analytical Approach to Healthcare Delivery (Fall 2023)

 

A. Instructor. William R. Clark, M.D.

 

B. Course description. This course provides a “real world” overview of healthcare delivery in the United States (US). The biopharmaceutical industry as the leading medical technology sector is a significant focus - analyses of the research and development, manufacturing, and commercial operations of a typical company are performed. Another highlight of the course is an assessment of a series of critical medical conditions having the highest impact on the US healthcare system. Clinical cases illustrating these conditions along with case studies designed to provide practical examples of healthcare developments and challenges are included. A number of emerging healthcare developments, including precision medicine, artificial intelligence, digital health, and value-based care, are addressed. In addition, the numerous ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic has affected patients are discussed. In lieu of examinations, a team project consisting of two oral presentations and a final report is an important aspect of the course.

 

While the course is relevant to a broad spectrum of students, those planning a career in the healthcare industry may find it particularly useful. The course content is geared especially toward students interested in the biopharmaceutical field.

 

C. Course requirements. BIOL 23000 or equivalent course is recommended but not mandatory.

 

D. Instructor Biographical Information: Dr. Clark is a nephrologist (kidney specialist) and chemical engineer by training. He received his M.D. degree along with specialty and sub-specialty training in internal medicine and nephrology, respectively, at Indiana University School of Medicine. In addition, he received both his B.S and M.S. degrees in chemical engineering from Purdue University, at which he is now Professor of Engineering Practice in the Davidson School of Chemical Engineering. Before joining the Purdue faculty, Dr. Clark worked in the medical device (dialysis) industry for more than 20 years in a variety of positions. Dr. Clark continues to serve as a consultant in the dialysis industry.

 

E. Recommended (NOT REQUIRED) Texts.

F. Course Learning Outcomes.

G. Course Meeting Schedule.

 

Lectures: Tuesday/Thursday TBD

Presentation 1: TBD

Presentation 2: TBD

Final Report due: TBD

 

At the approximate mid-point of the semester, students will assemble into groups of 2-3 and choose a high-impact clinical condition to study. Each group will provide two progress updates (Presentations 1 and 2) during the course of the semester in lieu of formal examinations. A complete written summary of each group’s assessment (Final Report) will be due at semester’s end in lieu of a final examination.

 

H. Instructor Contact Information.

Professor William R. Clark – Email: clarkw@purdue.edu, Telephone: (765) 496-8647 (office); (317) 691-1438 (cell)

Office: FRNY 1055

Office Hours: TBD

 

I. Assessment of Course Outcomes. A weighted average grade will be calculated as follows.

 

Homework assignments (4): 20% of total

#1: assigned September 16/due September 26

#2: assigned September 30/due October 10

#3: assigned October 14/due October 24

#4: assigned November 18/due November 28

Presentations (2): 40% total

Final report: 40% of total

 

The grading scale will be as follows.

A: 100 – 85% of the weighted points

B: 84.9 – 75% of the weighted points

C: 74.9 – 65% of the weighted points

D: 64.9 – 55% of the weighted points

F: Less than 55% of the weighted points

 

Note that students with grades within 3 weighted percentage points of either the upper or lower bounds of a grade range listed above will receive a “plus” or “minus” mark, respectively, after his/her score (e.g., scores between 75% and 78% of the total weighted points would earn a B–). Marks of an A– will not be given.

 

Group projects

Student groups may assess a high-impact clinical condition from the list of those discussed in class or another one (with instructor approval). In either case, each group should plan to meet with Professor Clark before beginning work on the project to set expectations. The assessment will include the clinical characteristics of the disorder along with its causes, demographics, and current treatment – these topics will be presented in Presentation 1. With Professor Clark or another engineering faculty member serving as a mentor, an unmet clinical need for the disorder will be identified along with an engineering-based solution for the problem – these considerations will be the focus of Presentation 2. For a particular disorder, the engineering approach can have a direct clinical effect (e.g., improved medical device treatment) or indirect clinical effect (e.g., novel manufacturing approach for pharmaceuticals).

 

J. Course Schedule (subject to change)

 

     LECTURE                           TOPIC

*: guest lecturer

**: make-up for evening presentation session