Physicians, dentists and other health care professionals are an integral part of public health. For instance, the best way to prevent the flu is to protect yourself with a flu shot. Each flu season physicians report the number of influenza cases to the state epidemiologist to help track whether the number of people getting sick is increasing or decreasing. Physicians may also work with health promotion specialists to develop a health communication strategy that encourages people to practice healthy behaviors such as washing your hands with soap and water, and covering your mouth when you cough. The Health Science Emphasis is designed for pre-med or pre-dental students, particularly those who may be interested in a future career in public health and/or medicine. Doctors or dentists with a background in public health understand both how to prevent and treat illness and disease. In addition, these individuals have the expertise to apply both a medical and a population-base point of view to health problems related to chronic and infectious diseases.
To watch a short tutorial video giving more detail about the health science emphasis, click here.