CHE 59700-H02/CHE 49700-H01
Analytical Approach to Healthcare Delivery (Fall 2021)
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 major medical technology segments (pharmaceutical compounds and medical devices) are a significant focus,
including their research and development processes, regulatory framework, and market approaches. 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 and the manner in which they receive healthcare 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 toward students interested in the pharmaceutical or medical device
industry along with those pursuing post-graduate clinical training (e.g., medical school, osteopathic school).
C. Course requirements. The course is open to all undergraduate students and all students enrolled in the Graduate
School. 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.
• Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology, Edited by John E. Hall, Elsevier, 2016, 13th ed, ISBN: 978–
1-4557-7005-2
• Crowley’s An Introduction to Human Disease: Pathology and Pathophysiology Correlations, Edited by Emily
Reisner, Howard Reisner, Jones and Bartlett Learning, 2017, 10th ed, ISBN 978-1284050233
• Jonas and Kovner’s Health Care Delivery in the United States, Edited by James R. Knickman and Brian Elbel,
Springer, 2019, 12th ed, ISBN: 9780826172723
F. Course Learning Outcomes.
• Evaluate the impact of the following conditions, from both a clinical and resource utilization (cost) perspective:
coronary artery disease, heart failure, diabetes, cancer, obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, chronic kidney disease,
stroke, arthritis, sepsis, and acute kidney injury.
• Analyze the major segments of medical products (pharmaceutical/biotechnology compounds and medical
devices) along with the regulatory framework applying to each of these segments.
• For the biopharmaceutical industry, determine the major components of the drug development process and the
manner in which drug pricing factors into the risk/reward equation.
• Assess US health economics by identifying the major cost drivers in the healthcare system (hospital care;
physician costs; drugs and other medical products).
• Formulate a basic understanding of the sources of health insurance coverage in the US, including the differences
between government-based (Medicare/Medicaid) and commercial payers.
• Explain several evolving trends which have the potential to influence healthcare substantially in the future,
including precision medicine, artificial intelligence, digital health, and value-based care.
G. Course Meeting Schedule.
Lectures: Tuesday/Thursday 4:30-5:45 PM; HAMP 1266
Presentation 1: October 29
Presentation 2: December 2
Final Report due: December 10
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
