These open response writing prompts can be used as in-class reflections or as assessment activities.

a. The World Health Organization defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. How would you explain this definition? What is a state of complete well-being?

b. Do you think that everyone has a right to health? We could say that sick and injured people deserve to be cared for. Does that mean that sick and injured people have a right to be cared for? Does that mean that someone is obligated to provide health care? Explain your answer.

c. The goal of equity can leave us with problems. For example, is an 80-year-old who is suffering from cognitive decline entitled to the same care in an emergency as an otherwise healthy 30-year-old? Why or why not? In a situation of scarce resources and staffing, which patient would you assist first? Explain your answer.