Authors of this blog participate in a University of Washington seminar in Vicenza, Italy called Health in the Context of Italian Culture. The seminar provides a cross-cultural experience in which health outcomes and health systems in Italy are examined in the context of recent Italian history, the socio-cultural environment, and the influence of the European Union. Comparisons are made with health systems and outcomes in the United States in order to gain insights that pertain to Health Care Reform and improved health outcomes.
Access to health care is guaranteed in the Italian constitution. What is the historical context that resulted in this right, and how is it implemented today? How does Italy minimize health disparities among vulnerable populations such as new immigrants? What is the role of the European Union in relation to health outcomes in Italy? How do health professions differ between Italy and the United States? Italy is known for good food, strong family ties, and a vibrant social life. How true are these stereotypes? What are some characteristics of the Italian culture that impact health outcomes? How do health behaviors and outcomes compare between Italy and the United States? These are the issues that are be explored in this seminar.
We welcome your comments.
J Lenart
Hi!
I was impressed seeing so many Italians riding bicycles.
I watched people biking trying to understand what determines them to ride bicycles. Is it because they want to exercise or because it is convenient or cheap to do it?
I think that it is a cheap way of transportation and because the layout of town allows them to do it easy. The secondary effect of this way of transportation is the exercise that Italians benefit from. Another reason I think the Italians ride their bikes everywhere is that they want to be close to other people in the sense of socializing. I do not believe that Italians want to ride their bikes primarily to exercise.