Health Policy and Economics

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Understand the basic premise under which allocation decisions in the public health field are taken
• Critically analyse the advantage and disadvantage of government intervention in health care
• Understand the concepts behind health economic analysis and decision making
• Understand the structure and functioning of health care markets
• Apply a global perspective to understanding the resource implications and economic efficiency of health care systems

The module will provide an introduction to the economics of health, health care markets and public

policy. The following themes will be covered:

1.Introduction to health economics

2.Demand for health and health care

3.Health care supply: agency relationship between patients and physicians, the competitiveness of health care markets, the geographical configuration of health care services, and methods for paying health care providers

4.Market failure and the role of government (social insurance, NHS)

5.Health insurance and health care systems (adverse selection, moral hazard)

6.SES and the determinants of health

7.Unhealthy behaviours and the behavioural economics of health

8.Externalities and public health

Teaching and learning methods

The module will consist of lectures with theoretical analysis and real-world examples and applications to improve students' learning and analytical skills. In-class group discussions of research papers will facilitate deeper understanding and encourage critical thinking.

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

Other. You will access to relevant study materials including lecture slides, selected reading and assignment details/electronic submission via Blackboard.

Textbooks

J Bhattacharya, T Hyde, P Tu (2014). Health Economics.

Assessment strategy

Assessment in this module is through online quizzes (worth 20% of the final mark in total), a group presentation (30%) where each student gives a short presentation on one scientific article, and an essay (50%). This is supported by continuous formative assessment in form of problems and exercises. This is the same for internal repeat. Assessment for external repeat and referral is through 100% essay.

Formative

This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External