Description
Book SynopsisThis is the most complete text available on the economics of health behavior and health care delivery. Appropriate both for advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students of economics, this text provides the key analytical tools required to understand current research. Issues discussed include the "cost explosion" in health care, the power of medical associations, the search for remuneration systems with favorable incentives, and technological change in medicine. Rather than simplifying the issues facing today’s healthcare systems, the book models existing complexities as they are, adapting economics to reflect the views of the average person.
Trade ReviewFrom the reviews of the second edition:
“The second edition of Health Economics is based on the German version of 1992. It contains all important facts on the specific characteristics of health products and global health markets at an advanced economic level. … The detailed mathematical formulas and derivation of theories are helpful for a better understanding of methodology … . Each chapter concludes with a summary and exercise questions which turn it into a valuable workbook. … a valuable work of reference for experts as well.” (Simone Torka, Journal of Public Health, Vol. 18, May, 2010)
Table of ContentsEconomic Valuation of Life and Health.- Individuals as Producers of Their Health.- Empirical Studies of the Production of Health.- Health Goods, Market Failure and Justice.- Optimal Health Insurance Contracts.- Risk Selection in Health Insurance Markets.- Physicians as Suppliers of Medical Services.- Hospital Services and Efficiency.- Paying Providers.- Forms of Delivery of Medical Care.- The Market for Pharmaceuticals.- The Political Economy of Health Care.- Future Challenges to Health Care Systems.
