Economics of Health Care

This course introduces students to the fundamental economic principles and concepts that underpin the healthcare industry. This course covers topics such as healthcare financing, the role of insurance, supply and demand for healthcare services, cost-benefit analysis, and the economic impact of healthcare policies. Students will explore how economic forces shape the delivery and accessibility of healthcare, examining the challenges of controlling costs while ensuring quality care. The course emphasizes the application of economic analysis to real-world healthcare decision-making and policy development.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Understanding Healthcare Economics Concepts: Students will develop a foundational understanding of key economic concepts such as supply and demand, market efficiency, and opportunity cost, and how they apply to the healthcare sector.
• Analyzing Healthcare Financing and Insurance: Gain insights into the economics of healthcare financing, including the role of public and private insurance, reimbursement models, and the financial challenges facing healthcare providers.
• Cost-Benefit and Economic Evaluation: Learn how to apply cost-benefit analysis and other economic evaluation tools to assess healthcare interventions, policies, and programs for efficiency and effectiveness.
• Exploring the Economic Impact of Healthcare Policy: Develop the ability to analyze the economic implications of healthcare policies, including reforms aimed at improving access, controlling costs, and enhancing the quality of care.

These outcomes aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to apply economic principles to healthcare decision-making, preparing them for careers in healthcare administration, policy analysis, and health economics.