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You are here Postgraduate > MSc in Economic Policy > Course Structure > Health Economics

Health Economics

Module Code: ECP77314

  • ECTS Credit: 5
  • Mandatory/Optional: Elective module (optional)
  • Period: Semester 3
  • Module Coordinator: Dr Sheelah Connolly
  • Teaching Staff: Dr Sheelah Connolly,  Dr Anne Nolan

Module Content

This module will focus on practical applications of economics in the healthcare sector.  It will introduce the key determinants of healthcare demand and supply and identify market failures that arise in the sector. The role of policymakers in overcoming market failures and achieving equity objectives will be considered.

Other topics will include an overview of the methods used for evaluating health interventions and programmes, an examination of how incentives for providers and patients affect behaviours, the role of policy instruments in advancing public health objectives, and discussion of the distinctive features of health labour markets. Finally, the role of the private sector in healthcare will be examined.  Examples from Ireland will be used throughout.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

MLO10.1   Apply economic principles to key issues affecting health and  healthcare; 

MLO10.2   Describe the causes of market failure in healthcare and how such failures may be overcome;

MLO10.3   Explain the options available for achieving equity objectives;

MLO10.4   Discuss the main evaluation techniques applied in healthcare;

MLO10.5   Describe the role of incentives in affecting provider and patient behaviour.

Module Assessment

  • Project [40%]: It will involve a practical application of material studied during the module.
  • Final Examination [60%]: It will test critical understanding and appropriate application of topics covered in the module.