6 points, SCA Band 3, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate, Postgraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Organisational Unit
Coordinator(s)
Not offered in 2017
Synopsis
A survey of theoretical issues in the economics of health systems and the major health policy issues confronting Australia. Emphasis is given to theories which differ from economic orthodoxy. Topics include market characteristics; market failure and regulation; equity and issues of social justice; demand analysis and human capital; the production of health and health care; theories of price formation; hospital models and hospital payment; optimal health insurance; and alternatives to Medicare.
Outcomes
The learning goals associated with this unit are to:
- have a clear understanding of the theoretical debate over the 'special' characteristics of health and the health care and health insurance markets
- have a clear understanding of the major theories of the demand for health care
- have a clear understanding of the use of economic incentives to achieve allocative and technical efficiency in the production of both health and health care services
- be familiar with the social and institutional characteristics of the Australian health care market and the various proposals for its reform.
Assessment
Within semester assessment: 40% + Examination: 60%
Workload requirements
Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. The unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.
See also Unit timetable information