ECC3720 · Health economics

Overview

In this unit, you will examine how individuals make decisions about their health, how health care markets operate, and why they often fail to deliver efficient outcomes. You will explore key topics such as the demand for health services, the role of health insurance, the behaviour of health care providers, and the impact of government policy. You will also study broader issues, including health inequalities, the economics of unhealthy behaviours, and the structure of Australia's health care system.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. understand key economic principles and how they apply to the production, consumption, and financing of health care
2. analyse the causes and consequences of market failures in health care markets and assess the role of government intervention
3. evaluate the behaviour of health care providers and consumers, including how incentives and information influence decision-making
4. apply economic tools and concepts to critically assess health policies, insurance markets, and health care systems
5. understand, in broad terms, what health care systems look like in Australia and other countries.

Workload

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. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.