What is Health Economics

Health Economics is an applied field of study that allows for the systematic and rigorous examination of the problems faced in promoting health for all. By applying economic theories of consumer, producer and social choice, health economics aims to understand the behavior of individuals, health care providers, public and private organizations, and governments in decision-making. 

Health economics is used to promote healthy lifestyles and positive health outcomes through the study of health care providers, hospitals and clinics, managed care and public health promotion activities. The MHS in Global Health Economics degree program in the Department of International Health at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health uses health economic principals to address global issues such as migration, displaced persons, climate change, vaccine access, injuries, obesity and pandemics. 

Health economists apply the theories of production, efficiency, disparities, competition, and regulation to better inform the public and private sector on the most efficient, cost-effective and equitable course of action. Such research can include the economic evaluation of new technologies, as well as the study of appropriate prices, anti-trust policy, optimal public and private investment and strategic behavior.

Faculty in the Department of International Health are currently conducting research on a wide variety of topics, including the impact of health care, health insurance and preventative services on health lifestyles, as well as providing research and advice to governments around the globe to enable a more effective and equitable allocation of resources. 

Read more about careers in health economics.