Health economics / Edilberto B. Viray, Jr., [and 4 others].

Includes bibliographical references.

Nature of health economics -- Health care resources -- Demand and supply for health care resources -- Understanding consumer behavior theory -- The market structures -- Reasons for rising health care cost -- Physician and hospital services market -- Principles of production -- Concepts of cost evaluation in health care -- The role of government in health and medical care.

"This book entitled HEALTH ECONOMICS is a textbook primarily designed and intended for students enrolled in the health sciences programs such as dentistry and nursing. This educational material is also written as a supplementary book for professionals and instructors who wish to learn more and specialize their skills in the said subject. It is the desire of the authors that the readers will gain the necessary understanding needed for them to appreciate the concepts, principles, and phenomena in economics as applied to the health sciences, most especially at this time of a global health concern. Likewise, this book will guide the reader in understanding the nature of health economics and what makes it distinct from other areas of economics as a social science The reader will also be exposed to the demand and supply analysis as a basic tool in understanding economic phenomena; the analysis of costs incurred by the health institutions in the production and delivery of health care services; and the discussion of the Philippine health system, its components, and its features. It is important to note that what makes the health sector interesting to study is that it challenges some of the classical economics concepts since the delivery of health care services is very much different from your classic thought of production, as seen in factories. Each patient tends to have a unique case and will require different inputs when compared to other patients. It is also timely and relevant to note that there are efforts exerted by various organizations, institutions, and government to grant every Filipino's universal health care. But is universal health care free? Is it sustainable? Is it wise to purchase health insurance? What kind of health care services can we offer to future generations of Filipinos? These are just a few of the interesting questions we, as authors, will attempt to shine a light on. Each chapter in this book starts with lesson objectives. These objectives are desired to be met through the discussion, where important concepts are defined, discussed, and illustrated. Certain economic concepts with mathematical applications are also included with sample problems. Knowledge of basic algebra, analytical geometry, differential calculus, and statistical analysis will prove to be advantageous for the students. The book also includes practical exercises and activities at the end of each chapter, which is made to reinforce the concepts presented. The authors also desire that these will strengthen the students' analytical skills in learning, doing, and applying HEALTH ECONOMICS. Lastly, a glossary of the economic terminologies is included at the end of the text for easy reference. Without further ado, we wish everyone a happy and healthy reading! Remember, health is wealth"-- Preface of the book.