Efficiency Measurement in Health and Health Care

This book provides a concise synthesis of leading edge research in the theory and practise of efficiency measurement in health and health care. Whilst much of the literature in this area is confusing and impregnable, Hollingsworth and Peacock show the logical links between the economic theory underlying efficiency, the methods used in analysis and practical application of measurement techniques including Data Envelopment Analysis and Stochastic Frontiers Analysis. The book outlines which methods are most suitable in which setting, how to specify valid models, and how to undertake a study and effectively disseminate results. The current state of the art is assessed in terms of methods and published applications, and undertakes practical applications of advanced methods, including analysis of economies of scale and scope, variable weightings, specification testing, and estimation of the efficient production of health. Finally, the way forward in efficiency measurement in health is outlined, mapping out an agenda for future research and policy development.