Economics of Health Care in Asia-Pacific Countries

In order to control ever-increasing health care expenditure, Western and Asian countries are seeking to develop more efficient health care models. The papers in this book present quantitative research on various aspects of health care reform and health policy in Asia-Pacific countries such as China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and in the US - nations diverse in their economic development, social demographic structure and health care expenditures. The main topic for discussion in this book is the role of both government and health insurers in funding healthcare. The implementation of community based, supplemental and national health insurance is explored, as are grants and the financing of hospitals and the care for the elderly. The effectiveness of education as an input to health investment and the rehabilitation of patients are also examined. Aiming to close the gap between the existing economics research and the rapid pace of the development of Asian health care markets, this book should be of interest to policymakers, researchers, academics and students alike.