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Wynand van de Ven, Richard van Kleef, Frank Eijkenaar, Marco Varkevisser, and Erik Schut

In this MOOC you will learn about the theory and practice of 'regulated competition' (also known as 'managed competition') in healthcare systems. Many countries have implemented or consider implementation of regulated competition in healthcare. Examples include Australia, Belgium, Chile, Colombia, Germany, Ireland, Israel, The Netherlands, Switzerland and the United States. After completing this MOOC, you will be able to explain how regulated competition (in theory) promotes affordability, accessibility and efficiency of healthcare. Moreover, you will be able to explain why (in practice) successful implementation of regulated competition is very complex and often requires difficult trade-offs between policy objectives. We think this MOOC is highly valuable to any student, researcher or professional interested in healthcare system reform and design. Specific topics in this MOOC include a typology of healthcare systems, the economics of healthcare markets, theory and preconditions of regulated competition, risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction and overview
In this module you will be introduced to the teachers involved in this MOOC and you will get an overview of the topics covered by this MOOC. Moreover, you will be asked to briefly introduce yourself. Have fun!
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Why government intervention is necessary & waves of health care reform
In this module you will learn why government intervention in health care is necessary and how governments have intervened in the past century. You will learn that in high income countries three waves of government intervention in health care can be distinguished. Enjoy!
Market & government failure in healthcare
In this module you will learn that, particularly in health care, markets and governments are both far from perfect. The key challenge for market-based health system reform is therefore: how to navigate between market failure and government failure? As a start, you will learn some important lessons that should be taken into account when considering the introduction or strengthening of competition for healthcare provision. Enjoy!
Theory of regulated competition in healthcare systems
In this module you will learn about the model of regulated competition in healthcare systems. More specifically, you will learn what this model looks like and how it can help to simultaneously achieve affordability and efficiency. Have fun!
Preconditions for achieving efficiency & affordability in competitive health care markets
This module will introduce you to ten specific preconditions for achieving efficiency and affordability in competitive healthcare markets. For each precondition, you will learn what the consequences could be if this precondition is not fulfilled. In addition, you will learn to use the preconditions to evaluate the progress of the implementation of regulated competition. Good luck and have fun!
Ongoing reforms: premium regulation, risk equalization & risk sharing in health insurance markets
Social health insurance markets typically include premium regulation to promote affordability of health insurance for people with expensive medical conditions. A side-effect of premium regulation is that it confronts consumers and insurers with incentives for risk selection. In this module you will learn about typical forms of risk selection and their welfare effects. Moreover, you will learn about tools for the regulator to mitigate selection problems. Have fun!
Ongoing reforms: competition regulation in health care
In this module the focus is on effective competition regulation as an important precondition for achieving efficiency in competitive healthcare markets. You will first learn about the basic principles of this type of regulation, after which you will learn about three key issues regarding competition regulation in healthcare. These issues are: (1) hospital merger control; (2) insurer monopsony power; and (3) the potential trade-off between integration, coordination and the use minimum volume standards on the one hand and competition on the other. Good luck and have fun!
Ongoing reforms: provider payment in healthcare systems
In other videos about the preconditions for regulated competition, you’ve learned that in addition to consumers and insurers, providers of care should also be stimulated to spend resources wisely. Clearly, the extent to which this is the case depends on the way in which providers are paid for their services. This module therefore focuses on provider payment systems, and specifically on the design thereof. The core of the module consists of 7 videos divided over 3 lessons: (1) What drives provider payment reform? (2) Provider payment incentives & reform: what does the theory say? And (3) Value-based payment methods: types, design and effects. In contrast to the first lesson, lessons 2 and 3 start with a short introduction which you should read before you begin. Have fun!
Key takeaways & farewell
Congratulations, you are about to complete this MOOC! By now, you should be able to explain the model of regulated competition in healthcare including its background, principles and preconditions for success. In this final module we summarize the primary takeaways from this MOOC and say goodbye.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops a deep understanding of economics of healthcare markets
Suitable for students or healthcare proffesionals interested in healthcare system reform
Is not suitable for learners with no background in healthcare
Taught by professors with vast experience and expertise in healthcare management
Suitable for both undergraduate and graduate students, as well as healthcare professionals who want to strengthen their knowledge
Provides a comprehensive study of regulated competition in healthcare systems

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive course on healthcare regulation

Learners say this healthcare systems course is engaging and well-delivered. The course offers a thorough understanding of healthcare regulations and their impact. Students describe the instructors as knowledgeable and helpful, and appreciate the critical reviews and readings that accompany the lectures.
Instructors are very knowledgeable and helpful.
"Excellent course with excellent professors."
"instructors were very generous with readings"
Course is well-received and informative.
"Excellent course. Thankyou"
"Very nice course. Gained a lot.Thank you"
"Very useful course to understand the health care systems in Europe..."
Comments in the forum were often left unanswered.
"I felt that my comments in the forum were left unanwered"
Course focused only on social healthcare systems, not national healthcare.
"the lecturers only focused on social healthcare systems"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Regulated Competition in Healthcare Systems: Theory & Practice with these activities:
Identify a mentor who can provide guidance on your research or professional development
Finding a mentor can provide you with valuable support and guidance throughout your learning journey.
Show steps
  • Identify potential mentors in your field.
  • Reach out to them and introduce yourself.
  • Establish regular communication and seek their advice.
Review advanced economic models
By reviewing advanced economic models used in healthcare, you'll be better equipped to understand the complex interactions and trade-offs involved in regulated competition.
Browse courses on Economics
Show steps
  • Identify the key economic models used in healthcare.
  • Review the underlying assumptions and limitations of these models.
  • Explore how these models can be applied to analyze and design healthcare systems.
Review basic concepts in economics and healthcare management
Refreshing your knowledge of basic concepts will help ensure that you have a strong foundation for understanding the more advanced topics covered in the course.
Browse courses on Economics
Show steps
  • Review textbooks or online resources on economics and healthcare management.
  • Attend introductory workshops or webinars.
  • Complete practice quizzes or exercises.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Join a study group to discuss the key concepts and theories of regulated competition
Engaging in discussions with peers will help you clarify your understanding of the concepts and theories covered in the course, as well as gain diverse perspectives.
Show steps
  • Find a study group or create your own.
  • Establish regular meeting times and a discussion schedule.
  • Take turns presenting key concepts and leading discussions.
Solve practice problems on risk adjustment and risk selection
Working through practice problems will help you develop a strong understanding of the challenges and complexities associated with risk adjustment and risk selection in competitive health insurance markets.
Browse courses on Risk Adjustment
Show steps
  • Identify the different types of risk adjustment and risk selection methods.
  • Analyze the pros and cons of each method.
  • Apply these methods to real-world healthcare scenarios.
Attend a workshop or conference on the latest developments in healthcare regulation
Attending workshops or conferences can expose you to new ideas and perspectives, and help you stay updated on the latest trends in healthcare regulation.
Show steps
  • Identify relevant workshops or conferences.
  • Register and attend the event.
  • Actively participate in discussions and networking opportunities.
Contribute to open-source projects related to healthcare data analysis or modeling
Contributing to open-source projects can provide you with hands-on experience in applying your skills and knowledge to real-world problems.
Show steps
  • Identify open-source projects that align with your interests.
  • Review the project documentation and contribute to existing issues or discussions.
  • Develop and submit your own code contributions.
Explore case studies of successful and unsuccessful implementations of regulated competition
Examining real-world examples will provide you with valuable insights into the factors that contribute to the success or failure of regulated competition in healthcare.
Show steps
  • Identify case studies of successful and unsuccessful implementations of regulated competition.
  • Analyze the context and key drivers of each case.
  • Extract lessons learned that can be applied to your own research or practice.
Develop a proposal for a research project on the impact of regulated competition on healthcare outcomes
Creating a research proposal will allow you to synthesize your understanding of the course material and apply it to a real-world problem.
Show steps
  • Identify a specific research question on the impact of regulated competition on healthcare outcomes.
  • Develop a research design and methodology.
  • Estimate the potential costs and benefits of your proposed research.

Career center

Learners who complete Regulated Competition in Healthcare Systems: Theory & Practice will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Health Economist
Health Economists study the economic aspects of healthcare, including the demand for and supply of healthcare services, the pricing of healthcare goods and services, and the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare systems. This course may be useful to researchers in this field as it provides a deep understanding of the theory and practice of regulated competition in healthcare systems. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Health Economists.
Health Insurance Actuary
Health Insurance Actuaries analyze and interpret data to assess the financial risks associated with health insurance policies. They use this information to calculate premiums and design benefits packages that meet the needs of policyholders. This course may be particularly relevant to those seeking a career as a Health Insurance Actuary as it covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, which are essential for understanding the financial risks associated with health insurance policies.
Professor Of Public Health
Professors Of Public Health teach and conduct research on public health issues, including the organization and delivery of healthcare services, the prevention and control of disease, and the promotion of healthy behaviors. This course may be particularly relevant to those seeking a career as a Professor Of Public Health as it provides a deep understanding of the theory and practice of regulated competition in healthcare systems. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Professors Of Public Health.
Health Services Manager
Health Services Managers plan, organize, and direct the delivery of health care services in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. This course may be particularly relevant to those seeking a career as a Health Services Manager as it provides a deep understanding of the theory and practice of regulated competition in healthcare systems. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Health Services Managers.
Healthcare Researcher
Healthcare Researchers conduct research on a variety of topics related to healthcare, including the effectiveness of treatments, the cost of care, and the quality of care. This course may be useful to those seeking a career in this role as it provides a deep understanding of the theory and practice of regulated competition in healthcare systems. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Healthcare Researchers.
Health Policy Advisor
Health Policy Advisors analyze and interpret healthcare policies and regulations. They provide advice to policymakers and other stakeholders on the likely impact of proposed changes to the healthcare system. This course may be useful to those seeking a career in this role as it provides a deep understanding of the theory and practice of regulated competition in healthcare systems. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Health Policy Advisors.
Nurse Manager
Nurse Managers plan and direct the activities of nurses and other healthcare professionals in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. This course may be particularly relevant to those seeking a career as a Nurse Manager as it provides a deep understanding of the theory and practice of regulated competition in healthcare systems. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Nurse Managers.
Healthcare Economist
Healthcare Economists study the economic aspects of healthcare, including the demand for and supply of healthcare services, the pricing of healthcare goods and services, and the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare systems. This course may be useful to those seeking a career in this role as it provides a strong foundation in the economics of healthcare markets, including the theory of regulated competition. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Healthcare Economists.
Healthcare Financial Analyst
Healthcare Financial Analysts analyze and interpret financial data to assess the financial performance of healthcare organizations. This course may be useful to those seeking a career in this role as it provides a deep understanding of the financial aspects of healthcare organizations, including the theory and practice of regulated competition. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Healthcare Financial Analysts.
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare Consultants provide advice to healthcare organizations on a variety of topics, including strategic planning, operational improvement, and financial management. This course may be useful to those seeking a career in this role as it provides a broad overview of the healthcare system, including the theory and practice of regulated competition. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Healthcare Consultants.
Healthcare Policy Analyst
Healthcare Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop policies to improve the healthcare system. This course may be useful to those seeking a career in this role as it provides a deep understanding of the theory and practice of regulated competition in healthcare systems. The course covers topics such as the economics of healthcare markets, risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment. This knowledge can be valuable for Healthcare Policy Analysts who are responsible for developing and implementing policies that promote affordability, accessibility, and efficiency in healthcare.
Healthcare Planner
Healthcare Planners develop and implement plans to improve the health of a community or population. This course may be useful to those seeking a career in this role as it provides a deep understanding of the healthcare system, including the theory and practice of regulated competition. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Healthcare Planners.
Management Consultant
Management Consultants help businesses and organizations improve their performance. They may specialize in a particular area of consulting, such as healthcare. This course may be useful to those seeking a career in healthcare management consulting as it provides a deep understanding of the theory and practice of regulated competition in healthcare systems. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Healthcare Management Consultants.
Insurance Agent
Insurance Agents sell and service insurance policies to individuals and businesses. This course may be useful to those seeking a career in this role as it provides a deep understanding of the insurance industry, including the theory and practice of regulated competition in healthcare systems. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Insurance Agents.
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of healthcare organizations, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. They are responsible for ensuring that these organizations operate efficiently and effectively. This course may be useful to those seeking a career in this role as it provides a broad overview of the healthcare system, including the theory and practice of regulated competition. The course also covers topics such as risk adjustment and risk selection in health insurance, competition policy and provider payment, which are all relevant to the work of Healthcare Administrators.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Regulated Competition in Healthcare Systems: Theory & Practice.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the economics of health care, including the role of government intervention and the principles of regulated competition.
Offers a comprehensive analysis of competition and regulation in health care markets, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities of regulated competition.
Provides a global perspective on competition and regulation in healthcare, examining the experiences of different countries and offering lessons for policy makers.
Presents a market-driven model for health care reform, arguing that competition and innovation are essential for achieving better outcomes.
Offers a comparative perspective on the regulation of the healthcare industry, providing valuable insights into different approaches and their implications.
Provides a theoretical framework for understanding competition in healthcare markets, offering insights into the factors that promote or hinder competition.

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