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The Economics of Health Care Delivery

Ezekiel J. Emanuel, MD, PhD and Guy David, PhD

In this course, you’ll learn about the key components of health care, and the economics behind their principles and pricing strategies. Professors Ezekiel Emanuel of Penn Medicine and Guy David of the Wharton School have designed this course to help you understand the complex structure of the health care system and health insurance. Through study and analysis of providers and insurance through an economic lens, you’ll learn how basic economic principles apply to both principles and payment methods. By the end of this course, you’ll be able to identify different types of health care providers and understand the dynamic between the providers and patient so you can employ best practices and maximize profit for your health care organization.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1
This module was designed to give you a deeper understanding of the history and structure of the American health care system. You’ll begin by examining the history of health care providers and improvements in health care technology throughout the years. Then you’ll look at the different evolutions of insurance throughout history, the purpose of health insurance, and the inherent issues and solutions within the concept of insurance. You’ll learn key aspects of Medicare, Medicaid, and other government programs that increase access to health care. Then, you’ll evaluate the Iron Triangle of Health Care—quality, cost, and access—and the main areas of focus and tension for health care policy. By the end of this module, you’ll have a richer understanding of the growth of health care providers, insurance, and government programs and their impact on health care access.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the fundamentals of healthcare, including providers, economics, and insurance principles
Suitable for individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of healthcare economics and its impact on patients and providers
Taught by renowned instructors Ezekiel Emanuel and Guy David, providing expert insights into healthcare policy and economics
Course materials include a blend of videos, readings, and discussion forums, enhancing engagement and comprehension
Structured with clear modules and assessments, ensuring progressive learning and reinforcement
Requires foundational knowledge in healthcare or economics to fully grasp the complexities discussed

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Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Economic overview of us healthcare

According to learners, this course provides a comprehensive overview of the economics of the US healthcare system. Students highlight the expert instruction from professors at Penn and Wharton as a major strength. Many found the content highly relevant for healthcare professionals seeking to understand market dynamics and policy. While the course covers key topics like insurance, providers, and government programs, some reviewers noted its strong focus on the American context, which may limit applicability for international learners. A few mention that having a basic economics background can be helpful, although others found it accessible without one. Overall, it is considered a valuable introduction for those interested in the economic underpinnings of healthcare delivery.
Prior economics knowledge can be helpful.
"I struggled a bit with some of the economic concepts as I had no prior background in economics."
"While I don't have an economics degree, the course was still accessible."
"A basic understanding of microeconomics helps, but isn't strictly necessary if you're willing to put in the effort."
Lecture content is well-presented.
"The lectures are clear, concise, and easy to follow."
"Professor Emanuel's delivery is engaging and makes learning enjoyable."
"Content in the video lectures is well-organized and explained effectively."
Provides a broad understanding of the US system.
"This course gave me a great understanding of the structure and economic principles behind the US healthcare system."
"Learned a lot about insurance, providers, and government programs from an economic perspective. It's a good foundation."
"It provides a comprehensive look at the key players and economic drivers in healthcare delivery."
Highly applicable for healthcare professionals.
"I found the concepts discussed immediately applicable to my job in healthcare management."
"This course provided valuable insights for my career in health policy."
"Highly recommend for anyone working in or looking to work in the business side of healthcare."
Taught by highly knowledgeable professors.
"The instructors, particularly Professor Emanuel and David, are clearly experts in their field and convey the information effectively."
"Loved learning from the Penn and Wharton professors. Their expertise is evident."
"The instructors were excellent, making complex topics understandable."
Content is heavily focused on the American context.
"While excellent for the US system, the heavy focus on Medicare/Medicaid made it less relevant for me outside the US."
"Keep in mind this course is very US-centric. If you need a global view, you might need supplements."
"It's a fantastic course for understanding the US market, but not applicable internationally."

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 The Economics of Health Care Delivery with these activities:
Review the basics of economics
Refresh your knowledge of basic economic concepts and principles to better understand the context of healthcare economics.
Browse courses on Economics
Show steps
  • Read through introductory economics textbooks or articles.
  • Review your notes or past coursework on economic principles.
  • Take practice quizzes or answer review questions.
Review Healthcare Economics
Become familiar with the basic principles of economics to apply to healthcare
Browse courses on Healthcare Economics
Show steps
  • Review the basic concepts of supply and demand
  • Review the concept of healthcare externalities
  • Consider the relationship between healthcare and government
Read 'The Health Gap' by Michael Marmot
Explore the social and economic determinants of health by reading 'The Health Gap' to gain insights into the factors that shape health outcomes and healthcare disparities.
View The Health Gap: The Challenge of an Unequal... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book
  • Read and reflect on the key concepts and arguments presented
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Practice applying economic principles to healthcare scenarios
Strengthen your ability to analyze and solve healthcare economic problems.
Browse courses on Healthcare Economics
Show steps
  • Identify economic concepts relevant to healthcare case studies.
  • Apply economic principles to analyze healthcare data.
  • Estimate the costs and benefits of healthcare interventions.
Analyze case studies and news articles
Apply economic principles to real-world healthcare scenarios by analyzing case studies and news articles to gain practical insights into the functioning and challenges of the healthcare system.
Show steps
  • Identify and collect relevant case studies or news articles
  • Read and analyze the materials, focusing on the economic aspects
  • Summarize your findings and discuss them with peers or an instructor
Develop a data visualization on healthcare spending trends
Gain hands-on experience in analyzing and presenting healthcare data.
Browse courses on Healthcare Economics
Show steps
  • Gather data on healthcare spending trends.
  • Clean and process the data.
  • Choose appropriate data visualization techniques.
  • Create the data visualization.
  • Write a brief report summarizing your findings.
Create a presentation on a healthcare policy issue
Research and present on a healthcare policy issue to deepen your understanding of policy development and implementation, as well as the impact on healthcare delivery and access.
Show steps
  • Choose a healthcare policy issue to focus on
  • Research and gather evidence to support your analysis
  • Develop a clear and logical argument for your presentation
  • Create a visually appealing presentation with supporting materials
Develop a business plan for a healthcare organization
Create a comprehensive business plan for a healthcare organization, considering market analysis, competitive advantage, financial projections, and marketing strategies, to enhance your understanding of the business side of healthcare.
Browse courses on Healthcare Management
Show steps
  • Research the healthcare industry and identify a specific niche
  • Develop a mission statement and business goals
  • Conduct a market analysis and identify target audience
  • Outline operational plans, including staffing, services, and technology
  • Create financial projections and marketing strategies
Volunteer as a tutor or mentor in healthcare economics
Share your knowledge and skills by volunteering as a tutor or mentor in healthcare economics, reinforcing your understanding while supporting others in their learning journey.
Browse courses on Healthcare Education
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to volunteer with organizations or institutions
  • Prepare lesson plans or materials to assist learners
  • Provide guidance and support to individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge in healthcare economics

Career center

Learners who complete The Economics of Health Care Delivery will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare Consultants provide expert guidance to healthcare organizations on improving their operations, efficiency, and profitability. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this role by providing a deep understanding of the healthcare system, payment methods, and provider dynamics. You'll learn how to analyze healthcare data, identify areas for improvement, and make recommendations that drive positive outcomes for healthcare organizations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Consultant
Health Insurance Actuary
Health Insurance Actuaries use mathematical and statistical techniques to assess the financial risks and costs associated with health insurance plans. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can provide you with a solid foundation in the principles of insurance, pricing, and risk management. You'll learn how to analyze claims data, develop pricing models, and make recommendations that help health insurance companies make informed decisions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Insurance Actuary
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrators oversee the daily operations of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can help you understand the financial and operational challenges facing healthcare organizations. You'll learn how to manage budgets, allocate resources, and implement policies that improve patient care and organizational efficiency.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Policy Analyst
Healthcare Policy Analysts research and analyze healthcare policies to inform decision-making at local, state, and federal levels. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare system and the economic factors that shape policy decisions. You'll learn how to assess the impact of policies on healthcare access, quality, and cost.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Policy Analyst
Health Economist
Health Economists apply economic principles to analyze healthcare issues, such as the cost-effectiveness of medical treatments, the impact of health insurance on healthcare utilization, and the determinants of health outcomes. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can provide you with a strong foundation in health economics and equip you with the tools to conduct rigorous research and analysis.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Economist
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives market and sell pharmaceutical products to healthcare providers. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can help you gain a better understanding of the healthcare industry, including the role of pharmaceutical companies and the factors that influence drug pricing. You'll learn how to effectively communicate the benefits of pharmaceutical products to healthcare providers and build strong relationships with key decision-makers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Medical Underwriter
Medical Underwriters assess the risk of issuing health insurance policies to individuals and groups. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can provide you with a deeper understanding of the insurance industry and the factors that influence underwriting decisions. You'll learn how to evaluate medical information, assess risk factors, and determine appropriate premiums.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Underwriter
Healthcare Market Researcher
Healthcare Market Researchers conduct research to understand the needs of healthcare consumers and providers. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to conduct market research in the healthcare industry. You'll learn how to design and implement surveys, analyze data, and identify trends that can inform marketing strategies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Market Researcher
Healthcare Data Analyst
Healthcare Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret healthcare data to improve patient care and organizational efficiency. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can provide you with a solid foundation in healthcare data analysis. You'll learn how to use statistical software, interpret complex data, and communicate findings to stakeholders.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Data Analyst
Healthcare IT Specialist
Healthcare IT Specialists design, implement, and maintain information technology systems for healthcare organizations. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can help you gain a better understanding of the healthcare industry and the role of technology in improving healthcare delivery. You'll learn about the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing and managing healthcare IT systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare IT Specialist
Healthcare Compliance Officer
Healthcare Compliance Officers ensure that healthcare organizations comply with all applicable laws and regulations. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare industry and the regulatory environment in which it operates. You'll learn about the importance of compliance and how to implement effective compliance programs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Compliance Officer
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistants are licensed healthcare professionals who practice medicine under the supervision of a physician. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can provide you with a better understanding of the healthcare system and the role of Physician Assistants within it. You'll learn about the challenges and opportunities facing Physician Assistants and how to provide high-quality patient care in a variety of settings.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physician Assistant
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Practitioners are licensed healthcare professionals who provide a wide range of healthcare services, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and ordering tests. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can provide you with a better understanding of the healthcare system and the role of Nurse Practitioners within it. You'll learn about the challenges and opportunities facing Nurse Practitioners and how to provide high-quality patient care in a variety of settings.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nurse Practitioner
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurses provide direct patient care in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can provide you with a better understanding of the healthcare system and the role of Registered Nurses within it. You'll learn about the challenges and opportunities facing Registered Nurses and how to provide high-quality patient care.
See salaries and explore the career path for Registered Nurse
Licensed Practical Nurse
Licensed Practical Nurses provide basic nursing care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse or other healthcare professional. The Economics of Health Care Delivery can provide you with a better understanding of the healthcare system and the role of Licensed Practical Nurses within it. You'll learn about the challenges and opportunities facing Licensed Practical Nurses and how to provide high-quality patient care.
See salaries and explore the career path for Licensed Practical Nurse

Reading list

We've selected 11 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 The Economics of Health Care Delivery.
Cover image
Health Economics
Save
Concepts and tools to understand the main issues facing health care policy makers around the world today.
Health Economics: An International Perspective
Kindle Edition
$$
Health Economics: An International Perspective
Hardcover
$$$$
Health Economics: An International Perspective
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Handbook of Health Economics
Save
This authoritative handbook offers a comprehensive and in-depth examination of the field of health economics. It covers a wide range of topics, including health insurance, provider behavior, and the economics of aging, providing a valuable reference for advanced students and researchers.
Handbook of Health Economics (Volume 2) (Handbooks...
Hardcover
$$$$
Handbook of Health Economics (ISSN 2)
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Drug Policy and the Public Good
Save
Guide to the fundamental economic principles applied to healthcare systems.
Drug Policy and the Public Good
Paperback
$$
Drug Policy and the Public Good
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Determinants of Health
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of health economics. Serves as a valuable reference tool for professionals in the healthcare industry.
Determinants of Health: An Economic Perspective
Hardcover
$$$
Determinants of Health: An Economic Perspective
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
The Economics of Health and Health Care
Save
A classic textbook on the economics of health and healthcare. Provides a comprehensive overview of the field.
The Economics of Health and Health Care
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Redefining Health Care
Save
This forward-looking book emphasizes the importance of value-based health care, which is becoming increasingly important in the healthcare system. It offers practical strategies for improving the quality and reducing the cost of healthcare delivery.
Redefining Health Care: Creating Value-Based...
Hardcover
$$
Redefining Health Care: Creating Value-based...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Taking Ethics Seriously
Save
In-depth economic analysis of health care systems around the world.
Taking Ethics Seriously
Hardcover
$$
Taking Ethics Seriously: Why Ethics Is an Essential...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Economics and Health Care
Save
Presents a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of the key economic issues in the health care sector.
Economics and Health Care
Paperback
Check
Economics and Health Care
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Economic Analysis in Healthcare
Save
This comprehensive guide to health insurance covers its history, design, and regulation. It provides valuable insights into the complex world of health insurance, which key component of the course.
Economic Analysis in Healthcare
Paperback
Check
Economic Analysis in Healthcare
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Introduction to US Health Policy
Save
This comprehensive text and reader provides a deep dive into the political and policy landscape of health care. It offers a collection of essays and case studies that explore the complex interplay between politics and health care delivery.
Introduction to US Health Policy: The Organization,...
Paperback
$$$
Introduction to US Health Policy: The Organization,...
Paperback
$$$
Introduction to U.S. Health Policy: The...
Paperback
$$
Introduction to U.S. Health Policy: The...
Paperback
$$
Introduction to US Health Policy: The Organization,...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Introduction to US Health Policy
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Innovator's Prescription: A Disruptive Solution...
Save
This thought-provoking book explores disruptive innovation in health care, offering fresh perspectives and ideas for transforming the system. It provides valuable insights beyond the traditional economic models covered in the course.
The Innovator's Prescription: A Disruptive Solution...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Pennsylvania
Instructors
Ezekiel J. Emanuel, MD, PhD
Guy David, PhD
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a collection called The Business of Health Care. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Health Care Innovation
  2. Management Fundamentals
  3. The Economics of Health Care Delivery (viewing)
  4. Financial Acumen for Non-Financial Managers
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the fundamentals of healthcare, including providers, economics, and insurance principles
Suitable for individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of healthcare economics and its impact on patients and providers
Taught by renowned instructors Ezekiel Emanuel and Guy David, providing expert insights into healthcare policy and economics
Course materials include a blend of videos, readings, and discussion forums, enhancing engagement and comprehension
Structured with clear modules and assessments, ensuring progressive learning and reinforcement
Requires foundational knowledge in healthcare or economics to fully grasp the complexities discussed
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