The June issue of Health Affairs, a variety issue, includes articles examining how health care markets function, both in the United States and elsewhere.
One of the studies in the issue is by Zachary Wagner of the University of California, Berkeley, and coauthors, titled "PEPFAR Funding Associated With An Increase In Employment Among Males In Ten Sub-Saharan African Countries." It examines the economic impact of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief--or PEPFAR--in sub-Saharan Africa. PEPFAR has provided over 6.7 million people infected with HIV access to antiretroviral therapy, yielding significant health improvements. The authors looked at PEPFAR's less-studied economic impact, and identified a 13 percent increase in male employment in countries the program assisted, although they found no change in female employment. According to the authors, the rise in employment generates economic benefits equal to half of PEPFAR's cost. They recommend considering these findings when making future aid allocation decisions.
Also of interest in the issue:
A Public-Private Partnership Improves Clinical Performance In A Hospital Network In Lesotho;
Nathalie McIntosh of the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System and coauthors
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If you would like to access the studies or speak with a study author, please contact Amy Martin Vogt at 202-745-5052 or amartinvogt@gymr.com.
Health Affairs is the leading journal at the intersection of health, health care, and policy. Published by Project HOPE, the peer-reviewed journal appears each month in print, with additional Web First papers and health policy briefs published regularly at http://www.healthaffairs.org. You can also find the journal on Facebook and Twitter. Read daily perspectives on Health Affairs Blog. Download monthly Narrative Matters podcasts on iTunes. Tap into Health Affairs content with the iPad app.
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