Professional Diploma in Health Economics (CME/CPD Approved)

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The Programme

The Professional Diploma in Health Economics – the first course of its kind in Ireland – is a one-year, part-time programme that examines the economics of healthcare provision. There is a palpable need for those interested in healthcare in Ireland to understand the economic rationale behind the allocation of resources in this vital sector. To meet this need, the Diploma explores the fundamentals of economics, the distinctive features of healthcare economics and the different mechanisms for evaluating spending on healthcare.

Expressly designed for those who want to obtain a nationally recognised qualification while remaining in work, the Diploma is delivered through a blend of distance education and weekend seminars at the IPA in Dublin. Alongside course material, students receive all the essential textbooks.

Is This Programme for you?

How to provide good-quality healthcare in the most efficient manner remains a source of contentious debate around the world. This programme will be of great benefit to anyone working in healthcare provision in Ireland. No prior knowledge of economics is presumed.

Students of this programme are very often: 

• Front-line medical staff 
• Employees of pharmaceutical companies 
• Healthcare administrators from the public and private sectors

Subjects

The Fundamentals of Applied Economics

This module seeks to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of the central principles of applied economics. Equipped with this knowledge, students will be able to properly comprehend the policy choices available in the allocation of resources to healthcare. Among the topics addressed are supply and demand, the role of the market, consumer behaviour, competition and generating profit.

Health Economics

This module builds on the knowledge that students gained in Module 1 by examining the distinctive features of healthcare economics. Students will learn about the particular economic issues that are integral to this sector. Among the topics addressed are the demand for healthcare, how healthcare is paid for, the role of insurers, the regulation of healthcare professionals and public vs. private provision of healthcare.

An Introduction to Healthcare Evaluation Techniques

This module addresses the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare interventions. Students will address the techniques that have been advanced to evaluate healthcare spending. Among the topics addressed are how to measure effectiveness in healthcare, cost-benefit analysis, cost of illness studies and cost minimisation analysis.

Assessment

The programme is assessed through written assignments and final examiantions. 

Prospectus

Undergraduate Prospectus 2018 / 2019

Full details of IPA undergraduate programmes are also available in our prospectus, which can be viewed or downloaded here.

Click here for Application Form

View Undergraduate Prospectus