Publication: THE IMPACTS OF HEALTH EXPENDITURES AND ECONOMIC GROWTH ON HEALTH OUTCOMES: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM ASEAN COUNTRIES
Date
2024
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IMU University
Abstract
This study examines the relationship between health expenditures, economic growth, and health outcomes in ASEAN region. It specifically looks at the impact on life expectancy and infant mortality rates. Using annual dataset from 2000 to 2021 taken from the World Development Index by World Bank, the study applies econometric technique panel ARDL and Dumitrescu-Hurlin causality tests. The findings reveal a significant positive association between public and private health expenditures with life expectancy in the long term, emphasizing the critical role of government spending in improving health outcomes, with the complementing support of the private sectors. However, the mixed impacts of public health expenditure on infant mortality rates suggest potential inefficiencies and mis-allocations in health spending. There is a clear link between economic growth with increased life expectancy and infant mortality reduction, which highlights the importance of sustained economic development for better health outcomes. The study also identifies bidirectional causality between GDP per capita and life expectancy. In order to achieve significant improvements in population health, it is crucial to make strategic health investments. Policy implications include the need for targeted policies to address healthcare financing and service delivery disparities in ASEAN countries. Governments should effectively allocate health expenditure to ensure equitable access to healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations. Future research should focus on examining the impact of health interventions and policies, by including other health indicators and factors to gain more comprehensive view into the progress of UHC and to identify best practices.
Keywords: health expenditure, economic growth, health outcome, ASEAN
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Keywords
Health Expenditures, Economic Development, Life Expectancy, Mortality, Infant