Women’s Health Economics: Investing in the 51 per cent

education||0public-policy||0
Practice area: Education and Labour Markets | Public Policy
Client: N/A
Published: 02 October, 2023
Keywords: health economics Labour Market Economics Public Policy women’s health

London Economics was commissioned by the NHS Confederation to conduct the data analysis and econometric modelling for a report on women’s health economics in the UK.

The study found that for every additional £1 of public investment in obstetrics and gynaecology services per woman in England, there is an estimated return on investment of £11. If an additional £1 per woman in England were invested in these services, the economy could benefit from an additional £319 million in total gross value added (GVA).

The analysis comprised of three key pillars: how gynaecological conditions impact labour market outcomes, the potential return on investment from enhancing obstetrics and gynaecology services in England, and the stark health inequalities women face nationwide.

The findings highlight the urgent need to invest in women’s health services. While upfront funding is necessary to tackle these inequalities, the cost is small compared to the rising financial burden on the NHS and society from neglecting the health of 51% of the population.

The full report can be found here.