Description: This title was first published in 2001. This original study of mental health care presents a conceptual approach to the nature of the industry's multiple outputs.
Review Quotes: 'This book is one of the first attempts to apply the techniques of economic theory to the analysis of issues in mental health care. The authors show that the pervasiveness of non-rational behaviour in this complex area is no bar to the usefulness of economic analysis, sensitively applied. The book is recommended reading for health economists, students of economics and interested health professionals.' Jonathan Baldry, Associate Professor of Economics, University of New England, Australia 'Ruth Williams and Darrel Doessel analyse and clarify aspects of eocnomic behaviour and policy arising from mental illness and disorders...the book takes an economistic approach, drawing on a great many references and examples...' Pharma Pricing & Reimbursement 'As a mental health professional I applaud the authors' attempt to widen the debate in this clearly neglected area.' Health Matters 'The contribution this book makes to the economic literature is to provide the first integrated economic conception and discussion of the mental health industry. The book constitutes not only an illuminating application of welfare economics, but is also a valuable contribution to the literature in public economics, as applied to the health sector...For policy-makers and researchers concerned with this sector of the economy, this book is compelling reading. More generally, this book provides convenient synopses of recent developments in microeconomics and public economics. Readers who are interested in these fields will enjoy reading this book.' Economy Analysis & Policy