The Masterclass in Health Economics, hosted by Cork University Business School in University College Cork took place from the 19th to the 21st of March. This is the fourth successful class, providing early career researchers the opportunity to engage with prominent health economics researchers. Events, similar to this class contribute to UCC's research ethos and strategic plan, by empowering people to create knowledge that shapes a sustainable and inclusive world.
Health Care systems face numerous challenges including the growing need for expanded work capacity. This class enhances knowledge and skills in health economics thereby strengthening capacity and promoting quality health economics training both nationally and internationally. This is imperative as health care systems come under increasing pressure. The demand for care is continuously rising with more new and expensive technologies coming on stream, coupled with the growing expectations of the general public.
These classes provide early career researchers from Ireland, the US, the UK, continental Europe and further afield with insights into work completed by leading health economists. These experts complete pioneering work using and teaching economics to tackle health care issues, while also sharing their expertise with decision makers in government and industry globally. Attendees will be exposed to a comprehensive and in-depth learning experience covering key concepts, best practice and advanced techniques. Professional development opportunities such as "Meeting the editors" will also enhance understanding of the publication process which is crucial for further development and advancement. In addition a session on "Women in economics" regularly features to share their experiences in academia and give insights into how women have been catalysts for change, shaping policies, conducting groundbreaking research, teaching and developing knowledge while driving innovation for a healthier and more equitable world.
Dr Aileen Murphy Senior Lecturer in CUBS says "hosting this event provides an opportunity to develop and increase skills and expertise in the area of health economics to meet the growing needs of health care systems". Prof Ciaran O'Neill of Queens University one of the organizing faculty went on to say " …this is a non-profit event and would not take place without the financial support of our sponsors Medtronic and Pfizer ". Contributors include faculty from UCLA, Cornell, Carnegie Mellon University, University of Wisconsin, UCC, QUB, University of Galway, University of Bristol and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
Dr Ann Kirby is a senior lecturer in the Dept of Economics, UCC speaking at the launch on Tuesday " Today was the opening of the Fourth Masterclass in Health Economics in Lapps Quay, UCC. Delegates were welcomed by Prof John Cryan Vice President for Research & Innovation and Prof Mary McCarthy Vice Dean for Research in CUBS. It is proving to be a very interesting event, opening with Prof Ciaran O’ Neill, Queens University explaining health related quality of life measurements including the EQ5D and Prof John Mullahy, University of Wisconsin explaining how to deal with missing data."