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International comparisons: who has the best health system in the world?

In: Research Handbook on Health Care Policy

Author

Listed:
  • Irene Papanicolas
  • Alberto Marino

Abstract

International comparisons of health systems draw broad public attention and can exert major influence on policymakers. When properly conducted, these performance comparisons may comprise a rich source of evidence by showcasing national data with a different frame of reference. However, often league tables comparing health systems produce different rankings and can be difficult to interpret. This chapter seeks to consider in depth the main challenges of health system comparison to better outline why some league tables may sometimes appear to show conflicting results and consider how benchmarking can be used to draw meaningful insights for those interested in what they have to offer. We consider the difficulties in deciding what to compare when creating a league table and how issues of data availability and the choice of indicators and comparators influence league tables. We conclude with a consideration of the future challenges and data gaps that should be addressed to further these efforts.

Suggested Citation

  • Irene Papanicolas & Alberto Marino, 2024. "International comparisons: who has the best health system in the world?," Chapters, in: Martin Powell & Tuba I. Agartan & Daniel Béland (ed.), Research Handbook on Health Care Policy, chapter 16, pages 268-287, Edward Elgar Publishing.
    • Handle: RePEc:elg:eechap:20769_16
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    File URL: https://www.elgaronline.com/doi/10.4337/9781800887565.00020
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