The economic value of nursing

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Economics
• Nursing Management
• Health Services Research

Background:

• The economic value of nursing services is often viewed from the perspective of the purchaser.
• Understanding these perspectives is crucial for resource allocation and service evaluation in healthcare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a three-level model for classifying purchasers of nursing services.
• To analyze economic and management concepts relevant to the economic value of nursing.
• To examine how these concepts apply to different purchaser perspectives.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of economic and management theories.
• Development of a three-level purchaser model for nursing services.
• Application of the model to evaluate nursing's economic value.

Main Results:

• Identified distinct levels of nursing service purchasers.
• Highlighted key economic factors influencing the perceived value of nursing.
• Demonstrated the applicability of economic concepts to nursing value.

Conclusions:

• The economic value of nursing is contingent on the purchaser's perspective.
• A structured model can aid in understanding and evaluating nursing's economic contribution.
• Further research can refine the economic assessment of nursing services across different markets.