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Economics of childbirth
Michael Fahy1, Orla Doyle, Kevin Denny
1School of Economics and Geary Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
Acta Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica
|February 21, 2013
Summary
Rising birth rates necessitate understanding childbirth costs. Current research lacks a standardized system for comparing delivery modes, hindering economic analysis and policy decisions.
Area of Science:
- Health Economics
- Maternal Health Services Research
Background:
- Increasing birth rates prompt inquiries into the economic implications of childbirth.
- Policy makers and hospital administrators require data on childbirth costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review scientific literature on the economic costs associated with various childbirth delivery methods.
- To identify gaps and limitations in current research regarding childbirth economics.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search across multiple databases including Cochrane, PubMed, and EconLit.
- Inclusion of 30 relevant articles for the review.
- Analysis focused on economic evaluations and clinical outcomes of different delivery modes.
Main Results:
- No universally accepted classification system exists for childbirth costs and clinical outcomes.
- Inability to conduct reliable comparisons of costs across different childbirth delivery modes.
- Significant deficiencies identified in the existing body of scientific research.
Conclusions:
- A standardized classification system for childbirth costs and clinical outcomes is essential.
- Improved understanding and classification are needed for valid comparisons between maternity units.
- Informed policy and management decisions require better economic data on childbirth.
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