Trade-offs and COVID-19: What Does Health Economics Have to Say?

Amongst many global challenges exposed by coronavirus and COVID-19 is that of resource scarcity and the consequent need to make trade-offs; especially in health and social care. Yet health economics has been strangely absent from debates and scientific advisory bodies during the pandemic. This paper will explore why that is the case, but, more hopefully, how health economics could and will contribute as we move forward. Issues addressed will range from how we finance and provide health and social care to more-micro and ethical issues associated with testing and ventilation, as Cam reflects on his personal journey, as a health economist, through the pandemic so far.