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Στέφας, Δημήτριος

Health policy and expenditures : transformations in the financing mix

Master Thesis

Author

Στέφας, Δημήτριος

Date

2025

Abstract

This Master’s thesis explores health policy, healthcare expenditures, and the changing mix of financing in health systems, with a particular focus on Greece and comparative insights from European Union and OECD countries. The aim of the study is to investigate the mechanisms that shape the financing of healthcare, to assess the impact of expenditures on the quality and efficiency of health services, and to analyze the institutional reforms introduced before and after the economic crisis. The methodology is based on an extensive literature review, the framework of the System of Health Accounts (SHA), and the analysis of data from international databases (OECD Health Statistics, WHO GHE Database, Eurostat). Different financing models—such as fee-for-service, capitation, global budgets, and Diagnosis Related Groups (DRGs)—are examined in order to evaluate their effectiveness in balancing cost and quality. The findings highlight the growing pressure on public health expenditures due to demographic and social factors (population ageing, rising demand for care, technological advancements), as well as the limitations of traditional financing mechanisms. Special emphasis is placed on the role of DRGs, which promote greater transparency and efficiency compared to other models, despite challenges in their implementation. Overall, the thesis concludes that the evolution of the financing mix in Greece and internationally is a critical determinant for the sustainability and equity of health systems. Strengthening evaluation mechanisms, adopting best practices, and continuously adapting health policies are essential conditions to address emerging challenges and to safeguard equitable access and high-quality care.

Postgraduate Studies Programme

Οικονομικά και Διοίκηση της Υγείας

Department

Σχολή Οικονομικών, Επιχειρηματικών και Διεθνών Σπουδών. Τμήμα Οικονομικής Επιστήμης

Number of pages

Language

Greek

URI

https://dione.lib.unipi.gr/xmlui/handle/unipi/18374

Collections

Τμήμα Οικονομικής Επιστήμης

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Αναφορά Δημιουργού-Όχι Παράγωγα Έργα 3.0 Ελλάδα