Handbook for the Economic Analysis of Health Sector Projects

Abstract

Development of the health sectors within the developing member countries (DMCs) is consistent with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) major goal of social and economic progress of member countries. Because health and physical well being are essential to the formation and maintenance of human capital, success in the health sector is inextricably linked to ADB's strategic objectives of economic growth, poverty alleviation, human resource development, and improved status of women. Nevertheless, careful consideration must be taken as to which potential health projects are undertaken and which members of the DMCs' populations will be the ultimate beneficiaries. Public interventions in health and other sectors should be as efficient as possible, maximizing benefits and minimizing costs. Economic analysis of projects has an important role in achieving these objectives.