Especialización y eficiencia en el sistema hospitalario español
ISSN: 0210-2633, 2340-9037
Year of publication: 2004
Issue: 67
Pages: 27-48
Type: Article
More publications in: Cuadernos económicos de ICE
Abstract
This study analyses the relationship between degree of specialisation, defined on the grounds of six different criteria, and the level of technical efficiency in Spanish hospitals. The efficiency rates are calculated by applying DEA techniques to a series of key variables and factors that summarise all the relevant information provided by a wider range of variables. The analysis reveals that specialisation in out-patient care, intensive care, emergency care or paediatrics contributes to increasing a hospital¿s efficiency rating. The regional government under which the hospital operates, a focus on public health and the relative size of the hospital are also shown to affect the rating.