Reference no: EM133328990

Background-

Given the limited resources available for public health activities, challenging questions arise about the scope and priorities of government public health policy. It can be quite challenging for health officials to make decisions about which particular public health goals to pursue and what resources and activities should be dedicated towards their achievement. Additionally, public health seeks evidence of effective outcomes in order to justify which decision should be made. Sometimes this comes in the form of a cost-benefit analysis. One such measure commonly used considers the relative costs of an intervention compared to quality-adjusted life-years (QALY) saved.

QALY however, is not to be confused with simply adding years to one's life expectancy, and comes with its own controversies. For example, some claim that a QALY approach can lead to unjust social distribution, as it is calculated based-upon the capacity to benefit, rather than actual need. For instance, two populations with similar cancer rates may be competing for federal funding to implement a health promotion project that has been proven to lower cancer incidence. One population also has a high rate of disability, while the other does not. The QALY approach in this case would favor the healthier population, as they would have the best potential for an increased "quality" of life. Therefore, a question of social justice and equity may be raised.

Instructions-

For this assignment, I would like the following-

Report on potential issues (ethical, political, legal, and/or economic) concerning the use of QALY's as a measure of evidence in public health practice and/or medical delivery (Do this with respect to your previously chosen ethical issue--only if appropriate).

Your report should explore real life situations whenever possible.

Include discussion regarding ethical theories/principles--such as social justice and equity.