Abstract:

In this study, it is aimed to investigate the effect of public health expenditure on health outcomes. In the scope of the study, the variables of infant mortality rate, maternal mortality rate and life expectancy at birth for the period 2000-2017 of OECD countries were used as health outcomes. Three models created to investigate the effect of health expenditures on infant mortality rate, maternal mortality rate and life expectancy at birth were examined by panel regression analysis. According to the results of the panel regression analysis, 79% of the change in infant mortality rate, 74% of the change in maternal mortality rate and 84% of the change in life expectancy at birth are explained by public health expenditures. Analyzes demonstrate that the increase in public health expenditures in OECD countries decreased infant mortality rate and maternal mortality, while increasing life expectancy at birth. As a result of the study, it is recommended to increase public health expenditures by taking into account principles such as efficiency and effectiveness.

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