Review article
ECONOMIC CRISES AS A MOTIVE FOR CHANGE IN HEALTH CARE SYSTEMS – A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE WITH REFERENCE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Snježana Kaštelan
orcid.org/0000-0002-3983-1157
; School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia / Institute for Eye Diseases and Disorders, Clinical Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Boris Kasun
; Department of Historical and Geographic Sciences and the Ancient World, School of Human and Social Sciences and Cultural Heritage, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
Uršula Kaštelan
; The Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Milena Radonjić
orcid.org/0000-0002-9684-4376
; The Faculty of Economics, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro
Martina Sopta
; The Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Abstract
Economic crises throughout history have often given an impetus for health and social reforms
leading to the introduction of general healthcare systems and social equality in a large
number of countries. The aim of this paper is to present the major economic crises and their
effect on healthcare and social system chronologically. Bismarck’s and Beveridge’s model,
the two most prominent healthcare models, which emerged primarily as a response to major economic crises, constitute the basis for the functioning of most health care systems in the
world.
An overview of historical events and experiences may be valuable in predicting future developments
and potential effects of the crisis on healthcare systems and health in general. An
analysis of past crises as well as current health and economic crisis caused by the COVID-19
pandemic and their impact on the healthcare system can facilitate the comprehension of
the mechanisms of action and consequences of economic recession. It may also help identify
guidelines and changes that might reduce the potential damage caused by future crises.
The historical examples presented show that a crisis could trigger changes, which, in their
essence, are not necessarily negative. The response of society as a whole determines the direction
of these changes, and it is up to society to transform the negative circumstances brought
about by the recession into activities that contribute to general well-being and progress.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
251598
URI
Publication date:
31.12.2020.
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