This paper proposes a scheme that speeds up the convergence of Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms in the context of limited-dependent variable models. The algorithm reduces autocorrelations more than the recently proposed Parameter Expansion Data Augumentation (PX-DA) algorithm. In...

We use data on individual patients in general practices to examine whether income related inequality in self reported health differs across general practices and whether such differences are explained by characteristics of the practices. We allow for the simultaneous determination of health and...

We use data from the Health Service Indicators database to compare different methods of measuring the performance of English Family Health Services Authorities (FHSAs) in providing primary care. A variety of regression and data envelopment analysis methods are compared as summary efficiency...

We analyse the demand for and the supply of night visits in primary care. A model of demand management by general practitioners and of their choice between meeting demand by making visits themselves or passing them to commercial deputising services is presented. Demand and supply equations are...

We construct a simple model of the determinants of administrative managerial effort and apply it explain the doubling of the cost of administering primary care in England in real terms between 1989/90 and 1994/5 following the introduction of the internal market. We find that the main cost driver...

This paper is a cross border study that explores isolating the efficiency component and measuring its overall contribution to productivity in the case of out of hours (OOH) primary care services operating on the Island of Ireland. Out of hours GP care is supplied throughout the Island of Ireland...

An innovative and expensive performance-related pay scheme was introduced for general practices across the UK in 2004. It was not piloted and baseline performance data were not collected prior to its introduction. We estimate the impact of this Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) by analysing...