Evolution of socioeconomic impact assessments of HIV/AIDS.

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1999. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

Evolution of socioeconomic impact assessments of HIV/AIDS.

AIDS. 1998;12 Suppl 2:S47-55. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE MED/99006847
Forsythe S; Rau B; Policy Unit of AIDSCAP/Family Health International.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The objective of this paper is to describe how and why socioeconomic impact assessments, as applied to HIV/AIDS in developing countries, have evolved over time and to discuss the direction that this field should be taking in the future. DESIGN: This paper involves a review of existing literature and incorporates the experience of AIDSCAP/Family Health International, the AIDS and Economics Network (AEN) and other organizations working in this field. RESULTS: Socioeconomic impact methodologies have become more rigorous over the last 10 years. Concurrently, they have been applied to achieve a new understanding of the impact of AIDS on the economy. The results have been successfully utilized because they are often compelling; to inform, sensitize and mobilize policymakers. At the same time, however, demand is growing for socioeconomic impact assessments to continue to evolve to meet the needs of policymakers in developing countries. CONCLUSION: The tools that have been used in the past for performing socioeconomic impact assessments will have to change significantly to reflect the needs of policymakers for more specific, policy-oriented analyses. Existing economic impact assessments in the field of HIV/AIDS will need to be replaced by more targeted economic research intended to encourage the development of appropriate workplace policies, mitigate the impact of HIV/ AIDS on families, and address critical treatment issues.

Keywords: JOURNAL ARTICLE Anti-HIV Agents/ECONOMICS/THERAPEUTIC USE Cost of Illness Developing Countries Human HIV Infections/DRUG THERAPY/*ECONOMICS *Socioeconomic Factors Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
990228
A9920939

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