UCL Health Economics Policy Lab Launch

The UCL Health Economics Policy Lab (HEPL), hosted by the Faculty of Population and Health Sciences was launched in January 2024. Directed by Prof Rachael Hunter and Dr Neha Batura, the HEPL builds a cohesive community of health economists currently scattered across different departments of the university, at the Institute for Epidemiology and Healthcare, the Institute for Global Health, Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, the Global Business School for Health, the Department of Economics, and the Department of Statistical Sciences, among others. The HEPL covers the full breadth of the discipline, comprising six specialist clusters: economic evaluation and HTA; impact evaluation; health econometrics; health financing; equitable health systems; and economic development and health. It builds on the range of existing expertise in the economics of health and health care across UCL, thereby offering the greatest potential for impact in research and teaching. 

The launch proved popular, with a sold out, full house on the day. The presentations showcased the wide range of research and educational initiatives in health economics across the Faculty of Population and Health Sciences. A panel on the role of health economics in addressing inequalities provided new and innovative ways of thinking about how we might address the issue. The event stimulated lively and engaged discussion at the networking reception that followed. 

The aim of HEPL going forward is to break down the barriers that prevent governments and communities from benefiting from the high-quality health economics research at UCL. We encourage new collaborations to foster innovative perspectives in our research and teaching. By working together with academic and non-academic collaborators, we hope to have a real and wider impact on the health and well-being of all individuals. 

To sign up to the mailing list for HEPL news and events, please email hepl@ucl.ac.uk.