Health & Veritas Jason Abaluck: Health Economics
Nov 18, 2021
In this engaging conversation, health economist Jason Abaluck from Yale shares insights from his extensive research on health behaviors and policies. He discusses a groundbreaking study revealing that mask usage reduced COVID-19 infections in community settings by about 10%, particularly benefiting the elderly. Abaluck elaborates on the importance of clear research presentation and critiques early mask studies. He also highlights how limiting health insurance options can lead to better decisions, showcasing the economic factors that drive public health initiatives.
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Digital Coffee Study Example
- Harlan described a digital randomized study on coffee using wearables and location-tracking for compliance.
- The trial found coffee increased activity and reduced sleep but did not affect glucose or atrial extra beats.
Low-Cost, High-Impact Mask Logic
- Masks are a low-cost intervention with potentially enormous benefits during a widespread pandemic.
- Even a small chance of effectiveness justifies broad adoption when expected costs of inaction are massive.
Why Earlier Trials Missed Effects
- Prior community mask trials often failed because they didn't directly measure mask wearing and suffered from low compliance.
- Self-reports overstated mask use dramatically, so reliable surveillance is essential to identify effects.