title: Should the capability approach be applied in health economics?
abstract: This editorial questions the implications of the capability approach for health economics. Two specific issues are considered: the evaluative space of capablities (as opposed to health or utility) and the decision-making principle of maximisation. The paper argues that the capability approach can provide a richer evaluative space enabling improved evaluation of many interventions. It also argues that more thought is needed about the decision-making principles both within the capability approach and within health economics more generally. Specifically, researchers should analyse equity-oriented principles such as equalisation and a 'decent minimum' of capability, rather than presuming that the goal must be the maximisation of capability.
authors.forename: Joanna
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Coast
authors.forename: Richard
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: Paula
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Lorgelly
mesh_terms: D003657:Decision Making; D004470:Economics, Medical; D054625:Healthcare Disparities / Q000191:economics; D006801:Humans; D017059:Models, Econometric