The Power Shift in Health Policy: Lessons from Antitrust and Climate Policy

The political economy approach to health policy is gaining traction. This method focuses on the power dynamics and the broader political, social, and economic environment that either boosts or hinders health. However, it faces a significant challenge. The current policy focus is mainly on making sure everyone can access the existing healthcare system. This is a big hurdle for those pushing for a political economy approach. To overcome this, it's useful to look at other areas where this approach has made a real difference. Take antitrust and climate policy, for example. Both have seen some surprising successes recently. These successes can offer valuable insights for health policy. Advocates for a political economy approach in health should keep pushing the care economy movement. At the same time, they should find ways to link healthcare market reforms with changes in industrial policy and antitrust laws. In both antitrust and climate policy, building strong issue networks has been key. Connecting with historically resonant political themes has also helped. Where possible, tapping into the energy of youth organizers has made a big difference. These strategies could be just as effective in health policy. The care economy movement has some momentum, but it hasn't led to major policy changes yet. By learning from other areas, advocates can find new ways to push for change. Health policy is complex. It's influenced by a mix of political, social, and economic factors. A political economy approach recognizes this complexity. It looks at the bigger picture and considers how power dynamics shape health outcomes. This approach can help address some of the deep-rooted issues in the healthcare system. But it needs to build on existing momentum and learn from other successful policy movements. For instance, the antitrust movement has shown that challenging concentrated power can lead to real change. The climate policy movement has demonstrated the importance of building broad coalitions and connecting with powerful political themes. These lessons can be applied to health policy. By doing so, advocates can find new ways to push for a more equitable and effective healthcare system. It's not just about access to healthcare. It's about addressing the broader factors that influence health.