Ukrainian Journal of Veterinary Sciences (Sep 2021)
INTRODUCTION TO THE ECONOMICS OF ANIMAL HEALTH IN UKRAINE
Abstract
The world has long recognized the importance of studying the economic impact of animal health problems on the livestock, the veterinary service and the economic and food safety of the country as a whole. Animal health economics is a branch of the economy and, in particular, the agricultural economy, which applies the principles and methods of economic analysis to animal health problems. It is established that it has already been quite successfully integrated into the veterinary services of developed countries and in the curricula of the leading faculties of veterinary medicine. The article examines the foundation, stages of formation and development of the animal health economy. The main scientific schools and their contribution to the development of animal health economics are highlighted. In Ukraine so far the scale of the animal health economy has been quite modest. The concept was based on disease losses and a cost-benefit analysis of disease control or coping strategies. It is extremely necessary to establish its own scientific school that will take into account the world experience, realities and features of veterinary medicine and animal husbandry and be implemented in modern science and production of Ukraine. In our opinion, the animal health economy in Ukraine should include the following components: economic theory and methods, health economics, economic analysis of diseases, economics of veterinary business. Knowledge of the basics of animal health economics allows the veterinarian to more effectively cover all areas of work from the state veterinary inspector to the doctor at the farm level, to be a real consultant on effective animal husbandry. This knowledge also adds value to private practitioners, making them better prepared to compete in the veterinary services market. Animal health economics should be included in the training program for veterinarians in Ukraine
