Testing Option B+: Measuring the Impact of Perceived Clinic Access on Human Capital Investment in Malawi

Authors

Annalivia J. Robinson, Macalester College

Document Type

Honors Project - Open Access

Abstract

From 1985 to the current day, the HIV/AIDS epidemic has been responsible for increasing mortality and morbidity rates amongst Malawi citizens. In addition to causing negative health and economic shocks to adults living with HIV/AIDS, this virus reduces capital available for families' educational investments. Providing subsidized antiretroviral treatment (ART) has potential consequences for human capital investment and economic growth. Using data from 2010 and 2015/16 Demographic Health Surveys for Malawi, I estimate the effect of increased ART services and perceived access changes on educational outcomes of children living in HIV+ homes. I find that children belonging to households with an HIV+ male adult, with perceived access to clinics, are significantly more likely to have reached secondary school than similar households without access. These findings add to previous research which finds that increased access to free ART has long term positive effects on human capital investment.

Recommended Citation

Robinson, Annalivia J., "Testing Option B+: Measuring the Impact of Perceived Clinic Access on Human Capital Investment in Malawi" (2018). Economics Honors Projects. 88.
https://digitalcommons.macalester.edu/economics_honors_projects/88