Richard A. Hirth

Richard A. Hirth serves as the S.J. Axelrod Collegiate Professor of Health Management and Policy at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. He also holds a professorship in the Department of Internal Medicine and serves as Associate Director of the Kidney Epidemiology and Cost Center. His academic work bridges economic theory with practical healthcare policy applications.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Economics, University of Pennsylvania, 1993
• MA in Economics, University of Pennsylvania, 1988
• BA (Summa Cum Laude) in Economics, Carleton College, 1987

Hirth's research focuses on the economic aspects of healthcare delivery, particularly the economics of end stage renal disease care, health insurance design and healthcare spending patterns, the role of not-for-profit providers in healthcare markets, and long-term care systems. His work has directly influenced Medicare's payment system for kidney dialysis, demonstrating the real-world impact of his research on healthcare policy.

His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on healthcare financing, provider incentives, and the economic consequences of healthcare policies. His work spans multiple healthcare settings including nursing homes, kidney dialysis centers, and general healthcare markets, with particular attention to how payment structures influence provider behavior and patient outcomes.

His notable recognitions include:

• AcademyHealth Health Services Research Impact Award
• International Health Economics Association's Kenneth J. Arrow Award in Health Economics
• University of Michigan School of Public Health Excellence in Research Award
• Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan Foundation's Excellence in Research Award in Health Policy
• Thompson Prize for Young Investigators from the Association of University Programs in Health Administration

Hirth teaches several key courses including HMP613: Climate Change And The Healthcare System, HMP660: Economics Of Health Management And Policy I, HMP681: Special Topics In Health Management And Policy, and HMP806: Doctoral Seminar in Health Services and Systems Research IV. His teaching connects economic principles with healthcare management challenges, preparing students to analyze complex health policy issues through an economic lens.

As Associate Director of the Kidney Epidemiology and Cost Center, Hirth works within a specialized research unit focused on kidney disease epidemiology and economic analysis, contributing to evidence-based policy development in this critical healthcare domain.