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The weighting of an international health status index

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Abstract

The major purpose of this paper is to suggest possible weights for a global index of health status. The indicators for the global index are taken from the World Health Organization's definition of health as physical, mental and social well-being. These indicators are combined with mortality indicators to arrive at a finalized index. Survey methodology is used to make initial estimates of the weighting of appropriate indicators, based upon a sample of international health scholars. Preliminary results indicate that mortality is weighted 40%, physical health (morbidity and disability) 25%, mental health 15%, and social health 20%. These results are intended as a starting point for future research.

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Larson, J.S. The weighting of an international health status index. Soc Indic Res 31, 265–275 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01078210

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