Dr. Mara Violato

Biography

Mara Violato is a Professor at the University of Oxford in the Medical Sciences Division, specializing in Health Economics. Her research addresses economic-driven inequalities in health outcomes and healthcare utilization through statistical econometric analysis of large, complex observational survey data integrated with routine healthcare datasets. This research aims to inform clinical practices and policies to mitigate inequities in health and to evaluate the economic impact of health treatments and delivery models, particularly in light of the growing financial demands on healthcare systems. Mara has a particular focus on behavioral economics and has led research into the economics of mental health, especially concerning childhood anxiety, and conducts cost-effectiveness analysis alongside clinical randomized controlled trials. Her research also encompasses the economics of gastrointestinal diseases, vaccine uptake, child health inequalities, and healthcare utilization costs influenced by factors such as ethnicity. She is involved in teaching short courses in health economics and supervises graduate students. Mara has previously worked as a research assistant and teaching fellow in Economics at the University of Dundee and holds degrees from prominent institutions including a degree in Economics from Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, an MSc from the University of Glasgow, and a PhD from the University of Dundee.

Research Interests