Property rights and efficiency in the care sector. Evidence from Italy

In this paper, we examine the main empirical contributions pertaining to the relationships between productive efficiency and proprietary forms in the care sector. International evidence indicates that non-profit organisations (NPOs) are likely to be less cost-efficient but more attentive to service quality. According to evidence from Italy, however, NPOs are as efficient as other organisations. Moreover, the efficiency of NPOs is positively related to the production of relational goods, highlighting the importance of intrinsic motivation. Finally, we discuss how our survey can contribute to future research and to policy debate on the provision of care services.