Which is an example of an economic/fiscal policy instrument?

• A. Regulatory (e.g., tobacco bans)
• B. Informational (e.g., public health campaigns)
• C. Economic/fiscal (e.g., taxes on sugary drinks)
• D. Clinical practice standards (e.g., physician checklists)

Answer: (C)

An economic/fiscal policy instrument uses financial levers to influence behavior and resource use. Taxes on sugary drinks fit this category because they change the price for consumers, aiming to reduce consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and potentially raise revenue for health initiatives. This use of price signals and fiscal impact is the hallmark of economic/fiscal tools, differentiating it from other approaches that rely on regulations, information campaigns, or clinical guidelines rather than financial incentives.