Publisher's Synopsis
The new edition of this successful health services text employs an analytical approach and framework to discuss the history and current practices of the U.S. health care system. Includes new material which focuses on recent developments such as new systems of health care, the competitive health care marketplace, financing services, long-term health care and a modern assessment of medical technology. Text features an interdisciplinary approach and all contributors are well-known authorities in their respective fields. Chapters fall into five sections: overview of the health services system, causes and characteristics of health services use in the United States, providers of health services, resources for health services, assessing and regulating system performance and health care policies and practice.
