Book Description

During the last few years, components of the health care system in the United States have changed more rapidly than ever before. New industry developments, health insurance changes, and major cost increases have significant implications for both providers and consumers. Changes in the Medicare program on which all other service charges are based, double digit premium increases by managed care companies, the growing number of uninsured, and a nation-wide movement among physicians to set up ambulatory diagnostic, surgical, and other treatment centers in competition with hospitals are changing the structure and operation of the U.S. health care system. The 5th edition contains updated service utilization and financial information as well as updated health care industry trends with the latest developments. All existing tables and charts have been updated and new tables and charts have been added to highlight trends and illustrate major points of the narrative.