National health care reform: an aura of inevitability is upon us

Article Abstract:

The United States and South Africa are the only two industrialized nations without a national health policy, and, they are also the only two nations with a substantial group of people who are ethnically different from the controlling group. Blacks and Hispanics are more often unemployed or employed in low-level positions, and therefore not covered by employer-based insurance. Medicaid coverage is lower in states with the highest percentage of blacks, compelling physicians to reject these clients. Medical care is rationed today in seemly irrational ways. Cost control is the major obstacle to reform, and is seen as an even bigger problem than quality control. The reasons for the increases and methods of control are outlined. All 10 of the American Medical Association's scientific journals in May 1991 are focused on the question of national health insurance, in addition to the articles in the May 15, 1991 JAMA. Another 52 articles on the subject are appearing concurrently in the nine specialty journals. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information Inc.)

Planning, Economic aspects, Medical care, Demographic aspects, Health insurance, National health insurance, editorial

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Managed care - a look back and a look ahead

Article Abstract:

Managed care may not be able to provide the kind of health care system that most Americans want. Two-thirds of all employees of medium to large corporations now belong to a managed care plan. However, many Americans are disturbed by reports that plans give physicians bonuses for limiting care and refuse to authorize treatments that patients need. Compared to hospitals, most managed care plans are literally unregulated. This status may not last, however, as Congress and state legislatures pass laws to regulate plans. Physicians are also creating their own organizations to compete with managed care plans.

Forecasts and trends, Managed care plans (Medical care)

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