Students and consumers alike will be interested in this unique perspective on the U.S. health care system. It offers not only an historical perspective detailing the origins of our health care system, but also discusses the forces that changed and shaped our system into what it is today. Underlying the comprehensive information on health care costs, finance, access, delivery and reform, is the ethical question of whether health care is a right or a privilege. You'll find real-world stories of health care organizations that must deal with delivery and financing of services, as well as references to web sites for further information. Key features: *Provides both an historical and current perspective on the U.S. health care system *Includes stories of real organizations dealing with delivery and financing of health care *Discusses ethical implications of health care delivery *Includes updated information on health care reform and information technology *Text organized into three primary sections of health care system origins, influences and changes (health care, health system, financial, health care organization)