Covering the basic structures and operations of the U.S. health system, Essentials of the U.S. Health Care System is a clear and concise distillation of the important topics covered in Delivering Health Care in America by the same authors. Ideal for courses in health policy, allied health, health administration and more, this comprehensive revision clarifies the complexities of health care organization and finance and presents a solid overview of how the various components fit together. The Second Edition has been thoroughly updated with all new data, charts, and tables throughout. New content includes: Medicare, Medicaid and SCHIP. Ongoing evolution in U.S. health care as a result of corporatization and globalization; The role of hospitalists; Updated content on Parts C and D of Medicare. including information on high-deductible health plans/health savings accounts as an insurance option; Updated content on primary care and community oriented health care development; Current development on hospital extensions to the community; Current development on nano technology; Current health policy issues; Current discussion on healthcare reforms, including future challenges posed by the increased need for long-term care.