The text begins with an introduction to fundamental concepts affecting law and policy. The next chapter considers quality control in the health care setting. The following four chapters examine issues central to structuring integrated systems and the organization of health care institutions. It also covers the problem of health care access and cost control issues, with particular attention paid to the ongoing policy debate about the proper role of government and the nation's responsibilities to provide health care for indigent citizens. Examines legal oversight of private health financing, and looks at Medicare and Medicaid.