Choices in Health Policy

Governments have long been worried about the rising costs of health care. Virtually, all have taken steps to try and keep costs under control. But it is by no means clear that the types of measures so far taken can solve the problem in the long run. Against this background of massive information about health care and public health in the European Community, this book concentrates on long term alternatives. Is it possible to ration health care and, if so, on what basis? Are there more fundamental ways of keeping costs from rising, which countries are only beginning to develop? What might be the role of the European Union in promoting health and collective action in cost containment? The book has its principal authors from distinguished members of three colleges of London University. They are supported by collaborators from each of the European Union member states.