Beyond Managed Care: How Consumers and Technology are Changing the Future of Health Care

AORN Journal,  Feb, 2005  by Laurie Saletnik

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Beyond Managed Care: How Consumers and Technology are Changing the Future of Health Care Dean C. Coddington et al 2000, 335 pp $55 hardcover

This book provides an in-depth view of the current health care system, a review of the significant factors that have contributed to shaping the industry, and potential health care scenarios for the twenty-first century. The authors focus on marketplace dynamics with the intent of generating thoughtful forecasting of health care's future. It is clear that choices made today will affect the viability of the health care system in the future.

The authors present their material in a positive manner, recognizing the potential opportunities that exist in this environment. Their research is extensive and includes a number of focus groups, interviews with health care leaders, and an extensive literature review. A consistent theme throughout the book is the movement toward patient-managed care as a result of growing technology and consumers' access to the Internet. These factors will change the way health care is delivered in this country in the future.

Four potential scenarios are presented; in actuality, the future most likely will hold a blend of the components of each of these scenarios. The book was published in the year 2000 and addresses changes that are likely to occur within the first five years of the millennium. Now, in early 2005, it is easy for readers to assess the accuracy of some of these predictions.

The book is comprehensive on the topic of health care today. The flow of content is well organized and various charts and graphs reinforce the content of the chapters. The book is clear and readable, but readers will require time to reflect on the information presented. The book will be of value to individuals who are involved in decision making that may affect the future of the health care marketplace, as well as individuals who are interested in a comprehensive look at the future of health care.

This book is available from Jossey-Bass Publishers, 350 Sansome St, San Francisco, CA 94104.

LAURIE SALETNIK RN, BSN

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF NURSING

JOHNS HOPKINS HOSPITAL

BALTIMORE

COPYRIGHT 2005 Association of Operating Room Nurses, Inc.
COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group