The U.S. Health System: Origins and Functions

Camille K. Barsukiewicz, Ph.D., is a professor in the School of Urban Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Memphis in Tennessee. Marshall W. Raffel, Ph.D., is a professor emeritus of health policy and administration at The Pennsylvania State University in University Park, Pennsylvania. Harry D. Holt, Ph.D., is recognized for his research on identifying factors that influence the financial performance and profitability of hospitals and health systems. He has also focused on the role of integrated public health teams in delivering Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) to urban and rural populations. Dr. Holt has studied the unique challenges faced by rural patients and the stigma that is a barrier for them to receive treatment. This work has identified opportunities for interprofessional teams to implement best practices in MAT services. The results of this work have influenced policy makers who make reimbursement decisions and health systems as they develop MAT services for their patients. As coordinator of the health care management track in the masters of public health program at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Holt has mentored underrepresented students as they develop skills in public health. Upon graduation, many of these students have led interprofessional teams and served as administers for state and local providers. These providers deliver opioid use disorder treatment services and other critical public health services to underrepresented populations. Dr. Holt is a graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania with degrees in economics, political science and pre-law. He also graduated from Case Western Reserve University with juris doctorate (J.D.) and an M.B.A. with a focus in health systems management. Dr. Holt earned his Ph.D. in health policy and administration from Pennsylvania State University.

1. Introduction.
2. Health Care Costs.
3. Paying for Health Care Services.
4. Health Status and Health Care Utilization.
5. Medical Education.
6. Professions in Health Care.
7. Ambulatory Care.
8. Hospitals.
9. Mental Health Services.
10. Long-Term Care.
11. Public Health - The Health of the Community.
12. Information Management Systems.
13. Current Issues in Health Care Delivery.