U.S. Health Policy Groups - (Greenwood Reference Volumes on American Public Policy Format) by Craig Ramsay (Hardcover)

About the Book

This first-of-its kind encyclopedia based on original research offers in-depth profiles showing how a broad spectrum of 121 important nongovernmental organizations in the health field work to affect the development of federal legislation and policy. A brief introduction provides a historical context for current action and an analysis of the various types of groups concerned with health. Arranged A to Z, the entries give the latest information about organizations that provide, consume, finance, and research services and products--employers, insurance companies, those in the health industry itself, labor unions, consumer advocates, public policy and medical research organizations, among others. Each profile gives data about the origin and development of the group, its organization and funding, policy concerns and tactics, electoral activity, and sources for further research. This one-volume reference details group positions on all types of federal health policies, national health care reform proposals, and exemplifies the roles that the organizations have played in historical and contemporary reform efforts. A chronology points to major federal health and health-related legislation, and appendices include the questionnaire that was sent to the groups and a directory of the organizations profiled and of additional organizations that are active in health care. An index also makes the volume user-friendly for students, teachers, policymakers, activists, and all concerned with health care issues today.

Book Synopsis

This first-of-its kind encyclopedia based on original research offers in-depth profiles showing how a broad spectrum of 121 important nongovernmental organizations in the health field work to affect the development of federal legislation and policy. A brief introduction provides a historical context for current action and an analysis of the various types of groups concerned with health. Arranged A to Z, the entries give the latest information about organizations that provide, consume, finance, and research services and products--employers, insurance companies, those in the health industry itself, labor unions, consumer advocates, public policy and medical research organizations, among others. Each profile gives data about the origin and development of the group, its organization and funding, policy concerns and tactics, electoral activity, and sources for further research. This one-volume reference details group positions on all types of federal health policies, national health care reform proposals, and exemplifies the roles that the organizations have played in historical and contemporary reform efforts. A chronology points to major federal health and health-related legislation, and appendices include the questionnaire that was sent to the groups and a directory of the organizations profiled and of additional organizations that are active in health care. An index also makes the volume user-friendly for students, teachers, policymakers, activists, and all concerned with health care issues today.

Review Quotes

?An excellent "road map" to many interest groups that shape US health policy.?-Future Survey

?Its profile of 121 advocacy and support groups will help followers of that renewed debate understand the position of these players. Profiles of these organizations summarize their history and development, describe organization and funding, outline policy concerns and tactics, explain their political activities, and list books and articles for additional information. Increases and simplifies access to information about groups poised for a prominent role in the coming health care reform debate.?-Wilson Library Bulletin

?This book makes an important contribution to medical reference work. ... the information for the groups that are covered is concise, clear, and comprehensive. Since finding this material elsewhere can be a time-consuming process, larger medical and academic libreries with health science programs should obtain this volume.?-ARBA%R

?This work is a useful guide for health administrators, legislators, students, and others seeking information on organizations involved in health policy concerns. It is especially timely in this era of health care debates in the federal arena.?-RQ

"An excellent "road map" to many interest groups that shape US health policy."-Future Survey

"This book makes an important contribution to medical reference work. ... the information for the groups that are covered is concise, clear, and comprehensive. Since finding this material elsewhere can be a time-consuming process, larger medical and academic libreries with health science programs should obtain this volume."-ARBA%R

"This work is a useful guide for health administrators, legislators, students, and others seeking information on organizations involved in health policy concerns. It is especially timely in this era of health care debates in the federal arena."-RQ

"Its profile of 121 advocacy and support groups will help followers of that renewed debate understand the position of these players. Profiles of these organizations summarize their history and development, describe organization and funding, outline policy concerns and tactics, explain their political activities, and list books and articles for additional information. Increases and simplifies access to information about groups poised for a prominent role in the coming health care reform debate."-Wilson Library Bulletin

About the Author

CRAIG RAMSAY, Professor of Politics and Government at Ohio Wesleyan University, has authored journal articles and essays on a variety of political and policy topics. He is currently engaged in a research project that focuses on understanding the similarities and differences in the historical development of the politics of public health insurance in the United States and Canada.