For introductory courses in Public Health and US Health System/Health Policy intended for community college students and lower-division four-year students enrolled in allied health programs.   An engaging, easy-to-follow introduction to US health care The United States Health Care System: Combining Business, Health, and Delivery, is the most readable, student-friendly overview of the US healthcare system. Written simply and informally, it focuses on breadth rather than non-essential depth, giving even inexperienced students the knowledge they need to succeed. The unique approach illuminates the realities of the business side of healthcare as well as the practicalities of the delivery of healthcare. It addresses these questions: "What is this business called healthcare?" "How do we pay for healthcare?" "Who provides healthcare?" "Where and how is healthcare provided?" and "What else is included?" as well as related issues ranging from pharmaceuticals to research and prevention. To provide readers with the most up-to-date information, the Third Edition encompasses the many changes that have occurred both in healthcare and in the United States since the last edition was published.