HEALTH-CARE REFORM - THE 1993-1994 EVOLUTION

Health care costs in the United States continue to increase, as does the number of individuals who lack health care coverage. The magnitude of these critical problems assures that health reform of the health care system will continue to be debated over the next decade. Increasing health care costs are associated with increased complexity of services and a greater number of health care providers. As health costs increase and the number of individuals covered by private insurance decreases, states will face increasing pressure to develop effective methods of providing coverage for those without health insurance. Employer mandates will be viewed as one method of extending health coverage. Psychologists must be involved in policy issues so as to ensure the utilization of psychological knowledge and attention to psychological and behavioral health needs.