This book provides a multidisciplinary examination of health care systems in a variety of countries. Major concepts, perspectives, and issues are introduced, defined, and used as the basis for analysis. Thirteen countries are described and analyzed in considerable detail along with the demographic, social, and economic characteristics and health care systems of each. The book presents a general model and definition of health care systems, including important factors to consider in understanding health promotion, prevention of disease, and health care. It provides detailed descriptions of diverse health care systems, ranging from centralized and government operated to largely private enterprises, noting the virtues and liabilities of each system.