Economists and Health Care: From Reform to Relativism

The first section of this new work is an essay by Professor Fox which documents and offers a personal interpretation of the history of health care economics. The remainder of the volume consists of eleven commentaries on this exposition by a veritable "Who's Who" of medical economists. Most of the commentaries applaud Fox's groundbreaking effort while at least one (by I.S. Falk) takes strenuous exception. Fox's essay deals with contemporary intellectual history and focuses on that interesting juncture between the science of economics and the history of economic thought as applied to health. Fox does a laudable job of documenting the significant landmarks and turning points in health care economics. He attempts to explain the underlying assumptions and prevailing social atmosphere which accompanied these events. It is, therefore, much more than a collection of historical data and should appeal to a wider audience of interested readers. Fox is most thorough when discussing post-war health economics. His coverage of the American Medical Association's role in this arena clearly reflects a great deal of research. The commentaries provide fascinating elucidation of Fox's thesis and are necessary to gain a balanced perspective regarding the health economics movement. Each commentator shares personal perceptions which carry historical value in themselves, since they are made by individuals who have been shapers of the field. Contributions by such authorities as Isidore Falk, Herbert Klarman, and Rashi Fein make this book a reference for future health economists unlike any to be found elsewhere. Although major portions of this volume have appeared in the Millbank Memorial Fund Quarterly, the convenience of this single volume may make it worth the purchase price.