Health care reform. Four variables and a theory: an equation for health care.

Writings about health care reform currently appearing in all manner of publications often can confuse, rather than clarify, both problems and solutions. One of the strengths of the study of economics is the ability to summarize complex situations in graphic form, and one of the benefits of management theory is to visualize approaches to problems in a broad and well-organized manner. Three recent articles, when combined, suggest a fresh analysis of the problems demanding health care reform in this nation. They are reviewed here and synthesized into a philosophical view that encourages a more positive approach to solutions for the problems. The first article considers an economic theory with striking applications to health care. The second article suggests one management approach for the future for both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. The third article takes a fresh approach to competition in health care. This review will discuss the economic theory and then apply the management principles to the problem of health care reform confronting the profession and the nation today.