This title gives readers a balanced look at the issue of health care reform in the United States and the surrounding arguments. A historic overview of the U.S. health care system is introduced, including Medicare, Medicaid, and HMOs. Also covered are economic concerns and political aspects, including President Obama's latest plans for improvement. Additionally, the Canadian health care system is compared with the U.S. system. Color photos and informative sidebars accompany easy-to-follow text. Features include a timeline, facts, additional resources, web sites, a glossary, a bibliography, and an index. Essential Viewpoints is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.