The fourth edition illuminates the ethical, practical, and moral elements of how Americans distribute health care resources.  

Includes CourseConnect: Know It. Use It. Test It. – The Smarter Way to Learn and Succeed! 

This textbook offers a comprehensive overview of the U.S. health care system, tracing its historical roots and examining how care is delivered and financed, especially for older adults and individuals with disabilities. It delves into key topics such as social determinants of health, social epidemiology, and the impact of racial inequities on health outcomes. The content is framed through major social justice theories, including Rawlsian, Marxist, Indigenous, and Black feminist perspectives. Contemporary issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving reproductive health policies are used to ground these concepts in real-world application. Know, use, and test your understanding of course content with CourseConnect—an interactive learning platform included with your print purchase. 

What’s New: 

• Revised chapters on justice theory, disability, aging, and health care reform 

• New content on reproductive health policy changes and inequities 

• Updated data on U.S. health financing, delivery, and health disparities 

• Enhanced instructor resources with learning objectives and assignments 

Key Features: 

• Explores U.S. health care systems using case studies, theory, and up-to-date data on equity, access, and public health 

• Equips students with critical thinking and policy analysis skills to address injustice in health care 

• Includes discussion questions, key terms, learning goals, and real-life case studies for student engagement 

• Tina Sacks, Emmeline Chuang, and Angela Perone bring interdisciplinary expertise and a shared commitment to racial, health, and policy equity 

Maximize Your Learning With CourseConnect—Included with Your Print Purchase! Enhance your textbook experience with CourseConnect, an interactive learning platform designed to help you engage more deeply, study smarter, and achieve success in your course. 

• Master Complex Concepts—Interactive learning activities simplify concepts and improve comprehension and retention. 

• Track Your Progress—Real-time analytics and self-assessments help you identify strengths and focus on areas for improvement. 

• Study Anytime, Anywhere—Enjoy seamless access to your eBook and study tools whenever and wherever you need them. 

• Help Whenever You Need It—Course Coach provides answers, summaries, and practice questions to keep you moving forward and build confidence.

Through purchase of this product, you'll get a license to continuous access to this CourseConnect course for as long as you need it, subject to our Terms of Use.