Managed health care has changed the way health services are provided and paid for. It is still evolving. Many pharmacists have already felt the impact of these changes. This continuing feature illuminates the many facets of managed care with special emphasis placed on how these changes may affect pharmacists working in health systems. The expertise provided by pharmacists will be needed to fulfill the potential of affordable, comprehensive, and quality health care as promised by managed care. Pharmacists must understand what is happening, why it is happening, and what is likely to happen in the future. To be an active and effective player, you must understand what is happening on the field.
National Center for Health Statistics. Infant mortality rates, fetal mortality rates, and perinatal mortality rates, according to race: United States, selected years 1950-97. Available online: http//www.nchs.gov.
RubinR.Clinical and economic impact of a comprehensive diabetes disease management program. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.1998; 83(8). Available online: www.lewin.com/library.
