The Market Structure of the Health Insurance Industry

Austin, D. A. ; Hungerford, Thomas L.

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service.

关键词: Health insurance;    Health care reform;    Health care industry;    Industrial organization;    History;   

RP-ID  :  R40834
RP-ID  :  R40834_2009Nov17

美国|英语

来源: UNT Digital Library

【 摘 要 】

This report discusses whether or not the current health insurance market structure hinders the U.S. health system's ability to reach the policy goals of expanding health insurance coverage and containing health care costs. The report describes the forces that have shaped the health insurance industry. Reasons for high market concentration are discussed, along with profitability measures for the industry. Finally, options for Congress regarding the health insurance industry are analyzed.