ABSTRACT
This chapter identifies a number of common themes that were developed by many of the authors and discussants. It examines some of the implications for policy that flow from them. A closely related theme is the tension between a constantly expanding technology and the narrowing margins for effectiveness in an increasing aged population. Medicine is characterized by uncertainty with respect to diagnosis, therapy, and outcome. The most skilled physician can never be sure that the treatment that he recommends will yield a net benefit to the patient in terms of relief from pain, amelioration, or cure. The physician is held in high esteem; his capacity to diagnose and treat is viewed as a public good and our democratic value system has led to a consensus that all citizens must have access to a physician, particularly when they will benefit from essential health care.
