ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book. The book explores how to improve the quality and cost of health and social care for all by empowering consumers with real choices and the power to make these effective, and enabling medical professionals to function well. It considers in detail the three critical factors: individual financial empowerment and control; consumer choice of both purchaser and provider; and the fullest publication of audited information which will enable transparent comparisons to be made and choices to be fully informed. The book explores the challenge of cultural change – and of permission to change – which is a fundamental focus and a fearsome problem. It addresses a series of interlinked questions which illuminate the critical issues. The book suggests that there is significant potential to improve quality, increase productivity, and reduce costs while enabling better access and equity, too.
