Document Type

Thesis

Publication Date

1997

Disciplines

Economics | Political Science

Advisor

Charles Rambeck; James Murphy

Abstract

My thesis investigated the implications associated with the increasing numbers of investor-owned hospitals in America's hospital market. Traditionally, most hospitals have been non-profit, and I wanted to analyze whether the drive for profits would compromise the care that hospitals provide to their patients. I studied the differences and similarities between non-profit and for-profit ownership types in three key areas: quality, access, and efficiency. I discovered through my research that the differences between the two ownership types are becoming increasingly difficult to identify. I concluded that for-profit hospitals have created a more competitive environment, and this increased competition will help keep the rising costs of health care under control.

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