COST / POLITICS (C/P)
Some of the most important developments in health policy occur when
there
is a shift in the (for further information) nature of the politics:
e.g.
when the resolution of air pollution issues move (A) from legislative
committees
and bureaus primarily influenced by the industries affected ("client
politics")
or by behind the scenes negotiations between the industries and
organized
environmental groups ("interest group politics") (B) to public arenas,
led
there by events and/or a political "entrepreneur."
Changes, say over the past four decades, in the structure and the costs
of
the health care system have changed the relative bargaining positions
and
political power of health care professionals, provider institutions,
and
payers.