Résumé :
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Many european countries are years, even decades, ahead of the United States in reforming their health care systems. At first glance, many of the nations appear to have followed similar paths. The three countries examined here are all considered leaders among their peer nations and have gone beyond initial reforms aimed at curbing spending growth to focus on responsiveness to patients and efficiency in use of resources, among other things. However, a closer examination illuminates some key differences, not the least of which is the pace of reform. Also, as the authors of this comparative essay note, "although the vocabulary of reform may be international, terms such as" managed market ", " budgetary incentives ", " purchasers ", and" providers "are interpreted differently in the three countries. " The experiences of the three countries offer lessons for US policymakers, specifically on the role of government in health care, the role of primary care, and the need to hold providers accountable to patients. These issues are central to the ongoing reform debate in the United States. (R.A.).
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