In the continuing debate on reforming the delivery of health care in this country, it is necessary to address the social and medical management of services provided to those whose special health needs have thus far been inadequately met: the frail elderly, those homebound with chronic illness, and the chronically mentally ill. Existing legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act indicates the timeliness of the Hollingsworths' new book for any future, broader-based health planning.

The present volume anticipates the need for expanded research by presenting a distinguished group of contributors from the United States and Great Britain each of whom specializes in research into the health needs of the three target population groups.

Because most severely and chronically ill people will receive care outside of hospitals or nursing homes, there is increasing recognition that the integration of community-based care, including home care, must be an objective of health policy. Contributors explore the structure of community-based and home care, along with the ways in which services are provided at one or all of the following levels: central government, state or provincial government, local government, and the private sector.

These and related issues, such as funding and standards, are placed in a comparative context.