Managed care: Challenges to survival and opportunities for change

Many agree that the health care delivery system is in serious trouble. Managed care emerged in response to growing concern over spiraling health care costs without commensurate increases in population health outcomes. However, managed care needs to be evaluated within the historical context of using rationing strategies to distribute health care resources. This paper will explore the impact of managed care on social work practice, including the many challenges faced by practitioners. It will conclude with a discussion of potential opportunities for change in this volatile, health care environment.