International Health Care Systems: Models, Components, and Goals

Abstract

United Nations declares adequate health and well-being as a fundamental human right. Hence, everyone is entitled to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health. This chapter will examine health care systems and models around the world by identifying the key characteristics of quality health care delivery and will provide an overview of the WHO building blocks (components) of health care systems as well as health care systems goals.

Although each country has its own health care system in place, they mostly follow four models, which are the Beveridge model (public service), the Bismarck model, the National Health Insurance model, and the out-of-pocket model, either as stand-alone or in combination. Since there is no perfect health care system, every country faces different challenges when attempting to construct a system for health care delivery. Thus, this chapter explores challenges faced by health care systems in both developed and developing countries, as well as opportunities and mechanisms to improve and sustain quality health care delivery.