This course examines the delivery of health care services within the American health system. Simultaneously, the course adopts a comparative perspective, emphasizing the social, political, and economic influences affecting health systems in other countries. Students learn about the institutions, processes, and participants interacting in healthcare systems, particularly in the United States. The course explores how healthcare professionals, private entities, and public entities collaborate to provide patient care and manage finances. Topics covered are organized into three themes: an overview of healthcare service delivery, major players in healthcare services, and issues in the United States healthcare system.