Contemporary Issues in Health and Social Care Policy and Practice: A Comparative Introduction

This accessible text presents a comparative analysis of health and social care policy and practice from around the world, with learning points drawn out for the UK. It supports readers to improve practice by reflecting on differences and similarities in the policies of other OECD countries.

Divided into two parts, the book opens with a focus on core concepts in health and social care policy and practice such as service user involvement, the promotion of well-being, health inequalities, funding, and integrated care. The differing philosophical, socio-political, and historical perspectives that underpin these key areas in different countries are explored, in order to develop a greater understanding of the UK system. The second part of the book takes a close look at a range of specific contemporary issues, such as end-of-life care, long-term conditions, homelessness, refugee and migrant health, disability, domestic abuse, substance use, and women in prison. These in-depth case study chapters enable readers to identify best practices and challenges in relation to specific areas of health and social care policy and practice.

Ideal for undergraduate students studying health and social care policy from a range of disciplinary backgrounds, this practical text provides a deeper understanding of complex health and social care issues, and supports the development of a global and comparative skill set.