Has managed care failed? The answer is: yes and no

The managed care industry initially seemed to bring health care cost in line with general inflation and growth in the economy. More recently, it has failed to do so. This article discusses the background and the trends that have affected managed care's ability to provide high-quality, affordable and accessible care. In many cases, savings have come principally from pricing and contracting strategies rather than a revamping of the delivery of care. Presented are options to provide more efficient and cost-effective care based on actual models.