Budget cutting and privatization: the threat to health

The worldwide drive for budget cutting and privatization, led by the WorldBank and the International Monetary Fund, has led to serious deterioration of health services as well as education, housing, nutrition and other social services in many countries. The model for this policy is the United States, which represents the pinnacle of private enterprise in the health field. The U.S. experience with this model--its effects on preventive and treatment services and health status--is reviewed. The example of the current drive toward privatization in Spain is discussed, and alternative recommendations are made to protect and improve the health of the Spanish public.