Abstract: | The author describes the history of how the employment-based health benefits system has evolved. Specifically, he examines how we got where we are today, the success of managed care, the shortcomings of the managed care system and challenges that the managed care system will face in the future. He concludes that, despite substantial improvements in the quality of medical services provided, employers have a long way to go before they are truly purchasing the highest quality health care at the most efficient prices. |