This book is a joint venture by 13 scholars, and is a systematic and exhaustive study of a crucial problem. The nature of poverty and the social aspects of health and illness place health and welfare in a sociological framework. In this book the many ramifications of the poverty-health complex are examined and analyzed. Two chapters assess current efforts to ensure medical care to all segments of the population. An appendix sums up methodological problems of obtaining reliable health data on different social classes. The authors conclude by describing the critical health deficit characteristic of the American poor and present a concrete plan for nationwide organization of health services. Each chapter is based on a data summary and critical evaluation of previous research and demonstration work. (Editors/DM)