Medical care is viewed as an investment good, as contrasted with a consumption good. Numerous studies are cited which support the overall contention that improved health affects productivity through its effects on a person's education. The number of school days lost and the number of school dropouts which result from poor health are considered in terms of the ultimate economic loss to the person and to the nation. The value of productivity losses is associated with reduced educational attainment. The authors encourage further efforts to separate the several relationships which they suggest. (TL)