This book is concerned with the health care delivery system in the United States and the use of that system by the consumer. It is intended to help the consumer identify, understand, and utilize those components of the health care system that are considered legitimate, nonlife threatening, and productive in terms of promoting health and in reducing pain and suffering. Also, this book deals with health quackery, those health services and products that have no scientific foundation and that are rarely productive in the maintenance or restoration of health status. The text itself is divided into three general areas. Presented first is a discussion of the parameters of health and disease, why consumers behave as they do, the economic costs of the health care system, steps that the consumer can take to prevent health problems from occurring initially, and the utilization of health services. Secondly, a discussion of questionable health practices, health practitioners, and health products, and how the consumer can protect himself as well as others is offered to help sensitize the consumer's skepticism about products and services. The third area focuses on changes that may be forthcoming in the health care delivery system and provides some help for those who are interested in and have responsibility for consumer health education. (SK)