Cost-benefit concepts in health: Examination of some prevention efforts

As expenditures on health continue to increase it becomes important to determine the effectiveness of health care programs. In this paper we outline an approach to evaluating health care programs with particular emphasis on preventive programs. We argue that the most important and most difficult step in the process is assessing the differential impact a measure has on health status. Some specific programs including environmental control, the search for healthful life-styles, and screening programs are briefly considered.