title: The social nature of chronic disease and disability.
abstract: Recent epidemiologic data on the changing scope and distribution of chronic illness and disability in the United States is analyzed in terms of medical, social, and economic costs. Research findings regarding current gaps in health and social service delivery systems for patients and their families are reviewed. Implications and recommendations for public policy and program changes are discussed, including practice directions for social workers.
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000367:Age Factors; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000191:economics / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000523:psychology; D005190:Family; D006291:Health Policy; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand / Q000191:economics*; D006302:Health Services Research / Q000191:economics*; D006801:Humans; D008134:Long-Term Care; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014481:United States