The Coming Millennium: Enduring Issues Confronting Catholic Health Care

Abstract

Professor Singer and Ms. Johnson Lantz provide a cogent overview of Catholic health care in the United States and address three key issues affecting Catholic health care in the coming years. First, the authors address the need for clarity in canonical and ethical interpretation. The authors note that as health care systems continue to develop across wider geographic and diocesan lines, the interrelationship between Catholic and secular providers is becoming increasingly important. To foster that relationship, Catholic health care providers need to ensure clear, consistent doctrinal interpretations regarding the tenets of Catholic health care. Second, the authors stress that Catholic health care providers need to focus on the consolidation of Catholic health care delivery at the national, regional and local levels. Market dynamics and community needs will continue to draw Catholic providers into new and varied collaborations, and thus providers need to be prepared to adapt to these changes. Third, the authors highlight the need for Catholic providers to prepare for a shift toward lay sponsorship models. The authors conclude that successful Catholic health care organizations must maintain strong mission and business fundamentals in an increasingly competitive reimbursement and regulatory environment.