An Evaluation of Interactional Benefits Deriving from Occupational Safety and Health Interests and Proposed New Community Health Systems

摘要

The findings of a survey of industrial and community health care cooperation in Pascagoula, Mississippi are presented. Epidemiological and health care data gathered from the community's major employees is summarized, including statistics on work related illness and workmen's compensation. Existing health care services are described. The author concludes that industry is satisfactorily meeting the needs of its employees, but that the community is not adequately caring for its citizens, due mainly to a shortage of physicians. A health maintenance organization (HMO) is proposed to alleviate the discrepancy in medical services. The HMO would serve both industry and the community and be oriented toward preventive medicine. The author notes that the results of an HMO market feasibility study indicate that such a program could be implemented successfully and economically in Pascagoula, Mississippi.