The U.S. health care system is in crisis. At stake are the quality of care for millions of Americans and the financial well-being of individuals and employers squeezed by skyrocketing premiums--not to mention the stability of state and federal government budgets. In Redefining Health Care internationally renowned strategy expert Michael Porter and innovation expert Elizabeth Teisberg reveal the underlying--and largely overlooked--causes of the problem and provide a powerful prescription for change. The authors argue that competition currently takes place at the wrong level--among health plans networks and hospitals--rather than where it matters most in the diagnosis treatment and prevention of specific health conditions. Participants in the system accumulate bargaining power and shift costs in a zero-sum competition rather than creating value for patients. Based on an exhaustive study of the U.S. health care system Redefining Health Care lays out a breakthrough framework for redefining the way competition in health care delivery takes place--and unleashing stunning improvements in quality and efficiency. With specific recommendations for hospitals doctors health plans employers and policy makers this book shows how to move health care toward positive-sum competition that delivers lasting benefits for all.