This book explores the methods and approach necessary to investigate the setting up and running of a health system. It will enable the reader to begin to investigate his own health system, and compare and contrast it with other systems. The continual monitoring of change allows for the detection and identification of longitudinal trends within and across systems, and evolution in systems can then occur. Looking at systems can furnish alternative ideas, and help to establish new models of care.The book presents a modular approach to analysing health care systems, and the author explains how this can be put to practical use. Topics are discussed at both conceptual and operational levels, and methods of applying the approach are outlined. Case histories illustrate the use of the modular approach in `real life' situations. An appendix of terms and concepts is provided to facilitate use.