The main aim of this guide is to show people how to make knowledgeable decisions in choosing their health care, such as insurance, doctor and hospital. It provides information about ambulatory and long-term care and mental health services and discusses the changing roles of physicians and dentists, insurance versus pre-paid plans, assuring quality care, how hospitals and physicians get paid and alternatives to traditional medicine. Appendices list current addresses, contact information and toll-free telephone numbers of agencies which can be approached to answer questions about specific needs and situations.