Appropriate for secondary school social studies, this booklet covers the causes, problems, and possible solutions for the high cost of American health care. The topic is discussed in five sections. The first section, "The $350 Billion Health Care Bill," discusses how the nation's priority on health care has led to the emergence of medicine as America's leading growth industry. "RX for High Medical Bills: More Competition" discusses changes which would encourage consumers and providers to be more cost conscious. "The Government's Role" considers how costs could be confined by redefining that role. "The High Cost of Heroic Measures" questions whether the costs of new procedures are always justified. "Putting a Priority and a Price Tag on Health Care" deals with the need to humanely weigh the costs and benefits of medical care. Two self-administered questionnaires intended for completion before and after participation in a public forum or reading the booklet are included as well as a list of recommended readings. (IS)