This book contains five chapters based on papers that were prepared for the Cornell University Medical College Second Conference on Health Policy held in New York City on February 27-28, 1986, plus an introductory chapter and a summary of the discussion written by me as chairman and editor. The title, From Physician Shortage to Patient Shortage: The Uncertain Future of Medical Practice, underscores two of the major changes that are operating to reshape the U.S. health care sector.