Care services, multinational companies and expanding European markets

Social services are becoming a major issue at European level although recognition of importance of social services as publicly-run services unclear. Multinational care companies are operating in several distinct European sub-markets. There have been limited mergers and acquisitions since 2007 but signs of consolidation. Private equity ownership still significant in this sector

Briefing paper 'On the European workforce for health'

A critique of the EC report 'On the European Workforce for Health', together with workshop conclusions

Privatisation of ambulance, emergency and firefighting services in Europe – a growing threat?

This paper examines the extent of privatisation in the ambulance, emergency and firefighting services in Europe, and the companies involved

Occupational health regulations and health workers: protection or vulnerability?

Several trade agreements include occupational health and safety regulations but there are many barriers to implementation. Mechanisms for sanctions are often weak but the lack of political will is the biggest barrier

Evercare/United Health Group briefing paper

The paper examines some of the issues raised by the recent involvement of Evercare, part of the US company, United Health Group, in a Department of Health (England) pilot initiative on the use of a case management approach to keep frail, older people out of hospital

The impact of public sector reforms on public sector workers

The paper presents some initial findings from a survey of public sector workers, in a number of countries in Europe, Africa, North America, Latin America and Asia, and how they have been affected by policies of liberalisation in relation to wages, working conditions and other forms of socio-economic security

Changing care services and labour markets

Changes in the nature of funding, in the care sector, are influencing the development of a social care labour market. Migration plays a role in ensuring the provision of care workers in many European countries

A global review of the expansion of multinational healthcare companies

There are some common patterns of expansion among healthcare multinational companies throughout the world. Many are diversifying away from just delivering healthcare to providing health insurance and other financial infrastructure

Public policies, environmental health, sustainability and social inclusion in developed countries

The paper discusses the range of public policies, concerned with environment health, sustainability and social inclusion, recently introduced by governments in developed countries

Changing healthcare systems in Asia

Outline of key changes in healthcare systems in Asia including company developments and trade union action