In our post-welfare society, health is increasingly viewed as a commodity and individuals are defined as "health care consumers". At the same time, the notion that the state should care for the health of its citizens is being replaced by an expectation that citizens should play a more active role in caring for themselves. These developments are by no means uncontentious. "Consuming Health" explores the diverse meanings and applications of the term "consumer" in the field of health care and the implications for policy making, health care delivery and experiences of health care. The contributors to the book are researchers and lecturers from Australia, the UK and Canada. Between them they cover a wide range of topics, from the medicalization of the menopause to the participation of consumer groups in the national policy process.