Chronic health conditions are the leading cause of illness, disability, and death in the United States today, affecting nearly one hundred million citizens. These conditions cost the economy more than $470 billion a year in direct medical costs, and more than $230 billion in lost productivity.While Americans pride themselves on living in a caring country, society as a whole has not fully prepared for the many challenges presented by chronic illness. This timely book illustrates the caregiving needs to be faced in the next century. Written by individuals associated with the National Quality Caregiving Coalition (NQCC) of the Rosalynn Carter Institute,Caring and Competent Caregiversis a foundation book for use by academicians conducting professional training programs, diverse health care and social service providers on the front lines providing assistance to others, and students entering the field. Incorporating philosophy, social science research, and impressionistic evidence, this book provides a basis for education and practice that is both inspirational and practical.