The 'rich picture' methodology, borrowed from soft systems methodology, links hard and soft facts in a cartoon-like representation to illustrate a complex problem. The research in this book is presented using the rich picture method to capture the crisis in affordable long- term care and long-term services and supports (LTSS) for people with disabilities and the barriers to reform. The picture and the discussion that follows it rely on expert research from the past and present, as well as one-on-one, open-ended interviews with key stakeholders in the fields of disability, long-term care, and health care. About 60 pages of appendices provide demographic information, federal tables, and lists of state initiatives and federal programs. The book is the first in a projected five-part set that will examine the current state of LTSS financing and systems reform and explore future demands and promising state practices. Annotation ⓒ2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Picturing the problem -- Charting the course --Forecasting the need --Dragging anchor -- Introducing the captain -- Meeting the crew -- Fueling the engine -- Pushing tugboats -- Harnessing favorable winds -- Gathering clouds -- Recharting the course.