Sectoral Divisions in Consumption: The Case of Medical Care

A number of writers have argued that social divisions associated with consumption are replacing social classes as the key dimensions of social stratification. In particular, using the example of housing, they have argued that there is a major social divide between public and private sector consumers. This paper examines the possibility and value of identifying consumption sector divisions in the field of medical care, arguing that no clear divisions can be drawn between public and private consumers. It explores the possible bases for such divisions and provides evidence to show that most individuals, even if they have private medical insurance, are consumers of both state and private medicine. It argues that those who purchase private medicine secure little in the way of long-term medical advantage and that private medicine does not maximise consumer choice. It concludes by calling into question the importance that has recently been attached to consumption.