These papers were first presented at a seminar on the management of chronic illness, in a series supported by the King's Fund as a contribution to the study of priorities in medical care and the performance of management in relation to medical services. This publication comprises the papers which were given by various authors, revised in the light of discussion which took place at the meeting. It is hoped that these contributions will stimulate further discussion about ways to improve the management of care of those suffering chronic illnesses or disabilities.