The Council pursues its mission through the following specific objectives:
- Identify critical issues brought about by health system change
- Conduct original research and commission research from technical experts
- Create a forum for discussion of issues among Council members, health services researchers, representatives of Congress, Congressional staff, representatives of related governmental agencies, industry leaders, and members of the press
- Issue background papers, research findings, journal articles, press releases, and policy recommendations
- Provide analytical leadership by formulating topical research agendas for health services research organizations and government agencies, foundations and other organizations
The signature Council event is the annual Princeton Conference. The first Princeton Conference was held on October 29-31, 1994, at Princeton University. Conference participants analyzed and critiqued the Clinton Administration’s health care reform plan.