> The problem is you wouldn't make this argument about any other sort of good
The problem with your argument is that healthcare is a service, not a good; and unlike a commodity, every human body is different. A box of Nabisco crackers is the same regardless of where shop. Even service based industries like automotive repair have limited variability with parts or process. The service provided by healthcare providers varies dramatically depending on the procedure desired and who is performing it. Simple procedures like wart removal can be performed a dozen different ways and each has a different cost.
Routine healthcare services have relatively fixed costs and insureds typically pay small deductibles for these services. Uninsured individuals can absolutely call around for quotes on exams and common procedures like wart removal.
Unplanned and Emergency healthcare services are an entirely different story and aren't comparable to any other service. The nearest I can come up with would be an emergency plumber and, like emergency healthcare services, you play through the nose for them. The primary difference is that a plumber can triage the situation by shutting off the water before discussing options and payment. Doctors don't have such luxuries.
The problem with your argument is that healthcare is a service, not a good; and unlike a commodity, every human body is different. A box of Nabisco crackers is the same regardless of where shop. Even service based industries like automotive repair have limited variability with parts or process. The service provided by healthcare providers varies dramatically depending on the procedure desired and who is performing it. Simple procedures like wart removal can be performed a dozen different ways and each has a different cost.
Routine healthcare services have relatively fixed costs and insureds typically pay small deductibles for these services. Uninsured individuals can absolutely call around for quotes on exams and common procedures like wart removal.
Unplanned and Emergency healthcare services are an entirely different story and aren't comparable to any other service. The nearest I can come up with would be an emergency plumber and, like emergency healthcare services, you play through the nose for them. The primary difference is that a plumber can triage the situation by shutting off the water before discussing options and payment. Doctors don't have such luxuries.