I don't know if this is directly related to the ongoing debate, but one big problem with medical care is: try getting a quote for something you want done. Say, a knee replacement. GOOD LUCK! Every other product or service I can think of has the prices transparent. I reckon if people knew what they were paying, they could decide if they are getting what they pay for. If someone wants to buy a Kia and sees a Cadillac price, they know right away something's not OK. No such "common lore" exists, AFAIK, in health care prices.