[whocares2345]

I understand your concerns but I do think you are also missing very important pieces. Just like some software engineers are almost useless and others are extremely bright, so are doctors. If the Hospital attempts to recruit better doctors - it will be a lot more expensive. Just like some developers make $100k and others $600 - so do doctors. Most Hospitals are non-profit and do you know if any private hospital company in the top of fortune 100 companies? No, because they don’t make that much profit, it all goes to salaries and equipment. You’re ER case is very valid up to a point - you usually can’t make any decisions at the time. But if you are in a situation where you’re unconscious in the ER - you don’t need to! You are 100% hitting your max out of pocket and that’s it for the year. Same if you have a severe condition. The only time you care about the cost is if you have a mild condition with optional treatment, in which case you can shop for prices, just like most do with a dentist.