[jljljl]

I wasn't talking specifically about people with cancer who have plenty of time to research which clinic is most cost effective.

I stated in my post: "If I'm in the hospital with an emergency or critical condition, I probably don't have the option of fully researching or understanding my options."

Just because situations exist where you have time to research, doesn't mean you always have time to do so. And a healthcare system needs to take that into consideration, especially when the consequences can be life or death.

[refurb]

Point taken. However, keep in mind that even when it's an emergency, you often have choices. For example, if you just had a heart attack, they will often stabilize you then talk about further options.

I agree that no one will do a price-check when they are on death's doorstop, but there are many instances where doing a price check for medical procedures is possible.

[jljljl]

Fair point :)