The consumer doesn't pay for services directly--bills are paid by government and insurance companies. Many states specify that various items be included in insurance coverage, which raises costs. Costs are also raised by excessive tests and medical procedures performed in an effort to avoid litigation. The Foundation questioned 1,150 students. Their answers are recorded below:
Who should pay for health care in the United States? (choose one only)
17% federal government only and 07% employers
05% state government only and 09% private consumers and charities
52% state and federal government and 10% other (specify)
How should health-care costs be controlled? (choose one only)
68% government mandated price controls
25% free-market
07% other (specify) combination, doctors, bargaining, Canada etc.
High costs are due primarily to: (choose one only)
17% third party payer system and 11% excessive government regulation
13% expensive technological and 20% threat of malpractice suits
15% excessive paperwork and 24% greed of private providers
As you can see, an overwhelming number of students blame the greed and mismanagement of
private providers for our nation's health care problems. They would reject capitalism's
long term free market-type solutions in favor of price controls and other government
mandates.
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