The GOP's Amusing Fixation On Health Care "Choice"

[TexasBushwhacker]

15. "Choice" in health INSURANCE has done nothing to reduce provider and drug costs

That's something I've never understood. If the insurance companies were better/more diligent at negotiating reasonable compensation to providers and pharmaceutical companies, then they could provide insurance at a lower cost. It makes no sense that a drug in Canada costs 20% what it costs here. Why is the cost of a routine hip replacement $11K in Birmingham, AL and $74K in Boston? I realize the cost of living and doing business is different, but almost 700% different?

Instead of doing their part to keep healthcare costs down, all the insurance companies have done is pass the costs onto consumers. That's what pushes us towards Medicare for all. Medicare sets the compensation rate, and the providers can either take it or only take private payers.