[EvertonDiehard]

Inflation in healthcare is obviously unsustainable. The reality is that private medical care is a business where operators of clinics and hospitals are responsible to their shareholders in terms of profits and dividends. Private hospitals are also operated by a few major players, resulting in imperfect competition. In view of the escalating costs of medical services, it is hardly surprising that insurers of Integrated Shield Plans have been actively reviewing cost containment initiatives, as claims from private hospitals have spiralled at a faster rate than anticipated. With private healthcare costs rising at more than 20% annually, the govt needs to step in.