A Canadian friend was in Florida last week and had problems with a rapidly changing growth on his thigh. He was admitted to a hospital in Sarasota on an emergency basis, so he was able to access his health care coverage. Thankfully, the growth was benign, but when it was removed that same day, he developed an infection which was not immediately identified correctly. Two or three treatments later, the proper antibiotic finally began to work. But the medicine had to be administered by IV, so he had to wait for two more days before being released.
My friend could understand why all of this happened, and was grateful that the problem was being successfully resolved.
What upset him was that in the two day period he waited for the infection to subside, between twelve and fifteen doctors, none of whom he had seen previously, came in to see him. All introduced themselves with a statement similar to "I just came in to see how you are feeling." None stayed more than a minute or two. Most asked if my friend had received the doctor's business card, and invited him to stop by their office if he had any questions or concerns.
ALL of those doctors billed my friend. Their bills made up a large portion of the incomplete total bill my friend saw - over $25,000.
My friend claims this never would have happened back home in Ontario. A small team would have been assigned to his case and carried through treatment to conclusion. He also says that having to wait for treatment in Canada is a myth. He claims he and all the folks he knows have always received prompt and very good care for all kinds of health problems.

We know that the costs of our health care system are spinning out of control. What's wrong with accountability regulations which limit the ability for any doctor to hitchhike on the cases of others and bill indiscriminately?

For those of you who bridle at the idea of regulating how healthcare is administered, how would you solve this massive problem?