Competition is the real cure for spiraling drug price increases (“Fight over drug bill looms’’). The problem with almost every facet of health care is unhealthy markets. We need to stop making excuses for health care costs and get tough about fostering well-regulated, free, and competitive markets.

The human laws of self-interest can’t be overturned. As long as we continue to countenance our current incentives, we can expect price increases to be out of control. Once we start systematically addressing barriers to competition in health care, such as overly protective patents, we will see price increases moderate.

A heavy dose of competition in pharmaceuticals would be a good way to start the healthy recovery of our sick health care sector.

Roger Wilson

Winchester