Why wouldn't a free market collude and monopolize to maximize profit? Idealized free markets require perfect information. Most consumers of healthcare are woefully ill informed on healthcare matters. The problem with free markets is summed up with phrases like: "caveat emptor", "a fool & his money are easily parted", "there's a sucker born every minute", "penny wise, pound foolish".

Discount laser eye surgery has its own issues with deceptive advertising, misleading pricing, patients being rushed & not fully informed of potential side effects or receiving poor post-op care. People really need to research thoroughly before using a coupon for their laser eye surgery. No one should expect the market to just provide a quality product. That's foolish thinking.