> Health care is the absolute prime example of a Veblen good
"Veblen Good: A good for which demand increases as the price increases, because of its exclusive nature and appeal as a status symbol."
I'm not following. Heart surgery demand is based on having a heart problem. Taking a step back, health care encompasses more than just picking a heart surgeon. Most practitioners won't tell you the dollar price of a service beforehand even if you ask. Standard behavior is to go see whoever is covered by your insurance.
"Veblen Good: A good for which demand increases as the price increases, because of its exclusive nature and appeal as a status symbol."
I'm not following. Heart surgery demand is based on having a heart problem. Taking a step back, health care encompasses more than just picking a heart surgeon. Most practitioners won't tell you the dollar price of a service beforehand even if you ask. Standard behavior is to go see whoever is covered by your insurance.