In my review of the Brookings Institute report, I see many reasons for the high cost of health care in the United States. A lack of transparency in pricing and wild variations in pricing even within the same regional market is very evident. The report cites that the same blood test in El Paso, Texas can range from $144 - $952. "Much of the variation is likely related to market imperfections that limit the ability and incentive for patients to shop for the lowest price." (Nunn, Parsons