The essence of a free market is that parties have access to essentially similar data. To his credit, Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt recognizes this.

In the case of health care that’s very difficult to assure that both parties (doctor and patient) have the same data. Physicians spend four years in medical school and at least three additional years in training. The volume of information they must manage is enormous. Few actually master the information in their own specialty.

But it is possible to supply patients with both outcome and process information regarding physicians. At least patients can make decisions based on something besides whether the front-office staff is nice.

I applaud Mr. Leavitt’s efforts.

It’s still your health care. Ask questions. Expect answers. Demand responsibility.