Letter: Debating privatization of services

There is a major flaw in columnist Alvin Bessent's argument in "Industry doesn't always beat government" [Opinion, Aug. 25]. The reason private insurers must pay more is because the government squeezes the drug companies on price. Private insurers are then charged more to make up for the shortfall.

When the government has its hands in businesses in which the private sector competes, the results become distorted. Another example is government prohibiting interstate competition in health insurance. When the government sets up roadblocks to private companies, you cannot conclude that the government is more efficient. The true test is on a level playing field.

Edward Schwartz, Dix Hills