[who_would_fardels_bear]

"and finally, the suppliers ---slap that "medical" tag on it and it becomes a whole 'nother level of item....."

Popsicle stick ... 10c

Tongue Depressor ... $2

The ability to overcharge at will ... Priceless.

[Paved Paradise]

Yeah. I remember back in the days before they broke out all the charges. Years ago if you got an IV for instance, or even an injection, you’d be charged one charge for, say, “IV” or “Immunization.”

Now it’s broken down “venipuncture” etc. etc. They charge you for the needle stick, for the tube, for the stuff they’re dripping into you. It’s crazy but the $ sure add up this way.