>>The problem is that some markets aren't truly free and the prices of some of things we buy have risen dramatically.

Duh.
That is how monopolies work.
In all places at all times.

Our former medical system with third-party payers was de-facto socialistic.
You consume, somebody else pays.
Of course, as a taxpayer and insurance buyer, you are essentially that somebody.

Remember when 411 directory assistance was free?
It was over-consumed and abused.
Remember the ads asking you to PLEASE use the white pages yourself?

The ads now said PLEASE call us :)
Amazing what happens when you pay your own costs and somebody is figuring out how to provide services at a profit.

Fixing the third party payer problem with regulation and bureaucracy is like fixing diarrhea by tinkering with the plumbing under the toilet.
A complete misunderstanding of the problem.