Cui bono ? Is Australia taking a step to managed healthcare as in the United States?

An editorial is presented on contracting of healthcare providers, financial controls, and increasing administrative burdens for patients or providers. Topics include ACCC releasing a draft determination broadly supportive of the proposal based on the balance of risks and benefits; buying-group allowing for the selective contracting of healthcare providers; and patient choice of psychiatrist, hospital venue and modality of care, as well as eroding the doctor–patient relationship.