write 400 words that respond to the following questions with your thoughts, ideas, and comments. This will be the foundation for future discussions by your classmates. Be substantive and clear, and use examples to reinforce your ideas:

Competition is a driving force in business. Respond to the following questions regarding competition and competition in the healthcare industry:

From an economics perspective, what is a competitive market?  
Based on your definition and understanding of economic competition, is the healthcare industry a competitive market?
 Why or why not?
Provide one example of a recent merger or acquisition between healthcare providers, healthcare providers and insurers or pharmacy benefit providers and insurers.  
What are the issues influencing these decisions on acquisition?What is the role of the government in regulating these business transactions?