Comment by bsder

> If the PE firm is charging more than a vet operating alone would, then why wouldn't a vet operating alone just undercut the PE firm's veterinary practice?

Finance.

Throwing in with the PE firm means you don't have to negotiate real estate leases, don't have to think about POS systems, and don't have to worry about collections.

So, the vet probably gets paid the same and spends a lot more time on being a vet. On the other hand, the consumers spend a LOT more once the PE firm has a monopoly position and switches to gouging them.