The article reflects the results of an analysis of studies by different authors on the problems of domestic and foreign relevant markets for medical services. The essence of concepts is revealed: a medical service, its competitiveness, the market of medical services. The situation is described, associated with problems in the formation of a competitive environment, the main factors hindering the competitiveness of medical services, the nature of their functioning, which determines the need for government intervention in the health sector. The main participants of the medical services market are presented and the reasons for the conflict of their interests are substantiated.