Thursday, November 11, 2010

NEJM: Physicians versus Hospitals as Leaders of Accountable Care Organizations



Another interesting perspective was published online yesterday in NEJM's 'Health Policy and Reform' section. Here they tackle the burning question... who will control the ACOs? Will it be primarily physician or hospital controlled?


"We can envision two possible futures: one of physician-controlled ACOs, with physicians affiliating and contracting with hospitals, controlling the flow of funds through the marketplace; and one of hospital-controlled ACOs that will employ physicians. Whoever controls the ACOs will capture the largest share of any savings."


Click here to read the complete perspective.


There is no doubt it will be difficult to accomplish a successful physician controlled ACO. The resources and infrastructure required should not in any way be minimized.  But, just because it is difficult, doesnt mean it cannot, or should not be done. There is a great opportunity for the private practitioners to collaborate without a hospital or health system. The first step is to organize ourselves. A clinically integrated IPA like Beacon IPA was put together as a potential vehicle to become an accountable care organization. We need your help and support.


Together we can do this.... please join Beacon IPA today!

1 comment:

  1. I find the idea of payment on performance intriguing when it comes to doctors and doctor's offices. I don't know how it would work exactly, but I'm sure that once the system is in place, many more doctors will hire medical practice management consultants to help them perform better!

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