The Contribution of Physician-System Integrating Structure to Select Health System Outcomes

J Ambul Care Manage. 2020 Jul/Sep;43(3):237-256. doi: 10.1097/JAC.0000000000000331.

Abstract

Physician groups are increasingly being vertically integrated with hospitals and health systems; yet, the evidence on the impact of physician-system integration on health system outcomes is mixed. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of increased physician-system integration on select health system outcomes. We used a mixed-methods approach: (1) a fixed-effects multivariate mediation analysis; and (2) a qualitative analysis of interviews with health executives (n = 25). Our findings showed that hospitals spent $633 375.22 to $827 110.24 for each "level" increase in integration. This relationship was attenuated, however, by the presence of care coordination mechanisms.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Databases, Factual
  • Delivery of Health Care, Integrated / organization & administration*
  • Group Practice*
  • Health Care Surveys
  • Hospitals*
  • Humans
  • Organizational Affiliation*
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care*
  • United States