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For those of you who don't know:
1. Horizontal integration = merger of PP Rad Onc group with other oncology groups (Med Onc, Rad Onc or combined) for the purposes of market stability, better coordination of care, practice survival, etc.
2. Vertical integration = merger of PP Rad Onc group with either specialists (mainly surgeons such as Gen Surg, Neurosurg, Urology, ENT) and/or with primary care physicians. This is being done due to the likely introduction of bundled payments by CMS, which will presumably dispense with fee-for-service and simply give a lump sum for oncology care. This will allow an alliance of PP groups to compete with hospitals. Furthermore, such "mega groups" will be better able to meet provisions of the ACA which call for more efficient, cost-effective patient care.
We are certainly looking into vertical integration and I know a couple of practices who have already merged. I'd be curious to hear thought/perceptions from other Rad Oncs around the country.
1. Horizontal integration = merger of PP Rad Onc group with other oncology groups (Med Onc, Rad Onc or combined) for the purposes of market stability, better coordination of care, practice survival, etc.
2. Vertical integration = merger of PP Rad Onc group with either specialists (mainly surgeons such as Gen Surg, Neurosurg, Urology, ENT) and/or with primary care physicians. This is being done due to the likely introduction of bundled payments by CMS, which will presumably dispense with fee-for-service and simply give a lump sum for oncology care. This will allow an alliance of PP groups to compete with hospitals. Furthermore, such "mega groups" will be better able to meet provisions of the ACA which call for more efficient, cost-effective patient care.
We are certainly looking into vertical integration and I know a couple of practices who have already merged. I'd be curious to hear thought/perceptions from other Rad Oncs around the country.