Fewer doctors are employed by independent physician practices as offices are acquired by health systems, insurers, private equity firms and other companies, according to a review of studies published Monday by the Government Accountability Office. Physician consolidation with health systems can lead to higher prices, as well as a decrease or no change in care quality, according to the report. However, the impact of consolidation with other entities — like payers, private equity firms or retailers — was less clear or unknown.
Read the full article: Physician Practice Acquisitions on the Rise: GAO //
Source: https://www.healthcaredive.com/news/physician-practice-acquistions-healthcare-consolidation-rising-government-accountability-office-gao/760919/