Health system mergers and acquisitions indicate a shift toward retail clinics, physician practices and digital resources, according to an article on the Health Facility Management website.
"The shift in hospitals toward vertical integration is a response to the need to form new delivery system models that allow for greater coordination of care," said a spokeswoman for the American Hospital Association.
For instance, Providence Health & Services and Walgreens in Portland and Seattle are partnering to integrate 25 store-based clinics into the system's primary care model.
This shift can lower risk, improve cost structures and capture more of the payer dollars, as well as serve customers better, the article said.
Preparing Healthcare Facilities for Severe Thunderstorms
NLCS Strengthens Safety and Compliance with Comprehensive Electrical Program
University of South Carolina Opens New Brain Health Center
Infrastructure Issues: Assisting Mobility-Challenged Visitors
Willis-Knighton Medical Center Upgrades Chilled Water Plant