Oncology Issues
Cancer care providers, both in the hospital and practice setting, are in the midst of uncharted and stormy waters. Few would disagree about the need for the strategic alignment of hospitals, physicians, and related cancer services. Although most understand that the next five years will see industry-wide transitions to new cancer care delivery models, there is much debate on how best to achieve strategic, economic, and operational integration across multiple providers and sites of care. And since each market has different characteristics, one size does not fit all. The good news is that many options are available. The caveat: an effective integration strategy may entail changes in the structure and culture of the oncology community. This article discusses options for closer alignment between physicians and hospitals and describes the required steps for a successful transaction.