Independent Practice Associations: Development Primer for the Audiologist

Abstract

Throughout the country, practitioners are being offered buy-out opportunities as a solution to the changing health care system. Although well-intentioned and reasonable, caution should be followed as offers that sound “too good to be true” often are. The “so what and who cares” approach promotes caution for the practice owner who is trying to succeed in managed care. An independent practice association (IPA) may provide a solution if it is properly formed and managed. This article will discuss cautions and methods for responding to the changes in the health care system.

Keywords:

Independent practice association - networks - Utilization Review Committee