Abstract
A 1950 study of group practice in California reveals 52 “true general medical groups” among 123 medical organizations surveyed, involving 634 full-time and 215 part-time physicians. The groups, in contrast to the national patterns, tend to be larger, younger and more urban. There is also a greater tendency toward unit hospital affiliation (30 groups) and operation of group prepayment plans (10 groups).
In general similarity to the national scene, California groups are most frequently organized as private partnerships with a salary method of remuneration sometimes augmented by a share of net earnings. The range of medical and technical services offered varies widely with the size of the group.
The combination of group prepayment, medical group practice, and coordinated medical-hospital centers seems to offer special opportunities for satisfactory practice and adequate medical care.
Full text
PDF
