Southern medical groups form association
Four specialty medical groups in greater Portland have formed an independent practice association, the largest of its kind in the state.
Chest Medicine Associates in South Portland, Portland Gastroenterology Associates, OA Centers for Orthopaedics in Portland and Spectrum Medical Group in South Portland have formed Maine Specialty IPA, according to a press release. The IPA represents more than 250 physicians and medical providers in southern Maine and across the state. An IPA allows members to contract jointly with health insurance companies and other payer organizations, providing cost efficiencies by sharing administrative services, according to the release. Members retain their independent ownership, and the IPA plans to eventually add members.
The association is countering a trend toward hospital-based employment. In Maine, 2,000 physicians are employed at practices owned by hospitals or federally qualified health centers, which is equal to about 70% of the state's doctors. That number was less than 15% 10 years ago, according to the release.
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