J G Pitcavage

Integrated delivery systems: one staff's experience.

Many hospitals and medical staffs have established a physician-hospital organization (PHO) or are discussing the development of one to facilitate contracting with managed care organizations. Physician leadership is essential in the establishment of a PHO in order for physicians to maintain control over patient care. This article describes how one medical staff--at Sewickley Valley Hospital--formed a PHO with its hospital and then a network with other PHOs. It also explains how physicians play an active role in the organization.