The future of healthcare. Seven experts look ahead

If there were ever a time to have a crystal ball, it's now. In today's healthcare environment the only thing that seems certain is change. To help marketers make some educated guesses about the future of healthcare, hospitals, and the market, PROFILES invited seven experts to prognosticate. They considered what might happen in this decade, and what could be reality in 25 to 50 years. They address topics ranging from surgery of the future to how consumers will find healthcare information. Here are a few of their predictions: 1. Managed care will dominate the market. 2. More hospitals will close. Those remaining will consolidate or collaborate and draw closer to their communities. 3. Doctors and hospitals will build partnerships. More doctors will be salaried. 4. Cost controls will increase. 5. Quality will differentiate hospitals and drive marketing. 6. Patients will become more involved in their care and in their selection of hospitals. 7. Drug treatments will play an increased role as surgery declines.