Organizational solutions for distressed industry

America's health care delivery organizations are facing increased pressure to provide a broader, more comprehensive range of services in an environment of sharply restricted resources, increasing competition, and greater risk. To cope with this hostile marketplace, health care corporations are reevaluating their management structures. They will inevitably recognize that historic conventions about organizational design have changed dramatically and that existing management relationships must shift to keep pace. Health care organizations will progress through a series of structures based on functions, products, and ultimately markets. This glimpse into the future of the health care industry is disturbing--intentionally disturbing. It is intended to stimulate discussion and thought that departs from the conventional.