Preserving what we cannot replace: authority commensurate with responsibility

Today's physicians are faced with conflicting pressures. As hospitals attempt to base staff privileges on the physician's ability to operate with economic restraint, physicians must struggle to maintain the medical staff autonomy vital to the provision of quality patient care. Dr. Lang urges medical staff unity against corporate influence over medical practice, and proposes a separate management organization for medical staffs, with separate funding for medical staff activities.