Strengthening physician bonds through practice development planning

As the delivery of health care continues to evolve in an increasingly competitive environment, the alliances between healthcare institutions and physician providers become an important key to the prosperity and ultimate survival of both parties. In this first article of a two-part series, a case study of one healthcare system's program of physician practice development is presented, focusing on the events leading up to the inception of the program, goals of the program, and the protocol and rationale of a physician practice enhancement project. The second article in this series will discuss the operational process as well as the pitfalls to be avoided in developing and establishing a medical practice for management.