Physician integration and retention in a large IDS: economic implications

To implement an effective physician recruitment and retention policy, Fairview Health Services, a large, regional integrated delivery system (IDS) headquartered in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, conducted a study to determine the degree to which its physicians behaved as integral members of the IDS. The study primarily consisted of interviews with physicians and IDS clinical executives and their support staff. Responses were evaluated based on the Meyer and Allen three-component model of organizational commitment. Results provided a basis for recommending initiatives Fairview could undertake to increase physician commitment to the organization. Final recommendations included focusing recruitment efforts on older, more experienced physicians and reassessment of Fairview's hospital-centered approach to governance.