Factors for success: capitated primary physicians in Medicare HMOs

Since their introduction in 1985, Medicare health maintenance organizations (HMOs) have had mixed results, and little research has been completed on what factors lead to a successful experience for capitated physicians in Medicare HMOs. The pilot study discussed in this article was conducted in early 1989 in an attempt to identify those factors. The study involved structured individual diagnostic interviews with successful capitated Medicare HMO primary physicians, revealing that they share common characteristics in practice philosophy, attitudes, and administrative control.