Physician characteristics and training emphasis considered desirable by leaders of HMOs

Health maintenance organizations (HMOs) are growing rapidly and employing increasing numbers of physicians. It is important for medical educators to know what such organizations consider important physician traits and training experiences for their recruitment and retention of physicians. A survey of all HMOs in the United States in 1986, to which 44 percent responded, indicated that they want the curriculum of medical school and/or residency programs to have increased emphasis on cost-effective use of diagnostic and treatment services, utilization review and quality assurance, the role of primary care "gate-keeper," and financing of health services. The most important criteria in selection of physicians by HMOs were the physician's board eligibility, motivation, bedside manner, adaptability to a changing environment, the ability to work in a team, training being done in a U.S. medical school, and ability to relate to nonphysician staff members and the reputation of the physician's residency program.