The antitrust risks of management services organizations, medical foundations, and integrated delivery systems

This chapter focuses on the antitrust implications of forming a fully integrated delivery system. The danger lies in a challenge by the federal government or private parties, if the proposed system threatens the development of competing systems or excludes individuals or entities. By explaining the risks facing less integrated arrangements involving medical foundations and management services organizations, why forming an integrated system may resolve some of those risks, and the advantages and disadvantages of other options, this chapter also points out one of the primary benefits of forming an integrated system: reducing the antitrust risks. Finally, general suggestions are posed to minimize the antitrust risks when planning and developing any collaborative effort among providers.