Here Brian R. Gantwerker, MD, discusses how hospitals attempt to stand in the way of independent physicians.
Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. We invite all spine surgeon and specialist responses.
Next week's question: What are some ways for spine surgeons to improve patient experience?
Please send responses to Anuja Vaidya at avaidya@beckershealthcare.com by Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 5 p.m. CST.
Question: What is the most frustrating aspect of hospital employment of physicians?
Brian R. Gantwerker, MD, The Craniospinal Center of Los Angeles: Independent practice remains the most rewarding thing I have done with my career. What frustrates me is the constant hospital efforts to leveraging themselves against the independent practitioner by hiring competing doctors, attempting to market to your well-established patients and by not cultivating the surgeons who are already there doing a good job.