"
There are other very
viable options for a thriving
practice in addition to hospital
employed arrangements."
JENNIFER HOHMAN, MD, MEMBER OF
THE OHIO INDEPENDENT COLLABORATIVE
Dr. Kent says they 're only beginning to explore
the benefits created by the OIC. But he admits
that the results are already outstanding for every-
one involved.
"Through this massive collaboration, we're able
to work together with one voice," he says, "and it's
making a huge, huge impact on hea lth care across
the state."
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
A s for future endeavors, the OIC's to-do list
is long. It includes further development of their
population hea lth plan strateg y, the addition of
third-pa r t y payor contracts that suppor t this
strateg y, expansion of their technologica l infra-
structure, and partnerships with select hospita ls
for inpatient care. Logically, expansion of the OIC's
membership is a lso on the list.
A ll three doctors say they never expected the
g row th they 've had since news about the OIC
was released last Aug ust. They a re admittedly
astonished and overwhelmed by the enthusiasm
of each physician group they meet.
" We a ll want the same thing — independence,"
says Dr. Pinta. "The physicians who are indepen-
dent are independent for a reason, not by chance.
It's rea lly a choice to continue to practice in a way
that we feel best benefits the patient."
"I think it's important for physicians to know that
there are other very viable options for a thriving
practice in addition to hospital employed arrange-
ments," adds Dr. Hohman.
Dr. Kent a g rees. " Wit h t h i s model , t here's
st i l l hope for i ndependent pra ct ices t o ex i st
and succeed."
For more information about the OIC and its
members, visit ohioindependentcollaborative.org or
contact Dr. Pinta at 330-923-4500 or gary.pinta@
ohioindependentcollaborative.org. ■
"
M D N E W S . C O M /// M D N E W S C L E V E L A N D /A K R O N / C A N T O N
n
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