title: The relationship and tensions between vertical integrated delivery systems and horizontal specialty networks.
abstract: This activity is designated for physicians, medical directors, and healthcare policy makers.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To clarify the issues involved with the integration of single-specialty networks into vertical integrated healthcare delivery systems.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  1. Recognize the advantages that single-specialty networks offer under capitated medical care. 2. Understand the self-interests and tensions involved in integrating these networks into vertical networks of primary care physicians, hospitals, and associated specialists. 3. Understand the rationale of "stacking" horizontal networks within a vertical system.
authors.affiliation: Eye Consultants of Atlanta, GA 30309, USA.
authors.forename: T S
authors.initials: TS
authors.lastname: Harbin
mesh_terms: D019058:Community Networks / Q000191:economics / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003284:Contract Services / Q000191:economics / Q000458:organization & administration; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D019033:Delivery of Health Care, Integrated / Q000191:economics / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004465:Economic Competition; D004470:Economics, Medical; D004496:Education, Continuing; D006280:Health Workforce; D006801:Humans; D007373:Interinstitutional Relations; D010067:Ownership; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010820:Physicians / Q000600:supply & distribution; D010934:Planning Techniques; D013038:Specialization