Physician referral--the AMA view

Todd and Horan present the American Medical Association's view of the of physician referral of patients to health facilites in which the has a financial interest. Studies of physician referral by the government and the AMA raise additional questions about the between physician ownership and utilization of services. The AMA against banning legitimate investments, an action that it believes adversely affect access to care, the introduction of new technology, and to improve care and reduce costs. It proposes the development of guidelines on physician ownership and referral practices that should: (a) standards for investment options, (b) establishment of a process help physicians determine the legality of proposed investment in advance, (c) establishment of a phase-in period for federal regulations and/or and required divestiture. (KIE abstract)