Chapter 19 – Evolution of gastroenterology practice: medicare reform, payment systems, and changing landscape (Science Direct)

Over the past 50 years, gastroenterology has undergone transformative changes, driven by shifts in practice models, healthcare reimbursement, regulatory frameworks, and patient care approaches. A significant trend has been the movement of gastroenterologists from private practices to hospital-based and large group practice models. This shift, shaped by factors such as collaborative care needs, economies of scale, evolving patient demographics, and access to resources, offers benefits like cost savings, improved negotiating power, and access to advanced technologies. However, it also brings challenges like integration complexities and reduced autonomy for physicians.