Hospitals and ancillary services such as X-ray, MRI and other imaging services have long been integral to neurosurgical practice. Neurosurgeon ownership of these facilities, however, is a relatively new development. To further discussion and understanding of the complex issues involved, the Bulletin ’s cover section explores many of the issues related to physician-owned hospitals and ancillary services.
Two former AANS presidents, Stan Pelofsky and Robert Ratcheson, face off with compelling arguments for and against further development of physician-owned specialty hospitals. As one among the approximately 25 percent of neurosurgeons who own in-office ancillary services, Tom Kopitnik shares his practice’s experience of launching an imaging center and provides a financial framework for those considering a similar venture. The legal issues that currently impact physician ownership of ancillary service facilities are explored by Dave Atteberry and colleagues.
Whether one views such neurosurgeon ownership as a welcome innovation, as a departure from professionalism, or simply with a healthy curiosity, it seems certain that the disincentives of government regulation in this area are being counteracted by powerful incentives to bolster shrinking reimbursement by adding revenue streams while gaining greater quality control over areas of patient care. Given the recent trend toward aligning reimbursement with quality patient care, neurosurgeon-owned hospitals and ancillaries may be an idea that’s here to stay.