Single-specialty networks, carve-outs, and consolidations.

Throughout the country health care provider groups seem to be merging at a record pace. This consolidation sharply brings into question the traditional role specialty providers have played within the health care system--causing many specialty practitioners to evaluate the myriad of specialty organizations being formed (IPA, PPM, MSO). A single-specialty organization that is able to deliver focused, consistent services to the payer that demonstrates value beyond the clutter of today's multi-specialty groups and PPMs is a very attractive entity to the managed care market. Some of the most attractive specialties for development of networks, carve-out products, and consolidations include oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, ophthalmology, and occupational medicine practices.