Emerging trends affecting ambulatory care: findings from an environmental assessment.

Deloitte & Touche LLP, in conjunction with VHA, Inc., conducts an annual environmental assessment of trends affecting the health care industry. The annual study assesses the impact of these trends on both providers and purchasers. This article focuses on specific trends from our current study that suggest the need for significant change in the way ambulatory care is delivered. The article examines 10 key trends in overview, takes a closer look at four critical areas with special impact on ambulatory care, and concludes with a discussion of how the industry is responding.