Culture clash the impact of culture on physician-hospital integration.

Hospitals and physicians that are undertaking a merger should take five key steps to avoid a culture clash that could derail the integration initiative: Clearly identify who the physician and hospital leaders will be. Form a small, agile work team to manage the transition. Communicate with staff every step of the way. Be sensitive to feelings of uncertainty that staff may experience as a result of the change. Implement a clear ongoing process to promote cultural alignment.