STRATEGIC BUSINESS PLANNING FOR SMALL PRIMARY CARE PRACTICES IN THE AFFORDABLE CARE ERA: A HEURISTIC MODEL

Hendrikus van Bulck USC Sumter

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study is to present a heuristic model to guide small primary care practices and solo physicians in making strategic business choices. There is widespread concern among independent primary care physicians that they may not be able to survive the far-reaching implications of the Affordable Care Act of 2010 (ACA.) Especially in rural areas, many of these practitioners are concerned that their practices have insufficient capacity and economic resources to provide adequate medical care for a new wave of previously uninsured patients. They are also worried about the cost, quality and patient access under ACA.

This study searches for a consensus in published opinions, and reviews and summarizes

various empirical studies. Also, this study proposes a practical strategic decision model for independent physicians.