Primary care physicians weigh in on the trade-offs between health system employment and independent practice

A qualitative interview study of 30 U.S. primary care physicians identified five major themes regarding the day-to-day experiences of independent practitioners and those employed by health systems.

Health system physicians reported less autonomy in scheduling and operations but greater financial and legal protections.

Health systems also offered embedded clinical support teams and easier access to specialists, while independent physicians managed needs with limited staff. ...