Independent Rheumatology Practices Face Challenges Amid Changing Landscape

Independent practices that need more guidance can contact the Association of Independent Medicine and look into the Break Up Big Medicine initiative from the American Economic Liberties Project, Dr. Fernandez said.^2,3

Concerns Over Private Equity Ownership

Dr. Feldman shared a few concerns that rheumatologists may have to consider when considering private equity ownership:

• Profit goals that may overshadow patient needs,
• Potential conflicts between revenue priorities and medical ethics,
• Higher costs and administrative fees that are passed on to patients and employers,
• A loss of locally owned, community-centered care, and
• Reduced physician control, with investors often dominating key decisions.

If considering a contract with a private equity or other corporate partner, make sure to consult with health-law counsel, tax/accounting advisors and a corporate practice of medicine specialist in your state before moving forward, Dr. Fernandez advised. Lots of moving parts need to be considered.

Vanessa Caceres is a medical writer in Bradenton, Florida.

References

1. Kane CK. Policy research perspectives: Physician practice characteristics in 2024: Private practices account for less than half of physicians in most specialties. 2025. https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2024-prp-pp-characteristics.pdf.
2. Association of Independent Medicine. https://www.associationforindependentmedicine.org/.
3. Break Up Big Medicine. American Economic Liberties Project. https://www.breakupbigmedicine.com/.