These groups will select hospitals, specialists and other care providers in their market area to form vertically integrated systems. Seven groups have been started with hundreds of PCPs in three states. Advocates also receives a very small percentage of revenues on contracts Advocates can bring the physicians. The physicians are otherwise not at any risk for payment to Advocates. The Company offers physicians the lowest cost of any known group of similar quality.
Advocates then arranges for the medical group's capital requirements.
Self-funding is encouraged, but suitable capital partners are sought for medical groups where required. Advocates recommends that physicians do not sell a controlling interest to any combination of non-physician capital partners. Physicians should remain in control without compromising the quality of care. This last function is provided by AIMS entering into long-term service agreements with the PCP group. AIMS has acquired or contractually affiliated companies to provide all needed services.