This not only allows for sharing of risk, but also sharing of expertise while maintaining patient choice. Suddenly, an orthopaedic surgeon finds himself or herself on the same side as the patient with regard to managed care. When presented with an orthopaedic problem it is in the surgeon's best interest to keep that patient healthy and to take care of the orthopaedic problem as quickly and efficiently as possible. Capitation does not equate with denial of care. Capitation involves development of orthopaedic delivery systems that promote high quality patient care that will be more efficient, reasonable, and sensitive to patient needs and desires.
Patient satisfaction is a significant component in the success of a capitated practice.
Patient satisfaction allows the orthopaedic surgeon to compete more aggressively for contracts based on quality service and not just bargain prices. The driving force behind decision-making regarding patient care rests with orthopaedic surgeons because now we are at risk, not some utilization review committee composed of internists interested only in maximizing profit. No longer is there a need to hire a myriad of billing and collection people to chase after insurance companies or IPAs for ever decreasing fees. In actuality, a capitated environment distills the physician-patient relationship down to the basics of providing care in an environment in which financial incentives are based on patient satisfaction and a successful outcome. Capitation allows the surgeon to reestablish control of the domain of patient care, while in a position to assure quality service in a cost conscious environment.