In recent years, a growing number of hospitals have acquired private medical practices, including independent neurology practices. While these hospital acquisitions are often promoted as partnerships offering stability and resources, the reality is that hospital-employed neurologists often experience reduced income, increased workload, and limited growth opportunities.
For neurologists looking to maximize their earnings, maintain autonomy, and continue offering personalized care, staying independent is proving to be the smarter path, especially when supported by a robust network like First Choice Neurology, the largest private practice, physician-owned neurology group in the United States.
The Hidden Costs of Hospital Acquisitions
The Hidden Costs of Hospital AcquisitionsA study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) uncovered a significant financial impact on nonsurgical specialists following hospital acquisitions. The data revealed that:
• Physicians working in hospital-integrated settings experienced an average income reduction of $9,652.
• There was a relative decrease of 2.4% in physician earnings post-acquisition.
These losses don’t stop at salary. Neurologists also miss out on income from ancillary services and patient referrals, which are redirected to the hospital system.
Workload Increases Without Proportional Compensation
Beyond lost revenue, neurologists working in hospital-owned practices often find themselves working longer hours with no increase in pay. Studies show:
• Independent physicians average 57.6 hours per week.
• Hospital-employed physicians average 60.1 hours per week.
This increase in workload, combined with limited financial incentives, creates a recipe for physician burnout.
Advantages of Independent Neurology Practices with First Choice Neurology
Remaining in private practice doesn’t mean going it alone. At First Choice Neurology, independent neurologists gain access to a powerful network of resources, revenue streams, and patient services that rival those of hospital systems, without the red tape and revenue loss.
Here’s how First Choice Neurology empowers neurologists to grow their practice and income:
In-House Infusion Centers
Provide patients with access to infusion therapy directly in your office. This improves patient compliance and retention while keeping revenue within your practice.
MRI & Imaging Center
Offer on-site or affiliated imaging services for faster diagnosis, convenience, and increased practice revenue.
Participation in Research Studies
Contribute to medical innovation through clinical research trials, expanding your treatment options, and generating additional income.
At-Home EEG Services
Offer convenient diagnostic testing at home, enhancing patient care and expanding your service capabilities.
Neuropsychology Services
Gain access to in-house neuropsychologists to provide comprehensive cognitive evaluations, particularly for memory disorders and behavioral health.
Occupational and Physical Therapy (OT & PT)
Integrated therapy services improve patient outcomes while offering additional revenue opportunities within your practice.
GUIDE Model for Cognitive Disorders
Support your patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s through a specialized care model that includes cognitive training, caregiver support, and more.
Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Centers
Join a network that supports multidisciplinary MS care, combining neurology, infusion therapy, rehab, and clinical trials in one collaborative approach.
Sleep Centers
Provide sleep studies for the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, insomnia, somnambulism, and narcolepsy.
Pain Management Center
Provide a full range of solutions for patients with different conditions, from diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation.
Moreover, hospital salaries are typically capped to meet fair market value regulations, meaning neurologists could work for decades without seeing a substantial salary increase, regardless of performance or patient volume.
Keep Your Independence and Grow with First Choice Neurology
Choosing to remain independent doesn’t mean choosing to struggle. With First Choice Neurology, neurologists get the best of both worlds:
• Autonomy over clinical and financial decisions
• Access to advanced ancillary services
• Streamlined administrative support
• A respected national brand and referral network
Most importantly, revenue from office visits, procedures, and diagnostics stays with you, not the hospital.
Ready to Take Control of Your Independent Neurology Practice?
Hospital acquisitions may promise stability, but the reality often includes revenue loss, long hours, and capped earnings. Don’t sacrifice your independence or financial potential. Join First Choice Neurology and discover how staying independent can lead to greater success, better patient care, and long-term professional satisfaction. Take your private practice to the next level. Contact a representative for physician opportunities.