A solo practice is one in which a physician is self-employed, without partners or employment affiliations with other practice organizations. Although previously a common model, this type of practice is becoming less popular now though it is still strongly preferred by some internists.
Group practices are typically divided into single-specialty and multi-specialty practices. The defining characteristic of single-specialty practices is the presence of 2 or more physicians providing patients with 1 specific type of care (i.e., primary care or a specific subspecialty). Multi-specialty group practices are defined as those offering various types of specialties within one organization.
An employed physician practice is one in which physicians are the employees. Hospitals that purchase and manage existing solo and group practices, or who directly hire physicians, are employed physician practices.
A Physician-Hospital Organization (PHO) is an entity formed by a hospital and a group of physicians in order to negotiate and obtain contracts with insurance plans and employers.
Concierge medicine is a practice model in which a patient pays an annual fee or retainer to a primary care physician which covers most services. Lab work, x-rays, etc. are often excluded and are charged for separately. In return, the physician agrees to provide enhanced care as well as a commitment to a smaller patient load in order to spend sufficient time with each patient.
Concierge medicine is also known as retainer medicine, membership medicine, cash-only practice, and direct care.
Literally meaning "place holder," locum tenens is an alternative to more permanent employment. These positions are temporary (from a few weeks up to a year) and are offered by practices, hospitals, or healthcare organizations that have an unfilled clinical need. The compensation rate is often higher than what the permanent position would offer. This type of practice offers physicians the opportunity to work in a practice or an area for a short period of time, enabling them to see what a practice type or location is like without committing to long-term employment.