Doctor network left intact in antitrust case; group practice must alter some agreements

Article Abstract:

A federal judge in Wisconsin, in a case brought against the Marshfield Clinic by Blue Cross & Blue Shield United of Wisconsin, has ruled that Marshfield's network of rural satellite clinics violates federal antitrust law. While the judge allowed the network to remain intact, he ordered Marshfield to eliminate its noncompetitive agreements with physician employees and remove its limitation on hospital privileges for non-Marshfield doctors. The judge also reduced Blue Cross's jury-awarded damages from $48.5 million to $17 million. Blue Cross may request a new trial for damages only.

HEALTH SERVICES, Health Maintenance Organizations, HMO Medical Centers, All Other Outpatient Care Centers, Neighborhood Health Centers, Health aspects, Cases, Community health services, Group medical practice, Wisconsin, Rural health services, Marshfield Clinic, Blue Cross and Blue Shield United of Wisconsin

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Private pension plan: a good retirement option

Article Abstract:

Physicians should carefully consider the after-tax cash flow of income in retirement planning. While traditional qualified plans such as IRAs, 401k's and profit-sharing plans are popular, they also have hefty administrative costs and come with many restrictions. Private pension plans are funded with after-tax contributions and allow for income-tax-free withdrawals and are not subject to other restrictions placed on qualified plans.

Pension, health, and welfare funds, Pension Funds & Benefit Plans, Pension Funds, Physicians & Surgeons, Offices of Physicians (except Mental Health Specialists), Compensation and benefits, Physicians, Medical professions

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