Independent Practice at a Crossroads: AIMPA President Outlines Path to Sustainability
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the independent physician practice faces an existential threat,burdened by administrative complexities and financial pressures that have eroded its viability over the past two decades. Paul Berggreen, MD, president of the American Independent medical Practice Association (AIMPA) and chief strategy officer of GI Alliance, recently discussed the critical changes needed to ensure independent practices not only survive but thrive.
Dr. BerggreenS insights, shared with Becker’s Healthcare on August 8, 2025, underscore a growing concern within the medical community: the decline of independent practice impacts physician autonomy, patient care, and the overall healthcare landscape. His work centers on identifying and advocating for policies that alleviate the burdens hindering independent practitioners.
The Mounting Challenges to Independence
For years, independent practices have been grappling with increasing administrative demands, including prior authorizations, complex billing processes, and ever-changing regulatory requirements. These administrative hurdles divert physicians’ time and resources away from patient care, contributing to burnout and dissatisfaction. Together, independent practices often lack the negotiating power of larger healthcare systems, resulting in lower reimbursement rates and financial instability.
“The administrative burden is crushing,” a senior official stated,echoing the sentiments of many independent physicians. “It’s not about the clinical work anymore; it’s about navigating a labyrinth of paperwork and regulations.”
AIMPA’s Priorities for Change
AIMPA is actively working to address these challenges through advocacy and collaboration. Key priorities include streamlining administrative processes, promoting fair reimbursement policies, and fostering a more supportive regulatory environment for independent practices.Dr. Berggreen emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach, involving policymakers, payers, and healthcare organizations.
specifically,AIMPA is pushing for reforms to prior authorization requirements,advocating for standardized billing practices,and seeking greater transparency in payer contracts. The organization also aims to empower independent practices with resources and tools to improve their operational efficiency and financial performance.
A Call for Systemic reform
Dr. Berggreen believes that basic changes are needed to create a sustainable future for independent practice. He argues that the current healthcare system often incentivizes consolidation, making it tough for independent practices to compete.
“We need to level the playing field,” Dr. Berggreen explained.”Independent practices offer unique value – personalized care, local expertise, and a commitment to community – but they need a fair chance to succeed.”
He suggests exploring alternative payment models that reward quality and value, rather than volume. Additionally, he advocates for policies that promote interoperability and data sharing, enabling independent practices to seamlessly connect with other healthcare providers and deliver coordinated care. .
The Future of Independent Practice
The path forward for independent practice is undoubtedly challenging, but Dr.Berggreen remains optimistic.
Why: Independent physician practices are facing increasing challenges that threaten their existence. These challenges include administrative burdens, lower reimbursement rates, and a healthcare system that favors consolidation.
Who: Paul Berggreen, MD, president of AIMPA, is leading the charge to address these issues. AIMPA is actively working with policymakers, payers, and healthcare organizations. Independent physicians and their patients are directly affected.
What: AIMPA is advocating for systemic reforms, including streamlined administrative processes, fair reimbursement policies, and alternative payment models.
**How did it end?:
