What’s the difference between an independent clinic and a hospital-owned clinic?

 In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, patients face a multitude of choices when it comes to selecting the most appropriate care settings for their needs. Among these choices are independent clinics and hospital-owned clinics, each offering unique advantages. Understanding these differences is crucial for patients to ensure they are selecting the right care when they need it most.

Independent clinics are typically owned and operated by physicians. These physician-run clinics emphasize a patient-first approach, allowing practitioners the flexibility to tailor services to meet the specific needs of their patient population. Additionally, due to the size of the operation, practitioners can build strong close relationships with their patients and operate in a more collaborative environment with other practitioners to decide on the right care for each patient.

In contrast, hospital-owned clinics are integrated into larger healthcare systems. This leads hospital-owned outpatient clinics to be harder to navigate for patients and come with additional costs to patients.

What financial considerations should patients be aware of?

Cost is a significant factor when choosing between independent and hospital-owned clinics. Independent clinics may offer more cost-effective services due to their lower overhead costs and streamlined operations.

Hospital-owned clinics frequently come with extra costs, including administration coverage and facility fees. These facility fees are billed to patients on top of the care service, acting as an additional expense for the use of hospital resources. As a result, patients often face higher-than-anticipated hospital bills. The amount of these fees can vary significantly based on the provider, the services received, and the patient’s insurance coverage.

Opting for a physician-led independent clinic like Nexus Health offers patients a more economical treatment option by eliminating those extra fees. Beyond facility charges, hospital systems often come with higher treatment costs. A study by the Community Oncology Alliance reveals that cancer care can be up to up to 50% less expensive in an independent oncology practice compared to a traditional hospital setting.

Ultimately, the decision between choosing an independent clinic or a hospital-owned clinic hinges on individual patient needs and preferences. Both types of clinics are vital components of the healthcare ecosystem, and understanding their distinctions empowers patients to make informed choices that reflect their goals and healthcare objectives.

Why Nexus Health?

 At Nexus Health, our providers are dedicated to the “triple aim” of healthcare: the right care, at the right place, at the right time. We deliver the appropriate treatment based on each individual’s specific needs using evidence-based practices. Our clinics provide convenient access to the latest technology and treatments in a timely, cost-effective manner. Our multi-specialty practice means we can provide a vast range of services, including preventative measures.

Our specialties include:

• Breast surgery
• Dermatology
• ENT
• Gynecology
• Interventional pain medicine
• Medical oncology
• Orthopedic surgery and services
• Primary care with concierge options
• Radiation oncology

We’re here to help

At Nexus Health, we’re here to help you navigate your care journey. We offer multiple services and expert providers to meet your needs.