Implications of the presence of private equity in ophthalmology: an academic perspective.

Abstract

Private equity acquisitions of ophthalmology private practices have been steadily increasing over the past decade with far-reaching implications. Ophthalmology departments at academic medical centers are not insulated from the impact of this trend. The limited data on this subject in the ophthalmology literature identify the growing number of practice acquisitions. However, the lack of transparency obfuscates a clear understanding of the effect on patients and practice patterns. Leaders at academic medical centers need to be aware of surrounding practice consolidation because of private equity as this could affect revenue streams and patient referral patterns, accelerating expansion. Trainees are entering an uncertain job marketplace that may create a compelling argument to practice in an academic medical center ophthalmology department.