Operating costs for orthopedists increasing

Healthcare Financial Management, March, 2004

Operating costs for orthopedists continue to rise, according to the new Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) Cost Survey for Orthopedic Practice. The 2003 report is based on 2002 data. The survey attributes the increases to high professional liability insurance premiums and staff costs. According to the survey, total median operating costs increased 12.3 percent from 2001 to 2002 measured per full-time equivalent (FTE) physician. Staffing costs increased by 8.1 percent, while professional liability insurance increased by 26.1 percent per FTE physician.

To read about the MGMA survey, go to www.mgma.com/press/2 003ortho.cfm.