🔒Independent medicine is not disappearing in CT — it’s evolving (opinion)

Independent medicine isn’t dead. It’s evolving right here in Connecticut. If you follow healthcare news, you’ve likely seen headlines about hospital mergers, private equity buyouts and the rise of employed physicians. These stories can give the impression that independent physician offices are a thing of the past. But as an independent physician practicing in Connecticut, I can assure you that independent medicine is not only alive, it’s thriving and adapting to better serve our communities. In Connecticut, 600-plus physicians, physician assistants and advanced practice registered nurses have come together to form what is known as Southern New England Healthcare Organization (SoNE HEALTH), a clinically integrated network. We run our own private practices but collaborate to share resources, improve care and control costs. This model allows us to remain independent while ensuring our patients receive the high-quality, affordable care they deserve. Most importantly, our network is led and controlled by the physicians who deliver the medical care. One of the main benefits of this model is that it helps keep care more affordable. Operating an independent practice is typically less expensive than a large hospital-based system. Our lower costs mean we can pass savings on to our patients. In a state like Connecticut, where healthcare costs continue to rise, having independent practices focused on cost-effective care is more important than ever. Another key benefit is increased access to care. Independent physicians offer more personalized care, shorter wait times and more flexible appointment hours. By working together, we can refer patients to trusted specialists, ensuring they get the right care in a timely manner. However, even this model faces challenges. Insurance companies are making it harder for networks like ours to thrive. Rising administrative burdens, such as prior authorization, lower reimbursement rates and increasing overhead costs, make it difficult to maintain our independence. The time spent on paperwork takes away from the time we could be spending with patients. And in Connecticut, where Medicaid reimbursement is often too low to cover the cost of care, these challenges are even more pronounced. It’s easy to see why many physicians choose to leave independent practice for a hospital system or other employed model, where they don’t have to deal with these burdens or the business of running a medical practice. But we’re not backing down. By collaborating in this network of independent physicians, we share resources, streamline administrative processes and focus on what matters most: providing the best care for our patients. This model allows us to stay independent and committed to our communities while adapting to the challenges of today’s healthcare system. Independent medicine is not disappearing in Connecticut — it’s evolving. With support for networks like ours, we can ensure that patients across the state continue to receive high-quality, affordable care, while also allowing physicians to maintain independent, patient-centered practices. Dr. Khuram Ghumman is with East Granby Family Practice LLC.