The effect of financial incentives on physicians′ behaviour in health maintenance organizations

Examines the relationship between the presence of financial incentives and their effect on physician behaviour in health maintenance organizations (HMOs). By reviewing the scope and dimensions of both HMOs and financial incentives, a foundation is laid for the review of the current empirical evidence. Further analysis and conceptual development is given to this topic by stating the limitations of existing research - in the confounding variables, in the complexity of incentives, and in the unanswered questions of quality of care - and by proposing innovative ways of studying the "other aspects of physician behaviour" not previously considered. Questions and implications are raised for future research and practice.