OrthoLoneStar launched on Jan. 1 as the largest independent orthopedic practice in Texas.
The super-group announced formation in November 2019 as a venture between six orthopedic practices: Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, Azalea Orthopedics, Carrell Clinic, Texas Orthopaedic Associates, Texas Orthopedics Sports & Rehab Associates and Fondren Orthopedic Group.
The group is composed of 154 physicians and 1,070 employees caring for patients across 41 locations in Texas. The merger took around two-and-a-half years. COO Adam Maurer said the group aims to become even bigger.
"One of the most compelling reasons for our combination is centered on growth, and we consequently feel there are many avenues through which we can achieve that," said Mr. Maurer. "Most notably, our mission is to serve communities across the state of Texas, and so we feel there are some geographies where we still can identify and partner with new divisions to expand our geographic coverage."
The ability to gather and use more data from the larger group is also attractive as the healthcare industry moves away from fee-for-service and more toward value-based care. With combined divisions, Mr. Maurer said the practice is equipped to develop thoughtful value-based care and alternative payment models that benefit patients and payers.
"We feel ideally placed to bring quality through the entire episode of care for musculoskeletal issues, and believe our physicians are the best partner for patients through their entire experience," he said.
As a larger organization, the practice can manage ancillary services for the patient from diagnostic tests through rehabilitation, therapy and durable medical equipment in addition to surgical services. OrthoLoneStar is currently engaged with physician practices interested in joining the group.