The transformation of the medical marketplace has major implications f
or the physician workforce. Findings are reported here from national s
urveys of physicians, hospitals, health maintenance organizations (HWO
s), preferred provider organizations (PPOs), and medical group practic
es conducted in 1995 to measure the impact of those changes. Physician
s in higher HMO penetration states were more likely to report serious
problems with several aspects of medical practice and patient care and
were more likely to perceive oversupply in their specialty areas and
changes in their practice arrangements, Some divergence is noted in vi
ews of supply between physicians and those that employ them. The major
ity of physicians would still recommend medicine and their specialty a
s a career.