THE ECONOMICS OF UROLOGIC PRACTICE IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Our nation's health care has been undergoing an economic revolution. T he practice of urology has not escaped. Speculation regarding the econ omics of urologic practice in the twenty-first century must be based o n the continuation of policy trends begun over the last decade by gove rnment and managed care coupled with the impact of changes in the scie nce of urology, shifting population demographics, and changing social factors. The hallmarks of the years ahead include increased physician accountability, expanded use of clinical care guidelines, continued re lentless penetration of managed care, and reduced reimbursement for su rgical services.