STRATEGIC ALLIANCES IN HEALTH-CARE - OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE VETERANS AFFAIRS HEALTH-CARE SYSTEM

Strategic alliances are proving to be effective strategies for respond ing and adapting to changing environments, and as such they offer the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system valuable op portunities for accomplishing the goals of its major reorganization ef fort. This article begins with an examination of basic strategic-allia nce structures that are employed across many different types of indust ries. Next, consideration is given to the ways in which these basic al liance structures may be adapted to the unique organizations and indiv iduals that serve as providers, purchasers, and consumers of health se rvices. Finally, this article explores how models of strategic allianc e in healthcare can be tailored to the specific needs and constraints of the VA healthcare system through an examination of existing and pot ential alliance opportunities.