GW, UHS, MFA Negotiations Progress

As reported on Oct. 3, the George Washington University, GW Medical Faculty Associates (MFA) and United Health Services (UHS) are engaging in negotiations regarding a new physician group affiliation that will sustain both GW's academic medical enterprise and the provision. MFA and GW leaders provided an update in early October, noting that an initial agreement had been reached on some important financial terms, which provides the foundation for continued discussion and negotiations.

There are a number of issues that remain in the next phase of negotiations, including a shared approach to governance, leadership and operational matters, as well as the overall composition of the physicians, clinicians and administrative staff in the practice. While no final decisions have been made, meetings are taking place this week and next week with department chairs and leaders to solicit input and consultation on the process and future structure.

UHS has created preliminary physician staffing forecasts that are currently being discussed with department chairs, and leaders from the MFA and the School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS). Subsequently, UHS will also create clinical and administrative staffing forecasts for ongoing clinical operations, which will also be reviewed and discussed with department chairs and leaders from the MFA and SMHS.

If negotiations are successful, UHS' physician practice affiliate plans to directly employ a significant number of MFA physicians, clinicians and staff, through a new not-for-profit physician practice group that serves GW Hospital, Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center and outpatient sites. These staffing forecasts will be analyzed by GW/SMHS, to ensure that they satisfy UHS' commitment to meet the academic needs of the SMHS.

These forecasts have also been shared with MFA leadership. As these reviews take place, input from SMHS Chairs, GW and the MFA will be considered as part of the process.

The university, SMHS, the MFA and UHS are seeking to identify the best path forward - one that supports MFA physicians, clinicians, and staff, and also maintains the excellence of the SMHS teaching and research while meeting the clinical needs of the hospital and community.