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The Fight to Save Independent Physicians in California

Matthew Robinson, CEO of the Physician Association of California, reveals why independent physicians have dropped from approximately 50% to 33% in just 12 years—and the critical advocacy work being done to preserve physician autonomy, reduce administrative burdens, and ensure healthcare access across California.

Discussion Topics:

• The dramatic decline of independent physicians in California over the past decade
• How practice acquisition deals actually work (3-5 year contracts, multiple sales)
• Why medical school debt and burnout drive doctors into employment
• Legislative wins: standardized credentialing and administrative burden reduction
• The challenges of evaluating AI scribes and healthcare technology innovations
• Whether concierge medicine offers a sustainable alternative model
• What PAC is doing to support practice transitions and educate medical students
• Why independent practices matter for healthcare costs and patient access

About Matthew Robinson:

Matthew Robinson serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Physician Association of California (PAC), an organization founded two years ago to represent and advocate for independent physicians who operate as small business owners with their own practices. PAC focuses on supporting independent physicians through challenges including reimbursement issues, administrative burdens, prior authorization, liability insurance costs, and out-of-pocket expenses.

About Vincent Catalano:

Vincent "Vinny" Catalano is the founder and CEO of CLEAR Healthcare Solutions, bringing decades of expertise in employee benefits and healthcare consulting. Through the CLEARly Beneficial Podcast, he explores innovative approaches to healthcare benefits, cost management, and system transformation with industry leaders who are driving real change.

This episode is brought to you by HealthNEXT. HealthNEXT helps employers build cultures of health and well-being that reduce healthcare costs, enhance workforce productivity, and create sustainable competitive advantages through data-driven population health strategies.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical or financial advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider or benefits administrator for personalized guidance regarding your specific situation.