What is a defining characteristic of a group practice without walls?

A group practice without walls is designed to optimize the collaborative efforts of different healthcare providers while allowing them to maintain their independent operations. This characteristic is essential because it highlights the flexibility and autonomy afforded to physicians who remain affiliated with their own individual practices.

In such a setup, physicians can share resources, expertise, and certain services (like billing, diagnostics, or even marketing) without losing their independence. This model encourages cooperation among healthcare professionals, while still preserving the unique identity and operations of each provider's practice.

The arrangement usually leads to the establishment of contracts for shared services, which enables the participating physicians to access economies of scale and leverage collective purchasing of medical supplies or administrative services. This approach is efficient and can enhance patient care by integrating services while still differentiating each physician’s practice.