Private equity ownership of ophthalmology practices: how does it impact clinical research?

Abstract

Purpose of review: To explore the impact of private equity ownership of ophthalmology practices on the success of their clinical research programs.

Recent findings: Private equity partnership in the clinical research space has been steadily occurring over the past decades. In addition to contract research organizations, private equity groups have also consolidated multiple independent clinical research networks. By investing in an increasing number of retina practices, one private equity group is attempting to create a synergistic relationship between clinical practice and clinical research with the goal of supporting a larger, more robust clinical research network.

Summary: Although there are physician concerns about the potential deleterious effects of private equity ownership on clinical research capabilities, private equity support has the potential to be an important stimulus for clinical research growth.

Video abstract: http://links.lww.com/COOP/A48.