Years ago, one of my former partners had a case in which a stock broker built up a huge book of business, only to have his clients “reassigned” to a famous heavy-hitter at the firm that took over the brokerage.

I know. In light of tons of illegal profits, complying with the federal anti-kickback law (“AKS”) is a hard sell.

But, it’s easier than a prison cell. And better than paying a $125 million fine.

I knew that I had taken the wrong job after my first day at the firm.

More than thirty years have passed, so now I can laugh about it. But back then, I thought I was screwed.

I stood there with the other workers, a large rotating table separating us. As the parts moved by we each glued on another piece until Mary took them and put them in a box.

His comment still sticks in my craw. The so-called expert said something like, “In the new economy, physicians need to lower their income expectations.”

Why?

When I was 17 I worked at a McDonald’s. The store was a franchise location.

Franchise models exist in medicine as well as in hamburgers. For example, in the urgent care center market.

The hospital approaches you and says that they are building an ACO – won’t you join with them and become an employee of their sponsored foundation or medical group?

Where are the flying cars and the metal and glass houses, and the robots walking dogs? I was promised that future and it’s not here and I’m mad as hell.

Are you a Chevy dealer or a doctor?

Is your group being governed or governed? Yes, it’s a trick question. But the answer might just be a joke on you.