Arizona deal combines orthopedic, neurology practices

Two Arizona physician groups have agreed to a business agreement creating one of the most expansive specialty organizations in the state.

Effective Oct. 1, CORE Institute, which bills itself as the largest orthopedic group in Arizona, will employ all providers and employees of the Arizona Neurological Institute, effectively creating a neurological division, said Dr. David Jacofsky, CEO of the CORE Institute. As a result, CORE will have about 80 physicians and 120 other clinicians providing musculoskeletal, neurological and rehabilitation care.

“This will better position us for the economics of healthcare going forward,” Jacofsky said. “And most importantly, it will allow us to become one of the only organizations in the country to provide an ortho-neuro-rehab continuum.”

The Arizona Neurological Institute said it saw benefits to creating a more comprehensive care path for its patients. “Musculoskeletal care, rehabilitation and the neurosciences are deeply intertwined, and many conditions require the integrated approach of both specialties, making this a natural partnership,” Dr. Atul Syal, president of the Arizona Neurological Institute, said in a release.

CORE has 12 locations throughout the state, Arizona Neurological has nine. The groups did not say if sites would be consolidated.

Both groups also have wide-ranging affiliations with Banner Health hospitals.

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