In this episode of Healthy Careers, host Maddie Traylor welcomes Dr. Mike Behr, a veteran orthopedic surgeon and Executive Vice President at IntraHealth Group, for an in-depth conversation on the PSA (Professional Services Agreement) model and its role in transforming orthopedic practice management.

Dr. Behr shares how OrthoAtlanta's strategic alignment with Piedmont Healthcare under the PSA structure has supported growth, improved autonomy, and enhanced care delivery. From recruitment challenges in a competitive job market to the shifts from fee-for-service to value-based care, this episode provides a masterclass in practice structure, physician alignment, and healthcare economics.

Perfect for CEOs, COOs, physician recruiters, practice administrators, private equity-backed MSOs, and orthopedic leaders, this conversation offers actionable insight on navigating today’s healthcare business landscape while building a sustainable, physician-centered model.

Key Takeaways:

• The PSA model bridges independence and integration, offering stability while preserving physician leadership.

• Recruitment is more competitive than ever, and clarity on compensation, values, and location matters.

• Orthopedic groups must embrace value-based care, transparency, and strategic alignment to grow sustainably.

• Private practice is not dead—but it requires innovative thinking, strong partnerships, and data-driven leadership.

• Dr. Behr’s experience proves that career longevity in orthopedics is possible with adaptability and a strategic mindset.

Episode Highlights:

00:36 Meet Dr. Mike Behr: EVP and Orthopedic Veteran

01:15 Inspiration from Family and Early Career Foundations

03:18 Fellowship Training and the Road to OrthoAtlanta

06:09 OrthoAtlanta’s Growth & the PSA Model Explained

16:06 The Realities of Recruiting in Today’s Orthopedic Market

18:11 Competitive Landscape: New Grads & Contract Negotiations

19:13 Market Dynamics: Location vs Talent Acquisition

21:01 Transparency in Compensation and Retention

22:50 Private Practice Pressures and Hospital Relationships

25:14 Fee-for-Service vs Value-Based: Future of Ortho Payment Models

34:33 Candid Advice for Young Physicians Entering the Field

37:26 Wrap-Up and Reflections on Leadership in Healthcare

Keywords:

PSA model in healthcare,
Professional Services Agreement orthopedics,
Orthopedic group alignment models,
OrthoAtlanta partnership Piedmont,
Physician employment vs independent practice,
Healthcare M&A and orthopedic groups,
Recruiting orthopedic surgeons,
Value-based care in orthopedics,
Private equity vs hospital alignment,
Medical group practice models,
Compensation transparency in healthcare,
Physician recruitment trends,
Ortho practice management podcast,
IntraHealth Group orthopedic leadership,

Connect with Dr. Mike Behr:

• LinkedIn: Michael Behr, MD, MBA
• Visit IntraHealth Group
• Visit OrthoAtlanta