Abstract
This study quantifies the value that physicians bring to their local community. The physician's value is assessed in 3 economic arenas: as a major provider of health care services, as an employer, and as a generator of new jobs within the community. This is a descriptive report with data analyzed using internal documents, government statistics, research reports, and Medical Group Management Association data. The results indicate that approximately 1,800 physicians contribute $1.84 billion (or 10.8%) toward the $17 billion local economy. The conclusion is that attending physicians have a major impact on the economies in which they practice.