For the doctors of the Palo Alto Medical Clinic, the period between 1930 and 1980 was one of gradual evolution. While the group embraced innovation and growth, its underlying organization remained much the same. In 1981, however, that pace changed. With the creation of the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, the group launched into a period of more dynamic structural change that continues into the 21st century.

None of these changes was made in a vacuum or on a capricious whim. Each was prompted by external developments in the health care environment that, if not addressed, could have threatened the Clinic’s existence. By shifting its structural configuration, the Clinic has been able to protect its core values. The result is that today, the physician partnership finds itself stronger than ever, and is still able to place its highest priority on community-based, top-quality patient care.