The young surgeon today, having just completed his training, is presented immediately with the problem of how he might best utilize his newly acquired knowledge of surgery to enter the mainstream of the delivery of health care. The problem is a complex one and is compounded by the impact of present or pending federal legislation. He may be attracted by group practice, the subtleties of which are not always readily apparent. It is apropos, therefore, to reflect for a moment upon the past, the present, and the future of group practice in America. By virtue of having spent all of my professional life in group practice, perhaps I may be permitted to voice a few opinions and speculations on the subject. On the other hand, the charge may be made, and not without some validity, that, of necessity, the resulting viewpoint must be biased. If judged guilty by my peers