The economics and complexity of health care will continue to require better and faster methods of information access. As a multipurpose resource, physician networks can offer a host of benefits to institutions, caregivers, and patients. Early entrants into this technological arena can expect some degree of competitive advantage by attracting physicians who want sophisticated support systems and by expediting referrals for specialized care. Whether or not this proves to be of long-term merit, the need for administrative and patient care information systems will likely increase in the future. In this respect, innovation is purely a point in time.