The result was much better than the outcome interpolated in Figure 1.

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Third parties, typically the insurance companies, were interpolated between the physician and the patient.

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To arrive at their 2004 revenue estimate, the companies' well-paid advisers seem to have examined historical growth rates at both companies, interpolated them into the future and whacked 4.5% off the total to reflect the inevitable loss of business that occurs as two companies trim sales forces and eliminate product lines.

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