Becker's ASC Review

26 ORTHOPEDICS What tomorrow's orthopedic surgeons will value most By Cameron Cortigiano R etaining autonomy, gaining mentorship and personal development and continued technological innovation are three goals that future orthopedic surgeons look to achieve in their profession. Six orthopedic surgeons connected with Becker's to share their thoughts on the career goals they believed the next generation of orthopedic specialists will prioritize for their own careers. Editor's note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length. Question: What do you believe the next generation of orthopedic surgeons will value most in their careers? James Chen, MD. Orthopedic Surgeon at DISC Surgery Center (Newport Beach, Calif.): I believe the next generation of orthopedic surgeons will continue to value what has always been at the heart of our profession: the ability to restore mobility, function and quality of life for patients. While technology, innovation and practice models will inevitably evolve, the fundamental motivation remains unchanged. e greatest reward in our field is the intangible satisfaction of helping others regain independence and live without pain. at sense of purpose has drawn us into medicine, and it will continue to inspire future generations of surgeons. Ronald Gardner, MD. Founder of Gardner Orthopedics (Fort Myers, Fla.): Future orthopedists will sharply divide along two paths: ose who are content with being corporately employed and those few who are fiercely independent. Most of these decisions will be made by economic pressures, though work-life balance considerations are becoming more pertinent. Andrew Hsu, MD. Orthopedic Surgeon at UCI Health (Irvine, Calif.): I believe the next generation of surgeons will most value the ability to have a multi-faceted career that integrates autonomy, focused patient care, continuing education, technological innovation and outside personal interests to create a work environment that aligns with their personal values and lifestyles. More than total compensation, practice-type, case volume or vacation time, I think future surgeons will prioritize having meaningful experiences such as mentorship and personal development that draw from their individual knowledge base and skill sets. I think orthopedics as a career will continue to diversify and be refined to reflect the cultural and social values of the next generation of surgeons. David Kugelman, MD. Joint Replacement Surgeon at Rothman Orthopaedics (Philadelphia): ey will prioritize continued innovation, particularly in technology and implant design, as well as long-term outcomes and work-life balance through increased efficiency. Madhish Patel, DO. Orthopedic Surgeon at Gardner Orthopedics (Fort Myers, Fla.): e next generation of orthopedic surgeons will value their online presence. Richard Yoon, MD. Orthopedic Surgeon at RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group (Jersey City, N.J.): e next generation of orthopedic surgeons will value the opportunity and access to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology to treat their patients and manage their practices. is can include advances in robotics, enabling technologies and artificial intelligence. ey will desire these technologies to help support them not only in the operating room, but also to make their day-to-day work in the office more efficient and supportive. With a focus on work-life balance and wellness as well, the next generation will desire the very best, not only to provide the best value-based, quality care for their patients, but also to help maintain a healthy home life as well. n Physician-led orthopedic MSO launches By Cameron Cortigiano Evolve Orthopedic Partners, a physician-led management services organization, has formed. The company completed its first foundational partnership with OrthoNY, which has orthopedic clinics and ambulatory surgery centers throughout New York, according to an Aug. 12 news release from Evolve. OrthoNY will retain its brand name, but will now operate under the Evolve platform. The MSO will handle nonclinical operations, including billing, HR, compliance, marketing and IT, for high- performing orthopedic practices and ASCs while preserving clinical autonomy. Evolve also appointed Jerry Tillinger as CEO. Mr. Tillinger most recently served as CEO of U.S. Digestive Health, a gastroenterology practice. The company is headquartered in New York's Capital Region and is actively exploring growth opportunities within and outside of its existing markets. The MSO is backed by Zenyth Partners, a healthcare investment firm, the release said. n

• Cover