Newly elected American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons President David A. Halsey, MD, gave his first address at the AAOS Annual Meeting March 6 to March 8 in New Orleans.
Dr. Halsey discussed the current climate in orthopedic surgery and the rapid expansion of technology. He also hinted at new strategies the organization plans to lay out and challenges he is preparing to overcome.
Here are five takeaways from Dr. Halsey's address.
1. When sharing his thoughts on upcoming challenges, Dr. Halsey said, "I believe the orthopaedic professional society of today, and tomorrow, must respond to member demands more effectively and more efficiently in order to deliver the optimal member value. Our board of directors and council and committee leaders must bring an appropriate mix of diverse orthopedic practice experiences and competencies to make the best decisions for our members given the resources we have."
2. Dr. Halsey went on to discuss the different agreements AAOS entered into over the years. "Unfortunately, some of these collaborations have been less successful, leading to a breakdown in credibility," he said. Dr. Halsey went on to state the society will seek to establish a revamped culture grounded on engagement.
3. There was also elaboration on how members can interact with one another. "When you enroll your practice and patients in a centralized family of integrated registries, your data will serve as many masters," Dr. Halsey said. He went on to discuss the continued advancements of the societies central database.
4. He moved the conversation toward advocacy through research and quality. He stressed patient-centered principles and using the best available evidence when making clinical decisions.
5. He wrapped up his address with three thoughts:
• "Remember to listen to your patients, really listen… for they are your most valuable education resource."
• "Take a risk and let your voice be heard through service in various assemblies and boards, wherever you are in your career."
• "Lean in and become engaged in your state orthopaedic society, for truly all politics is local."