Alan Beyer, MD, executive medical director of Hoag Orthopedic Institute in Irvine, Calif., connected with Becker's to discuss his advice for up-and-coming orthopedic surgeons.
Note: This response has been lightly edited for length and clarity.
Dr. Alan Beyer:
1. Embrace the clinical and operational evolution of our field. From an orthopedic surgeon who has been in practice for 40 years, I can say that orthopedics, much more than any other specialty, has evolved demonstrably. Outpatient joint replacement? Tremendous implant capability? And now robotics and AI? Today's orthopedic surgeon needs to continuously learn. Staying at the forefront of advancements in orthopedic surgery will help you provide the best care for your patients.
2. However, take a measured approach to emerging technology. Learn the basics of clinical care, and then see if robotics is right for you and your patients. Patient outcomes of emerging technology will help tell us what works well for the long term. Not all that glitters is gold. A lot of new technology takes time to reveal its benefits for you and your patients.
3. Learn about value-based care. Cost is an issue for everyone in healthcare and orthopedics is no different. Technology is expensive, yet does it save on costs to the patient? Talk to your colleagues or hospital partners about value-based care and learn the best practices to increase quality of care while reducing costs.
4. Track your outcomes. Outcome data is the currency of our accountable performance measures, and the future will demand more patient and physician data analysis. How am I doing compared to my peers? Among the top providers of orthopedic care? Your performance and skills have been honed through vigorous training. Embrace your outcomes data and learn from it.
5. Lean into teamwork and collaboration. Much of our profession in orthopedics demands a multidisciplinary approach. Foster teamwork by engaging with others, including nurses, physical therapists and radiologists. Be open to ideals and processes that benefit the practice and the care of patients.
6. Take time for yourself. A long career in orthopedic surgery demands a marathoner perspective, not a sprinter. Prioritize self-care and manage stress. Your physical and mental wellbeing are important to allow you to be your best for your patients.