David Fisher, MD, is a past president of Indianapolis-based OrthoIndy and current director of the Total Joint Center of Excellence at OrthoIndy Hospital.
Throughout his career, Dr. Fisher has been involved in research and innovation, and is president of the Orthopaedic Research Foundation. Here, Dr. Fisher outlines the key challenges and areas for growth in the coming year.
Question: What are the top challenges you're facing heading into 2019?
Dr. David Fisher: The top challenges we see for next year are the following:
1. Prior authorization issues with the various payers.
2. At-risk contracting and global case rates expanding
3. Improving pain management strategies
Q: What technology are you most excited about in the future?
DF: The technology I am most excited about in the future is in the orthobiologics arena where there may be some breakthroughs in new treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.
Platforms that more efficiently allow surgeons to follow and treat their patients are also exciting.
Q: What is your best opportunity for growth?
DF: As I intend to retire at the end of 2019, growth of my practice is not a concern. But the advice I give to my young partners and anyone else interested is to take good care of patients one at a time. High quality care and delivery is rewarded by patient referrals. Do not jump on new technology or ideas until they have withstood the test of time, and don't use them for marketing purposes.
To participate in future Becker's Q&As, contact Laura Dyrda at ldyrda@beckershealthcare.com.
For a deeper dive into the future of orthopedics, attend the Becker's 17th Annual Future of Spine + Spine, Orthopedic & Pain Management-Driven ASC in Chicago, June 13-5, 2019. Click here to learn more and register.