A. Nick Shamie, MD, weighs in on a number of spine practice aspects today, including balancing one's academic practice and clinical practice.
Dr. Shamie is the chief orthopedic spine surgery and professor of orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery at University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine.
Question: How do you manage your research work/academic practice and your clinical practice?
ANS: I believe the most challenging aspect of any professional's life is time management. I have clear blocks of time allocated to each part of my practice and responsibilities — as a physician, that is, set office hours, operating room days and research meetings. Based on the need, I allocate additional time to areas that need extra attention during a particular time, for example, a patient needing extra care, meeting a deadline for grant applications, etc.
Let's also not forget family commitments, which at times have to take priority. Having assistance from talented colleagues and staff helps immensely, so I delegate some of the tasks that would take time away from my other responsibilities.
Question: What new techniques and technologies are changing the way spine care is delivered?
ANS: I believe advancement in imaging technologies and navigational tools are and will continue assisting us in improving care for our patients.
Question: How will the use of biologics grow in the coming years?
ANS: Although we have seen a setback in the use of biologics in spine surgery and orthopedics to treat our patients, I believe the use of biologics will continue to grow in our quest for the treatment and prevention — and perhaps reversal — of disease conditions in orthopedics and spine.
Learn more from Dr. Shamie at the 15th Annual Spine, Orthopedic & Pain Management-Driven ASC Conference + The Future of Spine in June 2017! Click here for more information.