Frank Schwab, MD, chief of spine services at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, shares insights on the evolution of technology in orthopedics as well the future of bundled-payments.
Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: How has technology evolved in orthopedics?
Dr. Frank Schwab: Technology has dramatically helped in the care of patients through several aspects. Data-driven algorithms help us in the diagnosis, optimal treatment and decision-making tools regarding risk and benefit.
Other important areas where technology has evolved in orthopedics relates to navigation and robotics where greater precision and safety may lead a new era in musculoskeletal care.
Q: Will bundled-payments become the standard? Does this help or hinder orthopedic surgery?
FS: It seems that bundled-payments will continue to expand but unlikely that this will fully replace current payment models given a stratified consumer market.
Bundled-payments may help some aspects of orthopedic surgery where substantial standardization has occurred and where physician employment models incentivize a drive to best outcomes and efficiency.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring orthopedic surgeons?
FS: Orthopedic surgery is becoming an even more exciting field due to new technologies being introduced and the growing demand for solutions to musculoskeletal problems. It is critical that aspiring orthopedic surgeons remain innovative and engage heavily in research and technology with a passion for helping patients.
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