Tom Stanley, MD, is an orthopedic spine surgeon at OrthoIllinois in Algonquin, Ill.
He has a Master of Public Health degree and focuses his practice on minimally invasive spine surgery. He has been in private practice since 2010 and joined OrthoIllinois earlier this year. Here, Dr. Stanley discusses the big challenges and opportunities for orthopedic spine surgeons next year.
Question: What are the top challenges you're facing heading into 2019?
Dr. Tom Stanley: 1. Further market consolidation leading to closed networks limiting access to providers.
2. Continued rampant denial of care based on outdated treatment protocols that no longer follow the current standard of care.
Q: What technology are you most excited about in the future?
TS: Stem cells for spinal fusion. The outcomes are more consistent without the complications associated with other biologics.
Q: What is your best opportunity for growth?
TS: Outcomes-based payment structures.
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For a deeper dive into the future of spine, 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.