Six numbers reflecting challenges ahead for spine surgeons:
1. CMS’ inpatient-only list: CMS’ 2022 proposal would put 71 spine procedures on the inpatient-only list. ASC administrators have described the proposal as “an obvious step backwards,” and if implemented, the move would challenge outpatient migration for spine surgery.
2. The COVID-19 delta variant: The delta variant of COVID-19 is growing in the U.S. putting a strain on hospitals and health elective procedures at many centers. COVID-19 cases are rising in 42 states, USA Today reported Aug. 24.
3. Prior authorizations: A survey from the American Medical Association found 85 percent of all physicians described burdens associated with prior authorizations as high or extremely high. A July 1 rule from CMS requiring prior authorization for cervical fusions went forward despite opposition from surgeons and physician societies.
4. Undervalued spine care: The work relative value units assigned to open decompression and interlaminar stabilization are undervalued, according to a study from the International Journal of Spine Surgery. Open decompression and interlaminar stabilization had a 13.5 work relative value units while the most comparable procedure, laminectomy, has a 15.37 wRVU.
5. Orthopedic surgeon shortage: By 2025, orthopedic surgeons are expected to be in high demand. By 2025, there will be an estimated 24,350 orthopedic surgeons in the U.S., but a projected demand of 29,000, according to Merritt Hawkins’ 2021 Review of Physician and Advanced Practitioner Recruiting Incentives.
6. Recovering pre-pandemic salary: Less than half of physicians expect to reach pre-pandemic income levels in the next year, according to Medscape’s “Physician Compensation Report 2021.” Forty-two percent of physicians believe they will return to pre-pandemic income within the next year, and 41 percent expect to hit that figure in the next two to three years.
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
