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.
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