As government and private payers take comparative effectiveness data into account for reimbursement decisions, the effectiveness of vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty for VCF remain controversial. The Noridian Administrative Services — a Medicare administrative contractor — local coverage decision requires participation from all spine surgeons in a local surveillance registry tracking outcomes.
Dr. Shonnard recommended clinician-led BenchMarket Medical, a new VCF registry. Washington State also has the Spine Surgical Care and Outcomes Assessment Program, created in 2012, that includes participation from 80 percent of hospitals delivering spine care.
He urges spine surgeons to participate in these initiatives.
More Articles on Spine Surgeons:
22 Spine Surgeons & Neurosurgeons for NFL Teams in 2013
How to Move the Spine Field Forward: Q&A With Dr. Lawrence Lenke
10 Things for Spine Surgeons to Know About Medicare’s Physician Compare Website
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.
