Spine

Prior authorization remains a key focus for the North American Spine Society's advocacy efforts this year. The organization also has its eyes on enhancing a bill to protect patients from surprise medical billing.

Harvinder Sandhu, MD, co-chief of New York City-based Hospital for Special Surgery Spine, has been selected to direct the augmented reality spine surgery program at Stamford (Conn.) Health's Bennett Medical Center.

The widespread adoption of endoscopic spine surgery in the U.S. has been stunted by a lack of training and inadequate reimbursement. 

Last year was an evolutionary one for healthcare, with the widespread adoption of telehealth providing patients with access to providers at their fingertips.

Thousand Oaks, Calif.-based Los Robles Health System is now offering endoscopic spine surgery thanks to Armen Oganesian, DO, Thousand Oaks Acorn reported April 15.

Jessica Jameson, MD, interventional pain physician and founding partner of Axis Spine Center in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, has been nominated for a seat on the Panhandle District Board of Health, KREM reports.

Prior authorization is a contentious issue in spine care at the moment. Beginning July 1, CMS will require the policy for cervical fusion with disc removal and implanted spinal neurostimulators, which physicians say will further limit access to care.

A study published in a recent issue of the International Journal of Spine Surgery found the work relative value units assigned to open decompression and interlaminar stabilization are undervalued.

Gray Wesley Barrow, MD, was sentenced April 15 to prison for his role in a healthcare kickbacks scheme, according to the U.S. Justice Department.

From prior authorization requirements to value-based care initiatives and payer battles, nine spine leaders discuss the biggest challenges affecting their practice today.