He is also a U.S. Olympic Committee team physician and fellow of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Here, Dr. Siegel discusses the biggest challenges in orthopedics today and the best opportunities headed into 2019.
Question: What are the top challenges orthopedic surgeons face heading into 2019?
Dr. Joshua Siegel: Hospitals continue to consolidate and hire specialists, including orthopedic surgeons. This may significantly stifle choice in the marketplace by dominance of one or two healthcare systems. As choice is decreased, costs will increase and will be passed on to the consumer. Nothing is being done to help the independent orthopedic groups survive and thrive. Hospital systems spend heavily on recruitment and marketing, even [taking a] loss [on] leading services to drive out competition.
Q: What technology are you most excited about in the future?
JS: We are seeing more biologic treatments emerge continually. These will be the future of orthopedics.
Q: What is your best opportunity for growth?
JS: Being able to treat people remotely through telemedicine is very interesting but may be years away because of the regulations and payment models. I believe most growth will come from the aging population and the increased number of lives insured over the short term. Longer term I believe growth will be in the offerings we have through technology expansion and biologics.
To participate in future Becker’s Q&As, contact Laura Dyrda at ldyrda@beckershealthcare.com.
For a deeper dive into the future of orthopedics, 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.
More articles on orthopedic surgery:
Dr. Jason Weisstein: 3 Qs on the big challenges and best opportunities for orthopedic surgeons next year
Dr. Alpesh Patel: The biggest challenge in spine today + new innovations in spinal biologics
Tips for marketing an orthopedic practice in 2019
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.