How foot & ankle surgeons are shaping healthcare's future — 4 insights from ACFAS President Chris Reeves

Orthopedic

Orthopedic specialists are at the forefront of major changes in healthcare, according to American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons President Chris Reeves, DPM.

Dr. Reeves told Becker's ASC Review four ways foot and ankle surgeons are transforming the industry:

1. Leading cutting-edge research. "To provide physicians with a recommended approach to the treatment of specific foot and ankle conditions and pathologies, the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons developed an industry-leading library of Clinical Consensus Statements. Each CCS convened an expert panel of foot and ankle surgeons and industry partners to explore the proper diagnosis and treatment of conditions ranging from infracalcaneal heel pain and venous thromboembolism to adult and pediatric flatfoot and ankle arthritis. Foot and ankle surgeons will continue to use their experience, expertise and industry collaborations to provide readily available resources to physician partners and ensure patients receive proper care, no matter how complex or common the condition."

2. Transforming care standards in outpatient settings. "Today's healthcare landscape is shifting from the traditional inpatient model to outpatient settings. Because of this shift, ACFAS partnered with healthcare specialty organizations on a three-year initiative, known as the Adaptation and Dissemination for Outpatient Infection Prevention Guidance, to help providers implement standards on infection prevention for outpatient settings. These updated standards ensure patients are provided care in environments that minimize or eliminate the risk of healthcare-associated infections."

3. Shaping the evolution of foot and ankle surgery. "Foot and ankle surgeons are constantly evolving and looking for innovative ways to provide expert care to their patients and the healthcare system. They are at the forefront of new, advanced procedures like implant arthroplasty to treat conditions such as big toe arthritis and ankle arthritis, allowing active individuals to retain as much motion as possible."

4. Influencing the next generation. "Foot and ankle surgeons are being incorporated into large orthopedic groups, multispecialty groups and teaching institutions to facilitate cutting-edge research to help patients achieve the best outcomes possible. Being actively involved in the industry provides the next generation of foot and ankle surgeons with the proper resources to be successful."

More articles on orthopedics:
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Medicare ACOs and spine surgery: 5 things to know
Dr. Joseph Schwab: Key concepts on AI and machine learning in spine

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