With 2023 halfway through, two spine surgeons told Becker's about some of the accomplishments they are proud of so far this year and what they are looking forward to in the second half.
Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. Becker's invites all spine surgeon and specialist responses.
Next week's question: What's a nonsurgical skill you're learning, work related or otherwise?
Please send responses to Claire Wallace at cwallace@beckershealthcare.com by 5 p.m. CDT Wednesday, July 5.
Editor's note: Responses were lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: We're about halfway through 2023. What's an accomplishment so far and a goal for the remainder of the year?
Brian Fiani, DO. Mendelson Kornblum Orthopedic & Spine Specialists (West Bloomfield, Mich.): Best in Michigan Magazine has named me as a top neurological surgeon in Michigan. My goal for the remainder of the year is to continue to have a thriving practice in Michigan and help patients live a high quality of life. Having been nominated for several other awards by magazines and medical organizations in Michigan, I am excited to see what is in store for the remainder of the year.
Brian Gantwerker, MD. The Craniospinal Center of Los Angeles: We have made a lot of streamlining changes, both in staffing and patient throughput. We are offering longer and sooner appointments for our patients. My staff has trained up and become very familiar with our billing software and is becoming adept at reanalyzing claims and finding money left on the table. We will continue to evolve while cutting costs and improving patient experience. Patients call my office, they get a person, not a phone tree — that is something the patients really value.