This episode explores the essentials of effective doctor-patient communication in today’s rapidly changing healthcare landscape, particularly in an era influenced by “Dr. Google” and increased patient access to information. Dr. Katie Schabel, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Oregon Health and Science University, draws from her experience as both a clinician and educator to discuss practical strategies for building trust, demonstrating empathy, and fostering shared decision-making with patients. Topics include the “four E's” of communication - engage, empathize, educate, and enlist - as well as tips for tackling complex conversations around surgical risks, optimization, and misinformation found online.
Host: Robert Orfali, MD, Editor in Chief, AAOS NowGuest: Katie Schabel, MD, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University
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27:14
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27:14
What’s Up, MOC? Key Changes to the ABOS Maintenance of Certification Program
This episode focuses on the evolving process of Maintenance of Certification (MOC) for orthopedic surgeons, highlighting its transition to a more flexible and continuous learning experience. Dr. Gregory McComis, ABOS Director and chair of the ABOS Maintenance of Certification Committee, joins interviewer Dr. Doug Lundy to break down key elements of the MOC program—including professional standing, lifelong learning, performance in practice, and cognitive expertise. Dr. McComis also outlines recent updates, such as the introduction of the Web-Based Longitudinal Assessment (WLA), the move toward a “continuing certification process,” and changes to certification cycles.
Together, they discuss how these advancements are designed to help surgeons maintain high standards of care while addressing common challenges and misperceptions.
Host: Dr. Doug Lundy, AAOS Now Editorial Board/Former ABOS DirectorGuest: Dr. Gregory McComis, ABOS Director and Chair of the ABOS Maintenance of Certification Committee
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27:10
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27:10
Local Voices, National Impact: How the BOC Works for You
This episode offers an in-depth look at the vital role of the AAOS Board of Counselors (BOC) in orthopaedic advocacy and practice. New BOC Chair Dr. Michael Leddy III joins interviewer Dr. Stuart Fischer to share his personal journey in orthopaedics, including how involvement in state societies helped prepare him for national leadership.
Together, they discuss pressing issues facing the profession such as scope of practice challenges, prior authorization hurdles, and ongoing Medicare reimbursement concerns. Dr. Leddy outlines the Board’s collaborative grant programs that support state societies and highlights recent advocacy successes—like increased funding and strategic sharing of resources between states. The episode also explores efforts to strengthen communication and partnerships across the orthopaedic community, promote engagement at the National Orthopaedic Leadership Conference, and encourage early career involvement in advocacy.
Dr. Leddy invites listeners to the upcoming AAOS Annual Meeting in New Orleans and emphasizes the importance of bi-directional communication and grassroots participation within the Academy.
Host: Dr. Stuart Fischer, AAOS Now Editorial BoardGuest: Dr. Michael Leddy III, Chair, AAOS Board of Counselors
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23:07
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23:07
#55 A Legacy of Advocacy: How OrthoPAC Is Shaping Healthcare Policy
This episode highlights the influential role of the Orthopaedic Political Action Committee (OrthoPAC) in amplifying the voices of orthopaedic surgeons on Capitol Hill and advancing patient care.
Dr. Wayne Johnson, Chair of OrthoPAC, shares insights on the committee’s mission, its major legislative victories—including payment reform and surprise billing—and its ongoing efforts to address key challenges like Medicare reimbursement cuts, prior authorization burdens, and advocacy for physician-owned hospitals.
The discussion also explores the importance of bipartisan collaboration, mentorship, and how orthopaedic surgeons at all career stages can get involved in advocacy efforts.
Host: Dr. Richard Schaefer, Editorial Board Member, AAOS NowGuest: Dr. Wayne Johnson, Chair, AAOS Orthopaedic Political Action Committee
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27:46
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27:46
#54 The Real-World Cost of Payment Reform for Orthopaedic Surgeons
This episode explores the ongoing challenges and potential solutions surrounding Medicare physician payment reform and the sustainability of orthopedic practices. Dr. Robert Orfaly, editor in chief of AAOS Now, is joined by Dr. Adam Bruggeman, Chair of the AAOS Advocacy Council, to discuss the history of payment models from the sustainable growth rate (SGR) to MACRA, the impact of budget neutrality, and the consequences of stagnant reimbursement rates.
Dr. Bruggeman shares insights into how these financial pressures are threatening the viability of independent and group practices, driving consolidation, and affecting patient access to care. The conversation highlights current advocacy efforts to secure inflationary updates for physician payments and emphasizes the importance of physician engagement and storytelling in influencing health policy.
Host: Robert Orfaly, MD, Editor in Chief, AAOS NowGuest: Adam Bruggeman, MD, Chair, AAOS Advocacy Council
Welcome to the new AAOS Now podcast — part of The Bone Beat Orthopaedic Podcast Channel. Each episode offers expert insight and advice to help orthopaedic surgeons stay informed, enhance their practices, and provide the best possible care for their patients.
The AAOS Advocacy Podcast has wrapped, but you can still listen to or download past episodes here. The AAOS Now Podcast will also cover orthopaedic advocacy topics in upcoming episodes.
Brought to you by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
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