AAOS NOLC Recap

By Jacob Riis, MD
VCU Orthopaedics
PGY-5

AAOS logo Having the opportunity to be involved in the National Orthopaedic Leadership Conference was a unique and fulfilling experience at a critical time in my career. As a resident, I am often shielded from the realities of billing, reimbursement, changes in healthcare policy and the small steps taken by states and federal authorities that will someday have a substantial impact on my practice. Taking the time to learn about the national legislative process, becoming involved with clarifying essential issues and then bringing those issues to members of government who are charged with guiding and forming national policy offered an insight into the complexities of being a modern orthopaedic surgeon.

I believe the opportunity I had to go to Washington, DC changed my perspective in three ways. First, the educational portion of the conference introduced me to the milieu that, from the outside, looks chaotic and pointless. A firsthand look, however, offers the chance to see the various tiers of decision making and how those interactions lead to legislative changes. Second, the actual process of lobbying and working to explain succinctly and appropriately the desired outcomes of legislation reinforced the importance of clear communication in all areas of my practice. Finally, the opportunity to meet and discuss issues with surgeons at different points in their careers with various interests and specialities afforded me the chance to reflect on choices and changes I could make to become a better surgeon, communicator and citizen.

The time spent at the NOLC was well spent and will likely have tangible benefits in the future of my practice. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to serve and represent VCU Health and VCU Department of Orthopaedics at the 2016 NOLC.