Episodes

Feb. 28, 2025

Dr. Philip Louie, Spine Surgeon and Medical Director of Research and Academics at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health

Dr. Philip Louie, Spine Surgeon and Medical Director of Research and Academics at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, shares why he is pursuing an MBA and the value of continuous learning in medicine. He discusses his approach to patient education and professional engagement through social media, how he is adapting his strategy to shifting algorithms and a potential TikTok ban, and his thoughts on the future generation of spine surgeons.
Feb. 21, 2025

Dr. Craig McMains, Board-Certified Spine Surgeon at OrthoIndy

In this episode, Dr. Craig McMains, Board-Certified Spine Surgeon at OrthoIndy, discusses advancements in spine biologics, the role of AI in surgical planning and patient care, and the future of innovation in orthopedic surgery.
Feb. 17, 2025

Dr. Chester Donnally III, Spine Surgeon at Texas Spine Consultants, LLP

Dr. Chester Donnally III, Spine Surgeon at Texas Spine Consultants, LLP, shares how he is leveraging social media to provide reliable medical content to a broader audience. He discusses the different platforms he uses, how his reach varies across them, and the key healthcare trends he is following to stay ahead in the field.
Feb. 15, 2025

Dr. Jonathan Foret, Orthopedic Surgeon at Center for Orthopedics

In this episode, Dr. Jonathan Foret, Orthopedic Surgeon at Center for Orthopedics, discusses key trends in orthopedic surgery, including the shift to outpatient joint replacements, rapid recovery protocols, the role of artificial intelligence, and advancements in orthobiologics for cartilage repair. He also shares insights into the future of orthopedic robots and the growing focus on joint preservation research.
Feb. 14, 2025

Helen Lowenwirth, Administrator at East Side Endoscopy

In this episode recorded live at Becker's Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, Helen Lowenwirth, Administrator at East Side Endoscopy, discusses the pressing challenges of staffing shortages, the importance of investing in staff development, and effective financial strategies for improving patient-provider relationships and ensuring the financial health of ambulatory surgery centers. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informationa...
Feb. 12, 2025

Dr. Wes Battiste, President of Destin Surgery Center & Destin Anesthesia

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Wes Battiste, President of Destin Surgery Center & Destin Anesthesia. Dr. Battiste shares insights on the critical role of staffing in maintaining a high-quality patient experience, strategies for retention, and the impact of financial transparency in ASCs. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and offered for informational use only. You are urged to consul...
Feb. 11, 2025

Mary E. Cassai, MPA, RN, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Hospital for Special Surgery

In this episode, Mary E. Cassai, MPA, RN, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Hospital for Special Surgery, shares insights on HSS’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and accessibility in musculoskeletal care. She discusses recent achievements, future growth strategies, and how she is evolving as a leader in an ever-changing healthcare landscape.
Feb. 10, 2025

Dr. Choll Kim, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeon at Excel Spine Center

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Choll Kim, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeon at Excel Spine Center. Dr. Kim shares insights into the rapid growth of spine procedures in ASCs, the importance of specialized surgical centers, and how minimally invasive techniques, patient education, and emerging technologies like robotics are shaping the future of spine care. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without n...
Feb. 9, 2025

Dr. Michael Ast, Chief Medical Innovation Officer at Hospital for Special Surgery

In this episode, Dr. Michael Ast, Chief Medical Innovation Officer at Hospital for Special Surgery, discusses key trends in orthopedics, the growing role of AI and robotics in surgery, and HSS’s expansion efforts. He shares insights on AI-driven tools improving efficiency, the future of personalized surgery, and HSS’s commitment to expanding high-quality musculoskeletal care nationwide.
Feb. 8, 2025

Dr. Scott Blumenthal of the Texas Back Institute

In this episode, Dr. Scott Blumenthal of the Texas Back Institute discusses the evolution of total disc replacement, the ongoing challenges with insurance coverage, and the role of AI in healthcare decisions. With 25 years of groundbreaking research, Dr. Blumenthal shares insights on the future of spine surgery and patient advocacy.
Feb. 7, 2025

Dr. Michael Stuntz, Chief Medical Officer at Monterey Peninsula Surgery Center

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Dr. Michael Stuntz, Chief Medical Officer at Monterey Peninsula Surgery Center. Here, he discusses the increasing demand for outpatient surgery, strategies to improve patient experience, and the importance of financial transparency. He emphasizes the shift towards more efficient practices and local anesthesia, while maintaining a focus on patient satisfaction and cost-effective care. ...
Feb. 3, 2025

Jeffrey Flynn, Administrator and COO of Gramercy Surgery Center

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Jeffrey Flynn, Administrator and COO of Gramercy Surgery Center. Here, he shares insights on the growing challenges in ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), particularly with increasing volume and value-based care. He discusses strategies for maintaining positive patient experiences and staying ahead in a shifting healthcare landscape. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change withou...
Jan. 31, 2025

Dr. Jerald Garcia, CEO of Hawaii Institute for Pain and The Surgical Suites of Honolulu

This episode, recorded live at Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Jerald Garcia, CEO of Hawaii Institute for Pain and The Surgical Suites of Honolulu. Dr. Garcia shares strategies for overcoming staffing shortages, improving patient satisfaction, and fostering a mission-driven culture to enhance the ASC experience.
Jan. 29, 2025

Jacob Rodman, CEO of Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic

This episode, recorded live at Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Jacob Rodman, CEO of Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic. Jacob shares strategies for addressing ASC growth challenges, including staffing and anesthesia shortages, improving patient understanding of billing processes, and fostering a collaborative workplace culture.
Jan. 29, 2025

Transforming Ambulatory Surgery: Insights from Kristopher Kitz, CEO of Wyatt Surgery Center

In this episode, Kristopher Kitz, CEO of Wyatt Surgery Center, discusses the evolution of ambulatory surgery centers, the role of physician leadership, and the growing focus on specialties like spine, pain, and neurosurgery. He also shares insights on leveraging AI, enhancing consumer experiences, and navigating the challenges and opportunities of a startup ASC.
Jan. 24, 2025

Elaina Turner, ASC Administrator at Commonwealth Pain and Spine

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Elaina Turner, ASC Administrator at Commonwealth Pain and Spine. Here, she discusses the importance of prioritizing staffing and fostering a positive environment for both patients and employees. Turner also emphasizes the value of guiding patients through every step of their procedure, including transparent communication about costs, to build trust and satisfaction. Disclaimer: This...
Jan. 22, 2025

Dr. Basil Besh, Founder of Precision SurgiCenter

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Basil Besh, Founder of Precision SurgiCenter. Here, he discusses the transition of patients from inpatient to outpatient care and the role it plays in improving efficiency and outcomes. Dr. Besh also highlights the importance of maintaining open communication with patients to effectively manage their expectations and provide a seamless care experience. Disclaimer: This content is...
Jan. 22, 2025

Innovation in Orthopedic Surgery: Leaders Discuss the Future of ASCs

Dr. Marvin K. Smith and Dr. Daniel B. Chan, leading orthopedic surgeons, join Becker's Healthcare to discuss their journeys in Sports Medicine and the evolution of Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs). They delve into the impact of higher acuity procedures on ASCs, strategic collaborations, and exciting developments in the field. This episode is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson MedTech. To advance your ASC Learning Journey with Johnson & Johnson MedTech’s ASC Preceptorship Program, please email ASCS...
Jan. 21, 2025

Michael Gale, Administrative Director, Sentara Obici Ambulatory Surgical Center

Recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, this episode features Michael Gale, Administrative Director, Sentara Obici Ambulatory Surgical Center. Gale discusses strategies for managing ASC growth, enhancing patient education, addressing financial challenges, and improving clinical outcomes in the evolving healthcare landscape.
Jan. 20, 2025

Dr. Ken Rich, President of Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Ken Rich, President of Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic. Here, he discusses strategies for enhancing the patient experience, the advantages of operating a smaller clinic that fosters a strong work environment for surgeons and staff, and how prioritizing staff translates to better patient care. Dr. Rich also emphasizes the importance of cost transparency in improving trust and satisfac...
Jan. 17, 2025

Dr. Rick Ngo, General Surgeon at Texas Hernia & Surgical Specialists

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Dr. Rick Ngo, General Surgeon at Texas Hernia & Surgical Specialists. Here, he shares his approach to prioritizing the patient experience, from initial consultation through post-surgery care. Dr. Ngo also discusses the importance of providing individualized attention to each patient, even when managing a high volume of cases. Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without not...
Jan. 15, 2025

Nyleen Flores, Chief Administrative Officer at Lake Oconee Orthopedics

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Nyleen Flores, Chief Administrative Officer at Lake Oconee Orthopedics. Here, she discusses strategies for ensuring patient safety in the outpatient setting, the importance of finding and retaining satisfied employees, and fostering a culture that values all roles equally. Flores highlights how this approach strengthens patient-provider relationships over time. Disclaimer: This cont...
Jan. 13, 2025

Tina Piotrowski, CEO of Copper Ridge Surgery Center

This episode, recorded live at the Becker’s Healthcare 30th Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs, features Tina Piotrowski, CEO of Copper Ridge Surgery Center. Here, she delves into the organizational challenges that arise when updating service lines and procedures, and how navigating these conflicts effectively can benefit operations. Piotrowski also emphasizes the role of clear communication in enhancing patient satisfaction and fostering a smoother healthcare experience.
Jan. 11, 2025

Dr. Ravi K. Bashyal, Director of Outpatient Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery at Endeavor Health

In this episode, Dr. Ravi K. Bashyal, Director of Outpatient Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery at Endeavor Health, discusses groundbreaking research on infection prevention in joint replacements. Learn how his innovative use of advanced irrigation techniques has led to a remarkable 0% infection rate over three years, revolutionizing patient outcomes and healthcare costs.