Orthopedics

Fighting through the AI hype to find systems that actually provide tangible benefits is a point of emphasis for AI initiatives at this musculoskeletal technology firm.  MedVanta, the largest physician-owned, fully integrated musculoskeletal platform in the U.S., which was founded…

Orthopedic organizations are integrating AI into prior authorization workflows, opening surgery centers and implementing clear clinical pathways to boost profitability and outcomes.  These initiatives have led to fewer delays and denials, diversified revenue streams and greater control over implant and…

Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries are so common that they have become almost invisible in discussions about healthcare spending. Yet for self-insured employers and other plan sponsors, MSK conditions consistently rank among the top cost drivers, often representing 20–30% of total health…

Orthopedics and spine are among the hottest specialties for ASCs and outpatient settings this year, driven by CMS’ removal of nearly 300 musculoskeletal procedures from its IPO list.  This shift is leading to better outcomes and recovery for many patients…

The Activ-L lumbar artificial disc is back on the U.S. market under Highridge Medical, and its first cases under the company were completed in February, Scott Blumenthal, MD, told Becker’s. Highridge announced plans in 2025 to introduce Activ-L after Aesculap, the…

Declining reimbursements are one of, if not the biggest pressure point facing orthopedics today, which could result in a decline in access to specialists if the situation does not change.  There is currently a huge gap between the high patient…

Independent spine surgeons face some unique financial challenges that their employed peers might not encounter. On top of clinical work, independent spine physicians grapple with the costs of running a business and keeping up with margins. Spine physicians from different…

Prior authorization delays and standardized codes that do not measure case variability are just two orthopedic policy disconnects surgeons say they face on a day-to-day basis.  While insurance companies intend for prior authorization to act as a guardrail, some leaders…

With patient expectations higher than ever, orthopedic practices are looking to the integration of robotics within joint replacement surgeries and offering an after-hours schedule as top priorities in meeting demand.  This joint replacement surgeon and orthopedic MSO executive recently connected…

The reimbursement structure and Medicare fee schedule in orthopedics and healthcare has slipped in recent years, leading to concerns from orthopedic surgeons and practices.  CMS issued its final policy changes for the 2026 Physician Fee Schedule in October, which includes…