Becker’s Healthcare Podcast M Craig McMains, MD, Spine Surgeon at OrthoIndy
Jul 19, 2025
Dr. Craig McMains, a spine surgeon at OrthoIndy, delves into the transformative power of minimally invasive spine techniques, emphasizing enhanced patient recovery and lower costs. He discusses the evolution of physician reimbursement amidst the rise of ambulatory surgical centers and the impact of AI in healthcare. Dr. McMains highlights the shift towards patient-centered care and direct employer contracting, showcasing how these strategies are shaping the future of orthopedic practices and improving outcomes.
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Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Shift
- Dr. McMains shares how his practice shifted with minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery.
- This technique avoids fusions, preserving anatomy and accelerating patient recovery.
Healthcare Pendulum Swings Back
- The healthcare field sees a pendulum swinging between physician independence and hospital employment.
- Physicians are regaining control as large healthcare systems struggle with specialized care management.
Leverage Ambulatory Surgery Centers
- Spine surgery is moving toward outpatient settings like ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs).
- Physicians should gain control over ASCs to reduce costs and improve patient care.