Spine surgeons reconcile clinical decisions with reimbursement trends
By Admin | February 25, 2026
As reimbursements decline, spine surgeons are faced with weighing the needs of their patients and the sustainability of their practice.
While patient needs remain at the forefront, the environment around clinical choices have been affected by shifts in Medicare and payer reimbursement.
Three surgeons discuss their approaches.
Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. Becker’s invites all spine surgeon and specialist responses.
Next question: What policy change would most improve access to appropriate spine care in your market?
Please send responses to Carly Behm at cbehm@beckershealthcare.com by 5 p.m. CDT Tuesday, March 3.
Editor’s note: Responses were lightly edited for clarity.
Question: How are reimbursement trends influencing which spine procedures you’re willing (or unwilling) to offer?
Brian McHugh, MD. McHugh Neurosurgery (West Islip, N.Y.): My clinical decisions are driven by what is appropriate for the specific patient at a specific time. However, unfortunately...(More)
For more info please read, Spine surgeons reconcile clinical decisions with reimbursement trends, by Becker's Spine Review
