Valerae O. Lewis, MD, FAAOS
Published 9/10/2025
AAOS is committed to prioritizing its members’ needs, knowing that as the field of musculoskeletal health evolves, so do its members’ preferences and priorities. The annual Member Value and Satisfaction Survey (MVAS) is a quick survey with a big impact. Open from Sept. 4 through Oct. 7, the survey will offer valuable data and feedback to help AAOS evolve programs, prioritize resources, and keep pace with emerging trends and research.
AAOS Now sat down with Valerae O. Lewis, MD, FAAOS, chair of the AAOS Membership Council, to learn more about what is new in this year’s survey, how the data will help shape the future of the organization, and why every member’s voice matters.
AAOS Now: What makes the MVAS a long-term strategic priority for AAOS?
Dr. Lewis: The MVAS is a vital tool for reinforcing our commitment to being a member-driven organization. It’s not just a check-in; it is a data-informed approach to understanding how members experience AAOS throughout their careers. It also offers insight into members’ overall perception of their membership, allowing us to assess our performance and the value of existing programs, services, and communications, and identify areas where the organization can improve to retain and re-engage members, especially among groups at risk of disengagement. By identifying emerging trends and shifting needs, we can help ensure that AAOS evolves in step with our members and delivers meaningful value year after year.
How does AAOS use the survey results to inform leadership decisions and shape future programs or priorities?
The survey provides a direct channel for members to share their concerns and ideas. The results of the survey are reviewed by AAOS leadership, including the Membership Council, Board of Directors, and strategic planning committees. The insights guide leadership decisions and resource allocation, prioritizing initiatives, refining existing offerings, and launching new efforts that directly address member feedback. At the core of all of this, AAOS is committed to transparency and accountability to its members, and we hope this openness reinforces trust and shows we are not afraid to confront challenges head-on.
Are there new elements of the survey this year?
The data and feedback we gather help us assess member satisfaction, identify member needs, and pinpoint trends and areas that require attention. This year, the survey has been revised to be concise yet provide more clarity,
generating additional granular data. We will also pay particular attention to our early-career and private-practice cohorts, groups for whom we need to improve engagement.
What is included in the survey?
The questions are geared toward understanding the likelihood of members recommending an AAOS membership to their colleagues and exploring ways to tailor the membership experience to make AAOS more relevant and meet their practice and career needs.
Respondents have the opportunity to rate the Academy’s benefits and offerings based on their level of satisfaction for areas such as continuing professional development/education, peer-reviewed publications (e.g., the Journal of the AAOS®), clinical guidance and support, advocacy initiatives, networking, volunteer opportunities, the AAOS Annual Meeting, and the latest updates in orthopaedics.
How does the survey amplify the voices of underrepresented groups within AAOS?
The survey offers a structured and inclusive platform for all members to share their experiences, concerns, and priorities. Responses are analyzed by member characteristics, such as career stage, practice setting, and gender, enabling us to identify differences in satisfaction, access, and engagement.
It may highlight concerns specific to underrepresented groups that can otherwise go unnoticed. Additionally, by collecting input from all member groups, the survey ensures we hear a broad range of perspectives.
How long will the survey take to complete?
Not long at all! Plan to set aside five to 10 minutes to finish the survey. And remember, your voice shapes AAOS so that we can be responsive to your needs. Everyone’s feedback matters.
How does AAOS act on member feedback?
AAOS doesn’t treat the survey as a one-time event but as an instrument for continuous improvement. The MVAS ensures that member voices shape the organization’s direction, services, and culture. Key governance bodies review the results of the survey to identify trends, concerns, and opportunities. The results are then mapped to AAOS’ current strategic goals (e.g., member relevance, engagement, education), and these data help AAOS refine its initiatives and offerings. These results are shared across our councils, committees, and departments (e.g., education, advocacy, communications) so every part of AAOS can act on relevant feedback. Once compiled and reviewed, we share the results with our members through the aaos.org website, AAOS Now, emails, and annual reports.
For more information about the MVAS, visit aaos.org/weheardyou.