With physicians facing growing legislative, regulatory, and administrative challenges that threaten their ability to deliver timely, high-quality patient care, AAOS mobilized its members to share their experiences and encourage lawmakers to act on the issues affecting musculoskeletal care.

The occasion was the sixth annual Orthopaedic Advocacy Week, held during the first week of August. Through a series of virtual advocacy opportunities, participants were able to engage from wherever they practice, champion reforms to reduce unnecessary burdens, and advocate for policies that protect their patients and the future of the orthopaedic profession.

From shrinking Medicare reimbursement and burdensome prior authorization requirements to increasing regulatory demands and workforce challenges, physicians are confronting an unprecedented wave of policy decisions that directly affect patient care.

“With recent CMS proposals that could significantly reshape the future of orthopaedic practice and patient access to care, our members’ engagement in sharing their perspectives with policymakers is more important than ever,” said AAOS Advocacy Council Chair Joel Mayerson, MD, FAAOS. “Together, we have an opportunity to educate decision makers that musculoskeletal healthcare is best led by the physicians who care for patients every day and understand firsthand how these policies affect access, quality, and outcomes.”

This year’s Orthopaedic Advocacy Week comprised four days, each focused on a distinct facet of advocacy: legislative, regulatory, state, and Political Action Committee involvement.

“I’m energized by the commitment, passion, and collaboration of our members. At a time of unprecedented challenges for physicians, orthopaedic surgeons are coming together to support our profession and safeguard the future of musculoskeletal care,” said Wayne Johnson, MD, FAAOS, FACS, executive committee chair of the Political Action Committee of the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoPAC).

“As orthopaedic surgeons, we know that time is one of our most valuable resources. I sincerely thank the members who dedicate time during Orthopaedic Advocacy Week to advocate for our profession and the patients we serve,” said Dr. Mayerson. “Every letter sent, every conversation held, and every personal story shared helps amplify the voice of orthopaedics and reinforce the importance of preserving access to high-quality musculoskeletal care for patients across the country.”

The Political Action Committee of the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoPAC) is affiliated with and connected to the 501(c)(6) Association. OrthoPAC is not connected to or affiliated with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, which is a 501(c)(3) organization. For more information on all OrthoPAC efforts, visit aaos.org/advocacy/pac.