The AANS Neurosurgeon is the official socioeconomic publication of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) and features information and analysis for contemporary neurosurgical practice. It focuses on topics related to legislation, workforce issues and practice management as they affect the specialty of neurosurgery. In the December 2016 edition, the AANS Neurosurgeon explores the theme, “Neurosurgical Subspecialization,” which discusses the impact of subspecialization on neurosurgeons, neurosurgical training and patients.
Should all neurosurgeons be trained in general neurosurgical care, or should they have a base knowledge and then expand into specializing within fields such as pediatric, skull base and neuro-oncology? Who is the right surgeon for your patient? Should fellowships be enfolded, or when should they occur? Will we have the answers by 2033 regarding subspecialization? These questions, along with many others, are answered throughout a number of articles in this publication.
Some highlights of the issue:
- Update from the American Board of Neurological Surgeons
- Value and Potential Disadvantages of Working in a Subspecialty: A Personal View
- Developing a Core Foundation for Successful Practice of Neurosurgery
- Neurosurgical Workforce Shortage: The Effect of Subspecialization and a Case for Shortening Residency Training
- The Financial Impact of Neurosurgery on the Individual and the Institution
- Point: In Defense of the Enfolded Fellowship: A Case Study
- Counterpoint: Regionalization of Neurosurgical Care, Not Subspecialization of Providers
Elsewhere in the issue, readers can check out additional theme-related articles, as well as book reviews and updates from the Washington, D.C., office via its “Washington Watch” column and a brief overview of Medicare’s new Quality Payment Program.
In addition to its regularly updated Twitter page, the AANS Neurosurgeon also boasts a new Facebook page. Follow both social media accounts to read articles and stay current on the latest neurosurgical news.
