Mary E. Cassai, MPA, RN, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Hospital for Special Surgery

In this episode, Brandon P. Hirsch, MD, FAAOS, Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon at DISC Sports and Spine Center, discusses the expanding role of telemedicine, key policy changes shaping patient access, and emerging disruptors such as endoscopic techniques and digital engagement. He also shares his perspective on national healthcare reform and its direct impact on spine care.

In this episode, Anthony J. Tortolani, MD, FACS, FACC, Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeon and Professor Emeritus of Clinical Cardiothoracic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, discusses the realities of declining profit margins and how leaders are balancing financial pressures with clinical excellence. He explores practical applications of AI in clinical medicine, including improvements in efficiency and less invasive surgical approaches, and shares why aligning strategic vision with day-to-day tactical planning is essential for long-term success in cardiovascular care.

In this episode, Molly Van Oordt, Director of Specialty Account Management at NextGen Healthcare, discusses how orthopedic and MSK practices are leveraging automation, mobile tools, and AI to address staffing shortages, reduce administrative burden, and improve patient access as demand continues to rise heading into 2026.This episode was sponsored by NextGen Healthcare.

In this episode, Michael Verdon, DO, FACOS, Neurological Spine Surgeon at Transcendent Care, Inc., discusses the challenge of delivering the same high level of spine care with fewer resources and the expanding clinical applications of AI. He highlights where he expects the most meaningful growth in the next 1–2 years, including efforts to standardize patient care, and explains how technologies traditionally used in the operating room are increasingly migrating into the clinic to improve efficiency and outcomes.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Dr. Michael Redler, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Connecticut Orthopaedics. Dr. Redler discusses trends driving ASC growth, the role of advanced technology and AI in improving patient care and efficiency, and the benefits of collaboration between ASCs and health systems.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Tara Good-Young, MSHA, CASC, CEO, PDI Surgery Center. Tara discusses trends driving ASC growth, strategies for leveraging AI and technology to improve efficiency and patient experience, and the importance of collaboration with vendors and providers to optimize operations and sustainability.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Brenda Fernández, MBA, Chief Financial Officer, Puerto Rico ASC Holding. Brenda discusses strategies for financial stewardship, leveraging technology and AI to optimize ASC operations, and opportunities for collaboration and growth in the outpatient surgery space.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Dr. Nikhil Shetty, Chief Operating Officer, Midwest Interventional Spine Specialists. Dr. Shetty shares how independent ASCs are leveraging technology, lean operations, and price transparency to deliver faster, safer, and more patient-centered care while maintaining flexibility and efficiency in a growing outpatient surgery market.

This episode recorded live at the Becker’s 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference features Dr. Ramis Gheith, Chief Medical Officer, DxTx Pain and Spine. Dr. Gheith shares how physician-owned ASCs are reshaping care delivery, highlights the transformative role of AI in spinal therapies and informed consent, and emphasizes the power of mission-driven culture in attracting top healthcare talent.

This episode recorded live at Becker’s 31st Annual The Business and Operations of ASCs features Bob Bishop, Chief Designer, JointSpace. Bob discusses how emerging technologies like blockchain and advanced digital tools are transforming ambulatory surgery centers by streamlining operations, enhancing patient care, and restoring direct, trusted relationships between doctors and patients.