Shifts in Medicare - A discussion with Karl Koenig, MD, FAOA

Douglas W. Lundy, MD, MBA, FAOA, interviewed Karl Koenig, MD, FAOA, Executive Director and Adult Reconstruction Surgeon at Musculoskeletal Institute for the University of Texas at Austin, to discuss Shifts in Medicare.  Dr. Koenig touched on the different views for Medicare shifting payment systems and managing budget issues. While America has spent large amounts of money on healthcare, Dr. Koenig believes the payment system needs to be adjusted to improve patient outcomes. It is discussed how Medicare is trying to move in a different direction by creating relationships between the specialists and Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), so they can work together and achieve the same goals. Drs. Lundy and Koenig transitioned to a discussion on bundle payments; and explained the pros and cons for both physicians and patients. Overall, Dr. Koenig stated there are different views on Medicare, but the goal is to have the surgeons’ incentives be more aligned with the patients, to give them the best care possible.