2018 AANS Annual Scientific Meeting-Service and Healthcare Policy

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Frank Opelka, a colon and rectal surgeon and former faculty member of the LSU School of Medicine, began his speech by discussing his extensive background in the medical field and his involvement with various medical organizations such as the American College of Surgeons (ACS). He highlighted his role in responding to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the challenges faced in relocating and caring for the medical school, as well as his experience in advocating for patient safety and quality improvement initiatives. Dr. Opelka then shared his military experience, where he served as a surgeon for special operations soldiers. He discussed the need to redesign care and improve medical treatment on the battlefield. Upon leaving the military, he became involved in health policy, specifically with the RUC (Relative Value Scale Update Committee) and later with the LSU healthcare system. He described the challenges faced by the hospital system in Louisiana, the budget cuts, and the need for alternative solutions. Dr. Opelka outlined his strategic plan to lease the hospitals to private facilities and redirect the funds to provide care for the poor. He also mentioned his work with the ACS health policy team and their approach to tackling various issues in healthcare. He emphasized the importance of providing solutions rather than just highlighting problems and the need to focus on patient-centered care. The speech concluded with Dr. Opelka reflecting on his leadership role in the policy world and the ever-changing landscape of healthcare and policy in Washington, D.C. The video was captured during an ACS conference and Dr. Opelka expressed his appreciation for being invited to speak.

Asset Caption

Frank Opelka, MD

Keywords

Dr. Frank Opelka

colon and rectal surgeon

patient safety

health policy

budget cuts

patient-centered care