The healthcare landscape is transforming at lightning speed, with consolidation reshaping how orthopaedic care is delivered across America. In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. David Jevsevar, CEO of OrthoVirginia, shares his unique perspective gained from navigating nearly every side of this complex equation—from private practice founder to hospital executive to leader of one of the nation's premier orthopaedic mega groups.

Whether you're contemplating your first practice or considering a job change, this conversation offers invaluable guidance from those who've successfully navigated multiple transitions.

AOA Emerging Leader Aaron Brandt, MD, had a discussion with Antonia Chen, MD, FAOA, and Clayton Nuelle, MD, about transitioning jobs early in your career, and how to decide what your non-negotiables are for your workplace environment.

What drives these transitions? As our guests reveal, it's often a combination of "push factors" moving you away from your current situation and "pull factors" drawing you toward new opportunities. Despite the statistic that over 50% of surgeons change their first job within three years, these transitions are rarely discussed openly, leaving many physicians feeling isolated when considering a move.

Both physicians share candid insights about creating personal lists of "negotiables" versus "non-negotiables" when evaluating both current and potential positions. Both surgeons advocate for transparency with leadership when considering opportunities and leveraging mentorship networks to find positions aligned with your evolving career goals. They also discuss practical considerations like understanding contract terms around tail insurance, signing bonuses, and trailing collections before making any move.

Douglas W. Lundy, MD, MBA, FACS, FAOA, discussed the future of orthopaedic trauma with William T. Obremskey, MD, FAOA, Director of Orthopaedic Trauma at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Obremskey shares his vision for the future of orthopaedic trauma surgery, focusing on reducing complications through advanced technologies and improved practices.

Perhaps most thought-provoking is Dr. Obremskey's perspective that some of the most impactful advances may not come from fancy technology at all—but from addressing underlying patient factors like smoking cessation and blood sugar control that dramatically affect healing outcomes. The future of trauma care involves both cutting-edge science and fundamental public health initiatives working in tandem.