For neurosurgery residents, our practice often begins and ends within the OR and clinics, deeply embedded in the technical and clinical aspects of becoming a surgeon. Yet, participating in the biannual meetings of the Council of State Neurosurgical Societies (CSNS) opened an entirely different world of neurosurgery: the world of healthcare policy and socioeconomic advocacy that shapes the landscape of patient care across the nation. The CSNS, as an influential body within organized neurosurgery, addresses the socioeconomic issues impacting not only our patients and the care delivered but our profession at large. In these meetings, we see firsthand the power of advocacy to address not only local issues in California but also policies that benefit neurosurgical patients nationwide.

My recent participation in CSNS discussions and the voting resolution process offered insights into the profound influence healthcare policies exert on patient access, safety, and care quality. From discussions on reimbursement structures to generating best practice guidelines to offer neurosurgical screenings for high-risk patients, these sessions highlight the frameworks that will shape our future practice. What truly struck me was the focus on policies promoting best practices not just within hospitals but at the state and national levels. For example, resolutions discussed during the sessions aim to mitigate reimbursement challenges, improve preoperative imaging coverage protocols, and advance practice guidelines that enhance overall neurosurgical care standards. Early career exposure to these conversations underscored the role residents can play in driving meaningful policy change for our field.

The CSNS offers a platform to champion patient-centered policies and engage in efforts to support our future neurosurgical practices. Attendance as a resident at these meetings has allowed early contribution to discussions that promote equitable access to neurosurgical care and advocate for measures protecting patient safety on a national level. It’s empowering to know that even as trainees, we can influence policy decisions that benefit both our patients and our practice. Not to mention, we can influence policy change for our co-residents and future generations – as the resolution to promote radiation safety training practices has gained traction over the last year. 

As busy as our residency schedules are, participation in organized neurosurgery is well worth the time and effort. The CSNS meetings have emboldened me to become a more active voice in the healthcare policy space, and I hope other neurosurgery residents will be motivated to do the same. Together, we have the unique opportunity to expand our reach beyond the hospital walls and impact patients on a national scale.