Becker’s Healthcare Podcast: In-Depth Summary Episode: Dr. Ramis Gheith, Chief Medical Officer, DxTx Pain and Spine Release Date: July 12, 2025
Introduction
The Becker’s Healthcare Podcast, hosted by Grace Lynn Keller, provides insightful discussions with key figures in the U.S. healthcare landscape. In the July 12, 2025 episode, recorded live at the 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management Conference, Keller engages with Dr. Ramis Gheith, the Chief Medical Officer at DxTx Pain and Spine, to explore current trends, challenges, and innovations in the pain management and spine care sector.
Dr. Ramis Gheith’s Background and DxTx Pain and Spine
Timestamp [00:57]
Dr. Ramis Gheith introduces himself, detailing his extensive experience and role within DxTx Pain and Spine:
"I've been a physician for over two decades and excited to have joined DxTx Pain and Spine after meeting Dr. John Prunskas..."
— Dr. Ramis Gheith [00:57]
He emphasizes DxTx Pain and Spine's commitment to precise diagnosis and treatment of spine and pain conditions across approximately 60 locations in nine states. The organization prides itself on being majority physician and family-owned, fostering a model that emphasizes high physician ownership, respect, and compliant patient care. Additionally, DxTx offers comprehensive services including compliance, HR, finance, operations, and revenue cycle management, supporting growth and strategic planning for its network.
Current Industry Trends and Shifts
Timestamp [02:28]
When discussing prevailing trends, Dr. Gheith highlights a significant shift in the healthcare landscape:
"Throughout the years, we've noticed a significant shift of physicians and private practices moving away from hospital systems... entering the ambulatory surgical center world."
— Dr. Ramis Gheith [02:28]
He points out the growing physician ownership of Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs) and the increasing number of outpatient operations. This transition allows for greater physician autonomy and fosters closer patient relationships, as surgeries and treatments are increasingly performed outside traditional hospital settings.
Workforce Challenges and Strategies
Timestamp [03:12]
Addressing the pervasive issue of workforce challenges in healthcare, Dr. Gheith outlines DxTx Pain and Spine's approach to attracting and retaining talent:
"We define and communicate our mission very clearly. Great employees want to work somewhere with purpose... We build a strong employer brand, our reputation is everything."
— Dr. Ramis Gheith [03:12]
His strategy encompasses more than just competitive salaries. It involves clearly articulating the organization's mission, fostering a sense of purpose among employees, showcasing patient success stories, and maintaining active community involvement. This comprehensive approach has enabled DxTx to attract quality staff even in a competitive market.
The Evolving Role of Orthopedics, Spine, and ASCs in Healthcare
Timestamp [04:35]
Dr. Gheith discusses the transformative role of orthopedics and spine care within the broader healthcare ecosystem:
"We are moving away from the hospital based model to the independent ambulatory surgical center model where doctors have more independence... removing that middleman that's in the room, particularly the hospitals."
— Dr. Ramis Gheith [04:35]
He envisions ASCs surpassing hospital outpatient departments by offering greater autonomy to physicians, enhancing patient interactions, and streamlining surgical care. This shift not only improves operational efficiency but also contributes to better patient outcomes by fostering more personalized care environments.
Innovations and Technological Initiatives
Timestamp [05:38]
Exploring the role of technology in advancing patient care, Dr. Gheith identifies Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a pivotal innovation:
"Artificial intelligence is playing a massive role in the care that we provide... how patients find us to seek the care that they need."
— Dr. Ramis Gheith [05:38]
He references a study led by Dr. John Prunskas, published by multiple DxTx Pain and Spine physicians, which examines the integration of AI in spinal cord stimulation therapies. This innovative approach enhances diagnostic accuracy, treatment personalization, and overall patient care efficiency.
Future Developments and Concluding Remarks
Timestamp [06:32]
In his final remarks, Dr. Gheith shares upcoming initiatives aimed at further integrating technology into patient care:
"We're integrating AI and digitizing our informed consent process... patients are able to learn about their procedures prior to arriving to the surgery center."
— Dr. Ramis Gheith [06:32]
Key developments include:
- Digital Informed Consent: Utilizing platforms like Anchor Healthcare to educate patients about procedures remotely, allowing for informed, thoughtful decision-making.
- Enhanced Educational Processes: Providing patients with accessible information to review procedures multiple times, facilitating better preparation and engagement.
- Improved Patient and Staff Satisfaction: These technological integrations have led to higher patient satisfaction rates, more educated nursing staff, and a stronger sense of accomplishment among employees.
Dr. Gheith emphasizes that these advancements not only improve operational efficiency but also significantly enhance the patient experience, signaling a promising future for DxTx Pain and Spine within the evolving healthcare landscape.
Conclusion
Grace Lynn Keller concludes the episode by thanking Dr. Ramis Gheith for his valuable insights, encapsulating the discussion on industry shifts, workforce strategies, and technological innovations shaping the future of pain and spine management. The conversation underscores the importance of physician autonomy, technological integration, and a purpose-driven organizational culture in navigating current and future challenges in healthcare.
Note: This summary is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the podcast episode for those who have not listened to it, capturing all essential discussions, key points, and expert insights shared by Dr. Ramis Gheith.