Becker’s Healthcare Podcast: Insights from Michael Boutros on Pain Management Innovations

Episode: Michael Bottros, Clinical Operations Chief and Medical Director for Pain Services, Department of Anesthesiology, Keck School of Medicine of USC
Release Date: July 12, 2025
Host: Gracelyn Keller
Recording Location: 22nd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management Conference

Introduction

Gracelyn Keller welcomes Michael Bottros to the Becker’s Healthcare Podcast, setting the stage for an in-depth discussion on current trends, challenges, and innovations in pain management within the healthcare industry.

Guest Profile

Michael Bottros serves as the Clinical Operations Chief and Medical Director for Pain Services at the Keck School of Medicine of USC. Additionally, he holds the roles of Pain Fellowship Director and Chair of the Opioid Stewardship Committee. His multifaceted responsibilities encompass overseeing outpatient pain procedures, developing care paths, and establishing protocols for both postoperative and chronic pain management [01:02].

Shifting Trends in Pain Management

Michael Bottros highlights a significant industry shift towards non-opioid pain management strategies, encompassing both pharmacological and interventional approaches.

Emergence of Non-Opioid Medications

A notable advancement is the FDA approval of Suzetragine, a non-opioid medication designed to manage acute pain episodes. This drug employs a novel mechanism, specifically targeting the sodium subtype 1.8 channel blockade, marking a new class of pain management medications. Bottros emphasizes the benefits:

“Suzetragine... can help manage their pain without some of the typical side effects that we see with opioids like nausea and vomiting... and questions about the risks of opioid addiction...” [01:45]

Advancements in Interventional Procedures

Beyond medications, there is a move towards more curative interventional procedures. Traditional treatments like epidural steroid injections provided temporary relief, whereas newer procedures such as minimally invasive lumbar decompression and BASI vertebral nerve ablation offer longer-lasting and more definitive solutions to pain management.

“These procedures provide longer lasting relief and more definitive approaches to taking care of what the actual problem is with the patient.” [02:45]

Navigating Staffing and Workforce Challenges

The healthcare sector continues to grapple with staffing and workforce shortages. Michael Bottros outlines several strategies his organization employs to attract and retain talent:

1. Competitive Compensation and Flexible Benefits: Ensuring that pay scales are attractive and benefits cater to the varying needs of staff.
2. Professional Development Opportunities: Offering educational programs such as “earn and learn” initiatives to encourage career advancement.
3. Technological Support: Partnering with third-party vendors to handle administrative tasks like pre-authorizations, thereby reducing the administrative burden on healthcare providers.

“We provide competitive pay and flexibility focused benefits... opportunity to move forward with more educational opportunities.” [04:03]

These measures not only enhance job satisfaction but also foster a culture of continuous learning and professional growth, which are critical for workforce retention.

Evolution of Outpatient Care in Orthopedics and Spine

As outpatient care continues to expand, its integration within the broader healthcare ecosystem becomes increasingly critical. Bottros discusses several key points:

Integration and Reimbursement

New procedures in orthopedics and spine care are often well-reimbursed, making them attractive for outpatient settings. However, these innovative procedures require more time for pre-authorization, necessitating adjustments in workflow and patient expectations.

“More time required to get these things pre authorized... setting expectations with patients...” [05:37]

Resource Allocation

With the advent of new procedures, healthcare providers must judiciously allocate resources to balance traditional and innovative treatments. Decisions must be made regarding which procedures are best suited for operating rooms versus outpatient clinics.

“How do we allocate resources more efficiently and effectively... allow all these newer procedures to compete with pre existing procedures...” [06:00]

Bottros underscores the importance of strategic planning to integrate these advancements seamlessly into clinical practice, ensuring both efficiency and high-quality patient care.

Innovations and Initiatives Enhancing Efficiency and Outcomes

Michael Bottros shares several initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and patient outcomes in pain management:

Protocolizing Efficiency

Implementing standardized protocols that incorporate non-opioid medications before procedures ensures patients are better prepared for post-operative care. This proactive approach reduces the reliance on opioids and mitigates associated risks.

“Incorporating specific medications that are non opioid and getting them in the hands of patients before their procedure...” [07:19]

Staying Current with Evidence-Based Practices

Continuous adoption of the latest evidence-based approaches is crucial. By staying abreast of new treatments and technologies, the organization can offer patients advanced pain relief options and maintain its reputation as an innovator in the field.

“We want to make sure that we're providing patients with the things that can empower them to achieve the type of pain relief that they're looking for...” [07:19]

Empowering Patients through Education

Educating patients about available pain management options empowers them to make informed decisions, enhances their trust in the healthcare system, and improves overall satisfaction with their care.

Conclusion

Michael Bottros provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of pain management, emphasizing the shift towards non-opioid solutions, the importance of addressing workforce challenges, and the need for strategic integration of new outpatient procedures. His emphasis on innovation, efficiency, and patient empowerment highlights the dynamic nature of healthcare and the ongoing efforts to enhance patient care within the pain management domain.

Grace Keller concludes the discussion by acknowledging Bottros's contributions and the significance of these advancements in shaping the future of healthcare.

Notable Quotes:

• “Suzetragine was recently approved by the FDA as a non opioid based approach to taking care of acute pain episodes...” [01:45]

• “We provide competitive pay and flexibility focused benefits... opportunity to move forward with more educational opportunities.” [04:03]

• “How do we allocate resources more efficiently and effectively... allow all these newer procedures to compete with pre existing procedures...” [06:00]

• “We want to make sure that we're providing patients with the things that can empower them to achieve the type of pain relief that they're looking for...” [07:19]

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights shared by Michael Bottros, offering valuable perspectives for healthcare professionals and stakeholders interested in the advancements and challenges within pain management.