Optimized: Orthopedic Patient Outcomes & Practice Success

In this episode, Dr. Anderson shares a practical, patient-first approach for engaging overweight and obese patients without stigma—and with results. We’ll cover his language and mindset framework, clinical guardrails for timing surgery, and the team-based protocol he uses to help patients make progress before and after procedures. We’ll also explore how virtual lifestyle health programs can extend the clinic, improve readiness and recovery, and reduce frustrating “ping-pong” referrals—while keeping the surgeon focused on surgery and outcomes.

This episode of the Optimized Podcast features Andrew Wade, CEO of OrthoSC, the region’s most preferred orthopedic practice. Andrew shares his journey in healthcare leadership, from managing smaller practices to leading an organization with 86 providers. He discusses strategies for maintaining operational excellence, scaling patient care across multiple locations, and leveraging technology to enhance patient access. Andrew also dives into the role of artificial intelligence and predictive analytics in orthopedic practice management, the challenges of adopting new technology, and the leadership principles that foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Tune in for insights on the future of orthopedic care and the key strategies driving practice success.

In this episode of Optimized, we sit down with Dr. Brian Fuller, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and veteran of both the U.S. Army and Rush University Medical Center. Dr. Fuller shares how his unique background shapes his hip and knee arthroplasty approach, offering insights into patient preparation, post-surgical recovery, and the evolving role of technology in orthopedic care. We dive into his views on strength training for aging populations, the growing role of virtual rehabilitation, and how smart implants and 3D planning could redefine surgical precision. Dr. Fuller also discusses the importance of nutrition, patient education, and the power of sleep in recovery. From clinic to cold plunge, his insights bridge surgical excellence with everyday wellness.

In this episode of Optimized, we sit down with Thomas Cunningham, a seasoned expert in private equity, healthcare M&A, and physician practice management. Thomas shares key insights on financial growth strategies for independent orthopedic practices, the critical role of ancillary revenue, and how telehealth and remote patient monitoring are shaping the future of musculoskeletal care. We dive into the biggest trends in private practice consolidation, the common mistakes practices make when implementing ancillary services, and what business strategies will be most critical for orthopedic groups to remain independent, profitable, and patient-focused in the years ahead. Whether you’re a practice leader, physician, or healthcare executive, this episode offers a strategic roadmap for navigating the changing landscape of orthopedic care at private practices.

In this episode of the Optimized Podcast, we sit down with Dave Zauha, Executive Director of Nebraska Spine + Pain Center, to explore how independent practices can thrive through collaboration, innovation, and strategic leadership. Dave shares his philosophy on creating efficient, patient-first systems, leveraging telemedicine and digital tools, and building strong internal cultures that support both staff and patients. He offers insights into ancillary service development, how to choose the right partners, and why private practices should be working together—not competing—to navigate the challenges of modern healthcare. This conversation is a must-listen for practice leaders looking to grow smarter, serve better, and strengthen the future of spine and orthopedic care.