Originally published by Forbes on December 12, 2025.
In this cross-posted commentary originally published in Forbes, Richard Menger, MD, MPA, examines a question patients and physicians alike are asking: Why does modern medical care feel so rushed?
Drawing on his dual background as a neurosurgeon and political scientist, Dr. Menger breaks down the structural forces shaping today’s clinic experience — from physician workforce shortages and hospital consolidation to Medicare reimbursement models that prioritize volume over complexity. He explains how policies tied to work RVUs, E&M coding and centralized scheduling directly affect the time physicians can spend with patients, particularly those with complex neurosurgical needs.
This piece underscores why advocacy matters. The pressures described are not the result of individual physician choices, but of federal policy decisions that influence access, quality and sustainability of neurosurgical care. Understanding these dynamics is essential as AANS continues to engage lawmakers on workforce reform, fair reimbursement and protecting physician autonomy.
Read the full article on Forbes.
