UAB Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Professor and Chair Steven Theiss, M.D., was appointed to the North American Spine Society (NASS) International Education Commission. Theiss was also named co-chairperson to the Simulation Training work group within the commission, alongside Washington University Orthopedics Professor and Vice Chair Heidi Prather D.O.

The NASS International Education Commission is responsible for building and executing a continuing professional development program for spine care professionals across the globe. The commission creates and implements blend- and life-long learning curricula and initiatives that support the professional development of its members.

Within the commission’s work-group Simulation Training, Theiss will lead the way in ensuring fair and equitable access to quality training. According to the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), simulation training is an essential piece of surgical education, but the cost of cadaveric training continues to rise.

With increasing cost of simulation training in mind, Theiss will lead the task force in creating partnerships with companies that can integrate simulation services into NASS’s future blended-learning curricula. These critical partnerships support a robust and dynamic education program for spine professionals around the world.

Theiss is grateful for the opportunity to seek new and innovative approaches to simulation training through his appointment.

“I am looking forward to continuing to support professional development for spine-care professionals across the globe,” said Theiss. “This leadership position means that I have a front-row seat in the efforts and that the UAB Department of Orthopaedic Surgery is represented as a global voice.”