The only patient-centered nonprofit dedicated to helping patients overcome spinal conditions—the National Spine Health Foundation—has announced that Rajiv Sethi, M.D. has been named Chairman of the Medical & Scientific Board, while Todd Albert, M.D. and Lawrence Lenke, M.D. have joined the organization’s Board of Directors.
Dr. Sethi, Medical Director of the Center of Neurosciences and Spine at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, succeeds Thomas Schuler, M.D., who remains on the Board of Directors.
“I am delighted to pass the torch to Dr. Rajiv Sethi as the next Chairman of the Medical & Scientific Board,” said outgoing Medical and Scientific Board chair and current Board President Dr. Thomas Schuler to OTW. “The National Spine Health Foundation will always be dedicated to building a trusted resource for patients where we not only celebrate the positive strides in spinal healthcare but also enhance the patient experience through education, advocacy and research.”
Dr. Sethi explained to OTW, “My priority for the National Spine Health Foundation is to be the pre-eminent source for patient empowerment in decision-making. This includes bringing together experts from around the country and providing cutting-edge information in a user-friendly format for all patients with spinal conditions. This includes highlighting the best center-of-excellence models of spinal care and value-based platforms that embody the highest quality for patients.”
“My first steps in my new role are to connect with all members of the medical and scientific board in order to develop a cohesive and transparent strategy around content and philanthropic contribution to our mission and vision.”
Todd Albert, M.D., Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus at Hospital for Special Surgery, commented to OTW, “I became involved with the National Spine Health Foundation because the mission really resonated with me and what I desire for our patients, which is great information and a resource of honesty and truth about spinal disorders.”
“The National Spine Health Foundation’s profile will be raised naturally by continuing to pursue that mission and incrementally reaching more patients and their providers.”
Lawrence Lenke, M.D. is Chief of Spinal Deformity Surgery in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. He told OTW, “I am fortunate to be a part of the National Spine Health Foundation, which serves as a platform for disseminating patient-centered factual information. My commitment to educating and advocating for patients with various spine afflictions, especially various spinal deformities, aligns seamlessly with the NSHF’s mission.”
“I have been amazed at the coordination and communication of the NSHF at its administrative level, especially with the past and current leadership of Dr. Schuler and CEO Rita Roy. This is a ‘let’s get things done’ organization looking at improving knowledge and education for patients with spine disease on many different fronts.”
When OTW asked what priorities and projects he would like to see undertaken at the nonprofit, he stated, “I believe the National Spine Health Foundation has only reached the tip of the massive iceberg of patients needing treatment for spinal problems. It has thus far focused on surgical patients, but since more than 90% of patients with spine disease will not require surgery, focusing on this extensive non-operative population will be critical to future success.”
About the National Spine Health Foundation
The National Spine Health Foundation (NSHF), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is the only patient-centered organization dedicated to making moves that keep Americans moving. The NSHF helps Americans avoid and alleviate neck and back pain by educating consumers on practical ways to lead a spine-safe lifestyle; researching and amplifying life-saving treatments and surgeries; and advocating for changes that would improve the state of spine health in America. The NSHF is home to a prestigious Medical & Scientific Board that includes 50 of the nation’s leading experts in spine, as well as the “Get Back to It” podcast, which shares real stories of healing and recovery from individuals who have overcome neck and back pain. Learn more at spinehealth.org.
