The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has affected all aspects of life in the United States and around the world. As this pandemic has spread, we have seen the devastating impact on health care systems. With no effective treatment and no vaccine currently available, the most effective means of slowing the dissemination of COVID-19 is through social distancing, crowd avoidance, appropriate quarantine, and other techniques intended to limit community exposure. Slowing the growth of COVID-19 cases is of critical importance to prevent our hospitals and critical care capacity from being overwhelmed. While the COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented challenge and is rapidly evolving, CNS and AANS leaders are acutely aware that this crisis is straining our health care system, and our members’ practices, as this viral infection continues to escalate. Despite these disruptions, neurosurgeons can do their part to help see our nation through this challenge.
Both organizations are exploring virtual options that deliver world-class education and offer continuing medical education to our members. While plans are nascent, we will keep the neurosurgical community apprised of our plans to deliver research, knowledge, and expert insight in the weeks and months ahead.
The CNS and AANS are also developing a COVID-19 information hub on their respective websites (please see below). This resource will allow our members to access a wide variety of COVID-19-related information and resources. Topics will include:
- Recommendations on Elective Surgery
- Government Information and Resources
- Practice Management
- CNS/AANS Advocacy Efforts
- Continuing Medical Education
- Additional Resources
We recognize that these are uncertain times and that this pandemic is affecting our members in countless ways. Working together, the CNS and AANS remain committed to helping you and the country get through this crisis.
Sincerely,
Steven N. Kalkanis, MD, FAANS, President
Congress of Neurological Surgeons
Christopher I. Shaffrey, MD, FAANS, President
American Association of Neurological Surgeons
Visit the COVID-19 Information Hub