In advocacy address, Senator Barrasso comments on areas of concern to Americans

DALLAS — Orthopedic surgeon Sen. John Barrasso, MD, (R-Wyo.), said in his advocacy address at the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons Annual Meeting that he hopes orthopedic surgeons can inspire each other through the lessons they have learned and their leadership efforts.

Barrasso

His 15-minute message also included some global topics, such as having a strong U.S. military.

“They make all of us proud as they keep us safe and they keep us free,” Barrasso said.

However, he included more than a few hot topics in his speech, some of which were health care-related.

“Obesity, ... it is the new smoking,” Barrasso said, noting the obesity crisis is associated with more than $180 billion in health costs per year.

An insurance-related medical topic he touched on was the Affordable Care Act. He said since it passed, 88 rural hospital have closed and events like this are taking a toll on Americans.

“Let me end by encouraging each and every one of you to be involved in your community in ways outside of medicine, because the Bible says to who[m] much has been given, much will be expected. We have been so blessed ... to live in this great country, and I’m so grateful to be with you,” Barrasso said. – by Susan M. Rapp

Reference:

Barrasso J. Advocacy address by U.S. Senator John Barrasso, MD. Presented at: American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons Annual Meeting; Nov. 2-5, 2017; Dallas.

Disclosure: Barrasso reports no relevant financial disclosures.