Michael R. Klein, M.D. Receives 2023 NASS Spine Advocacy Award

Michael R. Klein, M.D., a clinical professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of California, Davis Medical Center, has been given the Spine Advocacy Award by the North American Spine Society (NASS). This award recognizes members of NASS who have made exceptional contributions to the federal advocacy efforts on behalf of patients and members of the society.

“I am overwhelmed being honored by my colleagues with this prestigious award,” said Dr. Klein to OTW. “I didn’t think I was doing as much as the other members of the Advocacy Council & SpinePAC Advisory Committee and our dedicated staff. I continue to learn the intricacies of advocacy and the wonderful feeling of having done something that enhances spine care in our country.”

The founder of MRK Medical Consultants, Dr. Klein was the first medical director of Northern California Orthopedic Centers, now called Summit Orthopedics. He participated in the development of the orthopedic section of the Level II Trauma Center at Mercy San Juan Medical Center in Carmichael, California.

A NASS member for 14 years, Dr. Klein was awarded the David Selby Award in 2020 for his contributions to multiple committees as the facilitator of SpineConnect and co-chair of the SpinePAC Advisory Committee. As co-chair of the SpinePAC Advisory Committee, he has opened his home, hosting many successful SpinePAC fundraising dinners. He has hosted numerous such events across the country as well and is making plans for additional fundraisers.

“Dr. Klein has been extremely generous with his time and efforts to NASS over the years,” said Eric Muehlbauer, NASS Executive Director. “From hosting SpinePAC events to helping create an online platform, we appreciate his wide-ranging expertise.”

Dr. Klein retired from the USAF Medical Corps in 1998 after being on active duty during the Vietnam War; in 1991 he was activated for Operation Desert Storm. A private pilot who enjoys international travel, Dr. Klein most enjoys spending time with his four grandchildren. Dr. Klein received his Master of Science in anatomy from Drexel University and his medical degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine.

When asked by OTW how surgeons can participate in fundraising and advocacy, Dr. Klein said, “Encouraging U.S. NASS members to donate to SpinePAC is a constant challenge. All our efforts focus on connecting with members of Congress who are on committees writing, discussing, and eventually passing legislation beneficial to maintaining and improving spinal care to Americans. We rely on their contributions to meet our goals we are not permitted to accept financial assistance from industry.”

“SpinePAC is your ONLY voice on the hill. Unless we continue our dialogue with members of Congress to rescind pending bills to decrease reimbursement and markedly limit pre-authorization, U.S. spine care providers are facing severe changes in their income and ongoing aggravation of spending increased time fighting for authorization of diagnostic studies and procedures.”