Clinical Component

Navigating the Clinical Component

Balanced Surgical Practice with Exceptional Resources

Your clinical practice at UC Health Pueblo Neurosurgery offers the ideal combination of case variety and predictability. You'll primarily manage an elective surgical practice (approximately 85% spine and 15% cranial cases) that allows for thoughtful case selection and surgical planning. Unlike high-volume trauma centers where emergent cases frequently disrupt schedules and personal life, this practice maintains a manageable emergency component while focusing on scheduled procedures that benefit from careful preparation and follow-up.

The surgical facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology that rivals or exceeds what's available in many academic centers. You'll have access to advanced navigation and visualization tools that enhance surgical precision and outcomes, including:

  • Stryker navigation system for precise anatomical guidance
  • Brain lab technology for sophisticated neuroimaging integration
  • Globus spine robot for minimally invasive approaches
  • Surgical microscope for enhanced visualization
  • Cutting-edge exoscope with 90-inch monitors and 3D vision

Efficient Clinical Flow and Support

Your typical week will include two dedicated OR days where you'll perform approximately 5–6 cases, providing an excellent balance between surgical volume and thorough patient care. With Dr. Murad currently performing around 10 cases weekly across four OR days, there is ample surgical volume to support your practice growth from day one.

The two clinic days in your weekly schedule are structured to maximize efficiency while preserving the quality of patient interactions. The highly experienced APPs serve as force multipliers, enabling you to focus on surgical candidates and complex cases while they handle routine follow-ups and initial evaluations.

  • Clinical volume of 8–12 patients daily with APP support for additional capacity
  • Dedicated MAs to assist with clinical workflow
  • Rare clinic cancellations, reflecting the practice's commitment to consistent patient care
  • Flexible accommodations including lunch-hour appointments when needed
  • Backup coverage from APPs if you occasionally need to cancel clinic

Manageable Call Responsibilities

Your call schedule reflects the practice's commitment to physician well-being, with a manageable 1:4 rotation (approximately 7 days monthly) that allows you to maintain personal commitments and family time. Unlike the exhausting schedules common in many hospital settings, this balanced approach means you'll typically take call just one weekend per month.

  • Experienced APPs taking first call, significantly reducing overnight disruptions
  • Capability to review imaging remotely in many cases
  • Focused responsibility for your own patients on call
  • Opportunity for additional compensation for any extra call coverage
  • Predictable call schedule allowing for better personal planning

Patient Population and Case Mix

The practice serves a diverse population with a wide range of neurosurgical needs, with most patients seeking care for spine-related conditions. With minimal local competition, you'll quickly develop a steady referral stream of patients specifically seeking your expertise.

  • Predominantly elective spine procedures (60–70% of surgical volume)
  • General neurosurgery including management of subdural hematomas
  • Basic trauma cases appropriate for a Level 3 trauma center
  • Complex cases selectively transferred based on facility capabilities and your interests
  • Opportunity to shape your practice focus based on your training and preferences

The combination of advanced technology, experienced support staff, and manageable emergency responsibilities creates an environment where you can focus on delivering high-quality care without the burnout-inducing pressures common in many neurosurgical practices.

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