The Spokane Spine Team is a multidisciplinary group of spine specialists delivering coordinated care for complex spinal conditions across the Inland Northwest. By combining advanced diagnostics, surgical expertise, and personalized rehabilitation, this team helps patients restore function and improve quality of life.
Through shared protocols, regular case conferences, and a patient-centered approach, the Spokane Spine Team ensures timely, evidence-based decisions for each referral and self-directed visit.
| Clinician | Role | Subspecialty Focus | Clinic Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Alex Morgan | Attending Neurosurgeon | Minimally invasive spine surgery | Downtown Spokane |
| Dr. Priya Patel | Orthopedic Spine Surgeon | Complex deformity and reconstruction | South Spokane |
| Sarah Kim, PA-C | Physician Assistant | Preoperative optimization and follow-up | East Spokane |
| Jordan Lee, DPT | Physical Therapist | Postoperative rehabilitation and manual therapy | Spokane Valley |
| Riley Chen, MD | Pain Management Specialist | Interventional pain procedures | Downtown Spokane |
Multidisciplinary Spine Evaluation Process
The Spokane Spine Team follows a structured evaluation workflow to align on diagnosis and treatment goals. Coordinated intake, shared imaging review, and consensus recommendations help reduce redundant testing and accelerate care planning for referring providers and patients.
Surgical and Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Depending on the clinical presentation, the Spokane Spine Team selects from a broad range of interventions, including physical therapy, targeted injections, minimally invasive decompression, and complex instrumented fusion. This flexibility allows stepwise care that can escalate or de-escalate based on response and patient preference.
Recovery Timeline and Functional Goals
Recovery expectations are mapped to each patient’s baseline function, surgical approach, and comorbidities. The team emphasizes early mobilization, graded activity progression, and clear benchmarks for returning to work, driving, and recreational activities to support realistic outcomes.
Advanced Imaging and Diagnostic Capabilities
Access to onsite advanced imaging, including weight-bearing flexion-extension studies and MRI coordination, enables precise anatomical correlation. The Spokane Spine Team uses these data to tailor surgical planning and determine candidacy for motion-preserving techniques.
Key Takeaways for Patients and Referring Providers
- Multidisciplinary coordination streamlines evaluation and reduces redundant testing.
- Treatment plans range from conservative care to complex minimally invasive and reconstructive surgery.
- Shared decision-making incorporates functional goals, imaging findings, and patient risk factors.
- Clear recovery timelines and rehabilitation protocols support safer return to daily activities.
- Ongoing communication with referring providers ensures continuity and timely updates.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I refer a patient to the Spokane Spine Team, and what information is needed?
Referrers should send recent imaging, operative reports, and a brief summary of clinical history through the secure referral portal, including relevant functional limitations and prior treatments.
What can I expect during the first coordinated clinic visit with the Spokane Spine Team?
The visit typically includes a joint consultation with a surgeon and physical therapist, review of imaging, discussion of treatment options, and a clear plan for next steps or further testing.
Are second opinions available through the Spokane Spine Team, and how long does the process take?
Yes, the team provides structured second opinions, with a written summary delivered within two weeks after completing records review, imaging, and an appointment as clinically indicated.
What insurance networks are covered by providers on the Spokane Spine Team?
Providers participate with major regional insurers; exact coverage and prior authorization requirements vary by plan and should be verified with the scheduling and insurance coordination team.