Bioinformatics is the field of science in which biology, computer science, and information technology merge to form a single discipline. Spine informatics can be defined as the intersection of spine science, computer science, and a spine pathology database. This emerging field will strongly impact future spinecare. It will enable the discovery of new biological insights and be used to develop global databases from which unifying principles in spine physiology and pathology can be discerned. Spine informatics encompasses the technology and methods required to optimize the acquisition, storage, retrieval, and use of information in spinecare. Informatics tools include computers, merged databases, and communication systems.
Software programs will be designed to identify specific findings such as disease characteristics or structural features on imaging studies and map them to standard ontologies in an accepted lexicon. This will allow for quick and comprehensive retrieval of information on patients with spine disorders who have had imaging studies done. Major advances in spinecare will emerge secondary to broader development and application of informatics. It will help drive population-based prevention programs and community education.
Welcome to the Inform a Colleague area of the Academy Website. The American Academy of Spine Physicians (AASP) strives to implement new and more efficient methods for members to communicate with other healthcare professionals. One of the most effective tools is the online "Inform a Colleague" function. This function can be used to expand and educate your spinecare referral network. It also represents a resource to conveniently inform others about trends in spinecare and about offers of organizations such as the American Academy of Spine Physicians (AASP), the International Spine Association (ISA). The link library also contains an application for membership with the AASP.
The online "Inform a Colleague" feature provides an invaluable time-saving service for keeping spinecare professionalsup-to-date, expanding the spinecare network, stimulating interdisciplinary referrals and for inviting colleagues to join the AASP. The library of links is always being updated with useful information and resources. The linked messages can be used to
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Member:
This level of membership is for physicians (MD, DC, DO) whose practice/interest includes patients with spinal disorders. ($250)
Affiliate Member:
This level of membership is for allied healthcare professionals involved in spinecare and/or spine research. This includes physical therapists, massage therapists, exercise physiologists, nurse practitioners, nurses, physician's assistants, diagnostic technicians, surgical technicians, exercise instructors, personal trainers and individuals who hold a PhD and work in the field of spinecare. ($150)
Candidate Member:
This level of membership is for residents, fellows and students who have an interest in spinecare. ($35)
Membership will automatically renew each calendar year starting from the date of membership renewal or membership acceptance unless the AASP is specifically notified in writing by the member at least 30 days prior to their renewal date. Please address all correspondence to the AASP Office of Member Services.
Review the accuracy of your contact information and practice profile information including your email address. To update your profile online go to spinephysicians.org and login using your unique member ID and PIN as noted below.
Please notify the AASP if you no longer meet membership criteria. This includes maintaining an active license to practice.