Dr. Larson’s Message – “Become the CEO of your health care”

“In August 2023, CDA Spine and Brain, PLLC celebrated its 20^–year anniversary as a state-of-the art and independent Neurosurgery and Spine practice in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.  These 2 decades have rewarded me and my staff with both the challenges and joys of treating so many Neurosurgery and Spine patients.  I enjoy what I do, and I trust you will see that enjoyment in my work and commitment to you when I address your Neurosurgery and Spine problems.  These problems are often difficult and challenging and I continue to push myself both clinically and academically to give you the best result, because treating patients like you is not just a job for me, it’s my passion.

I have been a Board-Certified Neurosurgeon for more than 25 years and I have a keen understanding of Neurosurgery and Spine problems and their potential solutions.  I have put in more than 10,000 hours, done more than 10,000 cases, and have gained the knowledge and expertise that comes with this vast experience.  I remain active in Neurosurgery and Spine professional societies, I have patented numerous spinal devices and techniques currently used in surgeries today, and I continue to perform and present clinical research at national meetings.

During this time, I have not only practiced as the Neurosurgeon and Medical Director of CDA Spine and Brain, but I have also devoted a large part of my professional life to my community as an on-call Neurosurgeon at Kootenai Health, to better serve you in the unlikely possibility that you have a Neurosurgery or Spine crisis or emergency. 

I have no intention of stopping.  In fact, I continue to improve the state-of-the-art services offered at CDA Spine and Brain. 

During this time CDA Spine and Brain has been in network with many commercial insurances, possibly including yours, as well as participating with Medicare and Medicaid.  However, it has been increasingly difficult to remain in network and continue to provide the level of care that is so important to both you and I in treating your Neurosurgery and Spine problem.  Your health is too important to me to compromise. 

Consequently, and after much deliberation and consultation with Neurosurgery and Spine colleagues in similar state-of-the-art Neurosurgery and Spine practices, and facing similar insurance related difficulties, I have decided to end my contract with all commercial insurance companies, Medicare, and Medacaid.  Instead, I am choosing to contract with you in this important doctor-patient relationship.  

This decision has come as a result of my desire to put your Neurosurgery and Spine care and my desire to be your doctor ahead of your insurance company’s processes and contractual requirements.  I choose to treat you how I think you should be treated as a Board-Certified Neurosurgeon, rather than by their rules.

Your insurance company may try to lead you elsewhere.  You may receive a letter or phone call from them recommending that you find another doctor, one who is “in network”, one who will continue to work under their rules and contractual obligations in guiding and treating your Neurosurgery and Spine care, one who will be more convenient to them.  Instead, I suggest that you consider becoming “CEO” of your own health care and research what is best for you rather than considering only what your insurance company authorizes you to do. 

If you choose to be a patient of mine, please know that I will be committed to you and your Neurosurgery and Spine health.  Although I will be considered an “out of network” provider with your insurance company, you still have the option to be a CDA Spine and Brain patient if you choose, and we will try to help you secure all of the insurance benefits you may have for our services.  Additionally, my outpatient surgery center will continue to remain contracted with most insurance companies for the services I provide to you.

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact my clinic for guidance through your options with CDA Spine and Brain.  I look forward to the possibility of treating you, the way you deserve to be treated with the best Neurosurgical and Spine care available for many years to come.”

Jeffrey Larson, M.D.