Alison L. Cabrera, MD, FAAOS
Orthopaedic Surgeon
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Frisco, TX
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
I am now 10 years in my career and became interested in the politics of medicine from the AAOS Now publication. I found myself most interested in the political updates. Now, I have served on the Council of Delegates for the American Orthopaedic Society of Sports Medicine and currently am on the Political Action Committee for the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Society. I have learned so much from joining these committees. Most importantly, that we need our voices to be heard and how to best advocate for our profession and patients.
As an Active Fellow Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
I have utilized the Online Practice Prep Plans initially for my own learning from the experts in my field and now for teaching residents. I also enjoyed being invited by the AAOS to participate in the Orthopaedic Advocacy week and enjoyed the responses I received from social media posts regarding Orthopaedic concerns such as patient access to care among other topics.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
“Your patients may love you, but they will always be able to replace you if something were to happen to you. Your family will not. Make family a priority.” Who was it from? Dr. Jeff Abrams, shoulder surgeon from New Jersey came to Nashville TN where I was a fellow, and I got to spend some time with him. He told me this and I have hung onto this piece of advice to make sure I am making time for family always. I try to be present and not distracted (by work or phone) when I am with my husband and three sons. This can be challenging but worth the effort!
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
I have a small journal that holds a work to do list, and that way I don’t delay trying to remember what needs to be prioritized next time I have a cancelled surgery/ free time.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
Getting good quality sleep. Limiting computer use/tv before bed, etc. I feel I am at my best if I get good sleep.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
I enjoy lifting weights as part of my cardio routine. I really enjoy working out in my garage gym.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I can play the piano, but don’t like to play for others. I am currently learning to play the Love Theme from St. Elmo’s Fire. This song was one of the few songs I enjoyed listening to on the “smooth jazz” radio station in my dad’s car growing up.