Since its inception in 2013, the Canadian Spine Outcomes and Research Network (CSORN) has been a great success. CSORN’s rapid rise to international academic acclaim has occurred both through the hard work of its members and industry partners, and its unwavering commitment to three core objectives: the establishment of a densely populated national registry, the creation of ongoing prospective studies, continually presenting and publishing research that impacts patient care worldwide. The realization of these objectives has triggered discussions to enable expansion and innovation that will help CSORN to become a world leader in spine care and research.
A recurring theme of these discussions has been the need for fresh ideas, renewed energy and strong leadership for the future. These needs become reality with the creation of a clear succession plan within the Steering Committee and investigator membership. Incorporating extensive deliberations and feedback from the investigators, the CSORN Steering Committee produced guidelines for its composition, terms and qualifications. The Steering Committee believes it is imperative that these guidelines are reflect the opinions of all the stakeholders and that selecting future members for the Steering Committee is an open and transparent process.
The Steering Committee expanded from four to six surgical members. They will serve along with three ex-officio members; the CSS Executive Director, CSORN Director of Operations and CSORN National Research Coordinator. Term limits have been set for committee membership as well as the mechanism for ascension to Committee Chair.
If approved, upon retirement for the Steering Committee members will join the Advisory Board, which will provide input and experienced perspectives to the committee. Renewal of Steering Committee membership requires majority approval of the other Committee members and the Advisory Board. In the case of a dispute, the CSS Executive Director and Advisory Board will provide an appropriate resolution. Vacancies in the Steering Committee will be filled by active CSORN investigators. The Steering Committee can request candidates to apply. Acceptance for membership requires unanimous approval by the existing committee members and Advisory Board, which is assigned one vote. Applicants will be considered primarily on the basis of performance and productivity with CSORN. They will be judged on leadership, commitment, mentorship, initiative and strategic thinking.