Dr. Orly Avitzur, MD, MBA

Orly Avitzur, MD, MBA is a neurologist in part-time practice and president-elect of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN). Eleven years ago, she assumed the role of medical adviser at Consumer Reports and for the past three years until mid-2018, she served as its medical director, leading healthcare strategy and representing the organization as health spokesperson in national television in multiple appearances including on the Today Show, the Early Show, Good Morning America and CNN. The two professional roles have given her a unique perspective on the provision of healthcare in the United States.

A medical writer and editor, she launched the “In Practice” column for Neurology Today, the physician publication for neurologists. While at Consumer Reports she created and wrote the Proactive Patient column, which counseled readers on how to succeed in navigating our complex healthcare system, gain the most out of their doctors’ visits, and take charge of the critical financial side of their healthcare. Her work demonstrates her conviction that what is in the best interest of the patient is in the best interest of the medical profession, and ultimately leads to quality care.

Over the past several years, she has co-directed the leadership course for women at the AAN annual meeting. Her professional interests include brain health, women's health, patient/consumer advocacy, health policy and economics, and improving physician-patient communication. She is the current editor-in-chief of Brain & Life, the AAN patient and caregiver magazine, an associate editor for Neurology Today, and the former chair of the AAN medical economics and management committee.