Pam comes to HSS from Main Line Health, where she has been Chief Human Resources Officer since 2021; she held that role previously at Saint Peter's Healthcare System and at Thomas Jefferson University and Hospitals. At Jefferson, she was the first functional leader hired to combine human resources across the university, the hospitals, and the physician practice plan. At Main Line, she built the organization's first comprehensive workforce strategic plan and helped that institution earn 'Great Place To Work' certification for five consecutive years.

HSS is excited to welcome Pam, who's expertise and leadership will help further our commitment to being the best place for all professionals in our field to advance their career and drive the future of musculoskeletal care.

U.S. News evaluated nearly 4,500 hospitals in 14 specialties. Hospital performance was assessed based on various measures, including patient outcomes, level of nursing care, patient-reported experience, and available technology such as computer-assisted orthopedic surgery. The methodology factored in data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, professional organizations, and medical specialists.

“We are proud to once again be recognized as a leader in orthopedics and rheumatology,” said HSS President and CEO Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA. “This distinction reflects the extraordinary expertise, dedication, and collaboration of the entire HSS team. For patients across the New York metropolitan region, it is also a powerful validation that the best orthopedic care in the country is available right here in their community. Through comprehensive musculoskeletal care, we help patients preserve mobility, enhance their quality of life, and extend their healthspan so they can continue doing what they need and love to do.”

“This recognition from U.S. News reflects HSS’s unwavering commitment to advancing musculoskeletal health through clinical excellence, innovation, and patient-centered care,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, surgeon-in-chief and medical director of HSS. “Perhaps the greatest measure of our impact is the trust of patients who travel to HSS from across the country and around the world seeking care have placed in us. This distinction reflects our dedication to achieving exceptional outcomes and our belief that preserving movement is the foundation of longevity and quality of life.”

Patients come to HSS from all 50 states and more than 100 countries, often for both common and complex medical conditions or challenging surgeries requiring highly specialized care. As a global destination for orthopedic and rheumatologic care, HSS brings together world-renowned physicians, advanced treatment approaches, and multidisciplinary teams dedicated to delivering personalized, evidence-based care for patients of all ages and activity levels.

“Our rankings reflect the extraordinary expertise, dedication, and innovation of the physicians, scientists, researchers, and care teams who make HSS a leader in rheumatology,” said Anca D. Askanase, MD, MPH, Chair of the Department of Medicine and Chief of the Division of Rheumatology at HSS. “Through groundbreaking research, advanced therapies, and highly personalized care, we are helping to transform the lives of patients living with complex autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.”

“The pace of discovery in musculoskeletal medicine is accelerating at an unprecedented rate,” said Joel Press, MD, Physiatrist-in-Chief at HSS. “Advances in artificial intelligence, data science, and precision medicine are helping researchers uncover new insights faster and translate those discoveries into more effective, personalized care. With HSS’s singular focus on musculoskeletal health and unmatched depth of clinical expertise, we are uniquely positioned to turn innovation into meaningful improvements in outcomes for patients everywhere.”

As the world’s leading academic medical center specializing in musculoskeletal health, HSS maintains among the lowest hospital readmission rates for orthopedics in the nation, and among the lowest rates for infection and complications. HSS is the worlds most awarded hospital in orthopedics by Newsweek each year since the “World’s Best Specialized Hospitals” survey was introduced in 2020.

In 2025, HSS clinicians and surgeons provided specialized care to more than 258,016 patients with orthopedic or rheumatologic conditions, such as pain or injury to the back, neck, or joints; osteoarthritis; rheumatoid arthritis; lupus; scleroderma; and psoriatic arthritis. HSS performed more than 45,864 orthopedic surgical procedures in 2025.

HSS is the official hospital of and provides team physicians to more than 25 high-performing sports teams and leagues, including the New York Giants, New York Knicks, New York Liberty, Brooklyn Nets, New York Mets, New York Red Bulls, TCS New York City Marathon, National Basketball Players Association, Major League Pickleball, US Youth Soccer, and UFC. It is designated a Medical Center of Excellence by Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

Newsweek, in partnership with Statista, evaluated leading hospitals across seven care specialties: cancer, cardiac, endocrine, gastrointestinal, neurological, orthopedic and pulmonary. Rankings are based on a comprehensive methodology that includes a nationwide survey of medical professionals and hospital managers, patient experience data, patient-reported outcome measures, and specialty-specific safety and quality measures.

In another newly released Newsweek ranking, Lerner Children’s Pavilion at HSS was named among “America’s Best Children’s Hospitals” for pediatric orthopedics.

“When faced with a complex medical challenge, choosing the right hospital and specialist is one of the most important decisions patients and families can make,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, HSS president, CEO and surgeon-in-chief emeritus. “This recognition reflects the extraordinary expertise and dedication of our HSS colleagues, who are committed to delivering the highest standards of evidenced-based, compassionate patient care.”

“This honor underscores the clinical excellence and collaborative approach that define care at HSS,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, surgeon-in-chief at HSS. “Our teams are continually advancing innovation, elevating patient outcomes, and providing highly individualized, expert care to every patient we serve.”

HSS is consistently ranked as a top hospital for the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions by leading ratings organizations. Patients travel to HSS from all 50 states and more than 100 countries, often seeking care for complex cases and specialized surgical procedures. The institution’s ongoing dedication to research, quality improvement, and knowledge-sharing continues to position HSS as a thought leader in musculoskeletal health.

The Tribute Dinner is the premier fundraising event for HSS, recognizing physicians, philanthropists and business leaders who have made a major impact in the field of musculoskeletal medicine. The evening, hosted by Bob Papa, voice of The New York Football Giants, featured entertainment by Sara Bareilles.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest recognition for an outstanding healthcare leader at HSS. “Dr. Hotchkiss is a transformative leader in musculoskeletal medicine who has had a significant impact on the field,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, surgeon-in-chief and medical director at HSS. “Throughout his career, he has helped redefine how we approach some of the most complex conditions in orthopedic care. His expertise, leadership and unwavering commitment to delivering the highest-quality care have not only advanced the standard of treatment but have also made a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of the patients he serves.”

The HSS Tribute Dinner Award recognizes outstanding achievements in business and service to the community. “We are honored to celebrate Marina Kellen French for her longstanding leadership and commitment to HSS,” said HSS President and CEO Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA. “Her years of service on the HSS Board of Trustees and dedication to science and research have left a lasting impact on our institution and the patients we serve. From her transformative gift to the Kellen Tower, a landmark expansion of HSS’s Upper East Side campus, to the Kellen Scholars program she established, which has supported the research and discovery of dozens of the brightest minds in orthopedic medicine—her contributions have been instrumental in advancing our field.”

This year’s Tribute Dinner, attended by over 700 guests and raised more than $5 million for patient care, research and medical education.

HONOREES

Marina Kellen French

A philanthropist and avid supporter of the arts and sciences, both in the United States and abroad, Marina Kellen French is Vice President of the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Foundation and President of the Marina Kellen French Foundation. A member of the HSS Board of Trustees and Board of Advisors for over 15 years, she has made an indelible mark on the organization helping to shape the careers of young investigators, blaze new paths for scientific inquiry, and transform how HSS cares for those affected by musculoskeletal conditions.

Mrs. French has long been a champion of science and research at HSS, culminating her lead gift to Kellen Tower, which opened earlier this spring and marks a major milestone in the transformation of HSS’s Upper East Side campus. In addition, she has created the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Clinician-Scientist Program, the Marina Kellen Chair in Complex Joint Reconstruction, the Marina Kellen French Foundation Directorship in Trauma, and a commitment to new research that will enable more patients to achieve successful outcomes from knee replacement surgery.

Mrs. French is a trustee of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Carnegie Hall, the American Academy in Berlin, Friends of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, and World Monuments Fund. She is a member of the Trustees’ Council of the National Gallery of Art, a managing director of the Metropolitan Opera, and a life trustee of the Morgan Library & Museum and WNET Channel 13. 

A recipient of numerous awards and honors, in November 2021 Mrs. French was named a Living Landmark by the New York Landmarks Conservancy for her outstanding contribu­tions to the city. She has received honors from the French government, including the Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur award in 2022, and the Commandeur de L’ordre des Arts et Lettres, the highest distinction in the arts, in 2024. She has also received the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Merit (First Class) of the Federal Republic of Germany (2014) for her exceptional work in German-American relations. Mrs. French graduated from the Brearley School in New York City and the University of Lausanne, Switzerland, and attended the New York School of Interior Design.

Robert N. Hotchkiss, MD

Dr. Robert N. Hotchkiss served as the inaugural Joel and Anne Bick Ehrenkranz Chair in Hand and Upper Extremity Research and Director of Clinical Research at HSS, where he has devoted much of his professional career to advancing orthopedic surgery, clinical investigation, and innovation in musculoskeletal care. He also serves as Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College and previously led the Hand and Upper Extremity Service at HSS for more than a decade.

Dr. Hotchkiss received his undergraduate education at the University of Colorado Boulder, majoring in both Chemistry and Slavic Languages and Literature, before earning his MD from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where he also completed his surgical and orthopedic training.

Internationally recognized for his pioneering work in hand, elbow, and upper-extremity reconstruction, Dr. Hotchkiss has helped shape modern approaches to complex elbow trauma, instability, stiffness, and reconstructive surgery. Over a distinguished career spanning more than four decades, he has made contributions that extend beyond the operating room into biomechanics, implant design, translational research, and the emerging use of machine learning and advanced imaging technologies in medicine. He is co-founder and advisor to Imagen Technologies and holds multiple patents in orthopedic devices and drug delivery systems.

A prolific author, educator, and mentor, Dr. Hotchkiss has lectured throughout the United States and internationally, served as Associate Editor of multiple editions of Operative Hand Surgery, and trained generations of surgeons who now lead programs around the world.

Dr. Hotchkiss and his wife, Stephanie, have two grown sons, Andrew and Thomas, who are involved in healthcare technologies and early-stage biotechnology investments.

Kellen Tower is adjacent to the main hospital at 535 East 70th Street and connected via a sky bridge. The building also connects to the HSS Pavilion to the west, further integrating inpatient, outpatient, and recovery services across the campus. The opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 30.

“Demand for complex musculoskeletal care continues to grow, and many of the patients who come to HSS require expertise and resources that are not widely available elsewhere,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, President and CEO at HSS. “Kellen Tower allows us to expand access to that specialized care while maintaining the focused environment and standards of excellence that define HSS.”

Expanding Access to World-Leading Orthopedic Care

Recognized globally for excellence in musculoskeletal care, HSS is ranked the No. 1 hospital in orthopedics nationwide by U.S. News & World Report—a distinction it has held for 16 consecutive years. Patients travel from across the country and around the world to receive highly specialized surgical and nonsurgical care at HSS.

Kellen Tower will provide a specialized environment for joint replacement and spine surgery patients, including those with the most complex conditions. In addition to providing more space for physician offices and exam rooms, the new facility offers on-site imaging services and increases the number of single-bed rooms for patients. Three floors of private rooms are designed to enhance their comfort and care.

“The thoughtful design of Kellen Tower supports our commitment to delivering specialized care in a modern and highly efficient setting dedicated to orthopedic excellence and the needs of our patients,” said Thomas P. Sculco, MD, HSS Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus and Director of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Complex Joint Reconstruction Center.

“The enhanced inpatient spaces and the renovation of recovery floors in the main hospital will allow HSS to improve how existing beds are used and increase the proportion of private patient rooms across the main campus, “he added. “This has been an institutional priority to optimize the healing environment for our patients.”

As part of the Kellen Tower project, HSS is also fulfilling a longstanding commitment to the local community by funding major improvements to the East River Esplanade from 72nd to 78th Streets. The work aligns with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation’s master plan for the waterfront walkway and builds on HSS’s prior $1.8 million investment to renovate the Esplanade between 70th and 72nd Streets in 2018.

Philanthropy Fuels Campus Transformation

The construction of Kellen Tower was made possible through the generosity of HSS donors, with early philanthropic contributions exceeding $195 million, including a lead gift of $35 million from the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Foundation, made at the recommendation of the Foundation Vice President and HSS Trustee Marina Kellen French. The gift honors the Kellens’ legacy and reflects the Foundation’s longstanding support of HSS.

“Our support for HSS is based on its unwavering commitment to improving musculoskeletal care on a global scale not only through unmatched patient care, but with groundbreaking research and the medical education of future leaders in the field,” said Marina Kellen French. “The new tower is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about allowing HSS to care for more people, helping patients with the most complex needs for generations to come.”

“Kellen Tower represents an important evolution of the HSS campus,” said Jonathan Tisch, HSS Trustee and member of the HSS Kellen Tower Task Force. “It brings together the spaces, technology, and clinical resources needed to support the way care is delivered. It’s a meaningful step forward for patients and for everyone who works at HSS, strengthening our ability to deliver exceptional care every day.” The Special Amenities Inpatient floor, to be known as Tisch 5 in recognition of the generosity of Lizzie and Jonathan Tisch, will further elevate the patient experience within the new facility.

“We welcome Dr. Askanase to HSS and we are confident that her leadership and vision will help us to advance excellence in clinical care, research, education, and community service through the Department of Medicine and Division of Rheumatology,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, president and CEO and Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus at HSS. “HSS is also deeply grateful for Dr. Bridges, a highly respected physician-scientist whose leadership and legacy has profoundly advanced patient care and scientific discovery at HSS.” 

Dr. Askanase was selected following a rigorous, nationwide search led by an external executive search firm, which attracted a highly competitive pool of accomplished candidates from leading academic medical centers. She brings more than two decades of leadership in academic rheumatology. From 1999 to 2013, Dr. Askanase practiced at NYU Langone Health and the Hospital for Joint Diseases, where she developed a strong appreciation for the close integration of orthopedics and rheumatology in caring for patients with complex musculoskeletal disease. Since 2014, she has served on the faculty of Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where she is a Professor of Medicine and founded and directs the Columbia Lupus Center. 
“Dr. Askanase is a distinguished and highly respected clinician-scientist who has made significant contributions to the fields of rheumatology and lupus. She approaches complex cases with extraordinary dedication and compassion and is a powerful advocate for populations disproportionately affected by rheumatic diseases,” said Douglas E. Padget, MD, Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director at HSS. “Her leadership will be an invaluable addition to our community. Her appointment underscores HSS’s commitment to the advancement of patient care practices by recruiting outstanding physician leaders in our clinical specialties.” 

A globally recognized clinician-scientist, Dr. Askanase has led or participated in more than 150 clinical investigations and has played a significant role in shaping national and international standards for rheumatologic care through leadership positions with the American College of Rheumatology, the Lupus Foundation of America, the Lupus Research Alliance, and the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics network. She is a clinician, diagnostician, and researcher specializing in complex Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), more commonly known as lupus. Her research in SLE encompasses epidemiology, outcomes research, and therapeutic clinical trials. Ongoing government-funded projects include the use of optical imaging to evaluate subclinical arthritis, the development of virtual lupus disease activity measures, and lupus education outreach to disparate populations. Dr. Askanase has been at the vanguard of cell therapy research and treatments for SLE and other autoimmune diseases; and she is the Global PI of several novel cell therapy programs and an Investigator Initiated Study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of CAR-NKs. Her work in advancing patient-centered care models, clinical trials in autoimmune disease, and cell therapy initiatives aligns closely with HSS’s commitment to innovation and excellence across the continuum of musculoskeletal care. 

In her role at HSS, Dr. Askanase will provide strategic leadership in Rheumatology while overseeing the Department of Medicine, with a focus on strengthening collaboration across specialties, advancing clinical and translational research, and supporting excellence in patient care, education, and mentorship. 

“I feel privileged to have the opportunity to lead the renowned HSS Division of Rheumatology and Department of Medicine as we continue to advance and transform the science and practice of rheumatology and its related specialties,” said Dr. Askanase. “This is a pivotal moment for our field, with rapid progress in diagnostics, therapeutics, and personalized approaches to care. At HSS, we are uniquely positioned to translate these innovations into meaningful improvements in patients’ lives. Working alongside our esteemed colleagues in Orthopedics, we have an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of musculoskeletal health worldwide—through clinical excellence, groundbreaking research, and a shared commitment to delivering the highest quality of care.” 
 

As HSS continues to expand its clinical footprint and influence, strengthening enterprise Nursing and clinical leadership remains a strategic priority to ensure consistent quality, patient safety, and operational excellence across the system.

“We are confident that under Ann Marie’s leadership, HSS will continue to advance Magnet-level excellence, improve clinical quality and patient-centered outcomes, and drive growth with discipline and distinction,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, president and CEO, and Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus, at HSS. “Her appointment to this new role reflects our commitment to fostering visionary leadership that strengthens our nursing practice and elevates the patient experience.”

In this role, Dr. McDonald will provide strategic leadership for Nursing across all sites and affiliates, with accountability for nursing quality, patient safety, workforce engagement, and the consistent application of HSS standards of care. In addition, she will oversee key clinical support services, including Pharmacy, Respiratory Therapy, and Laboratory Services, further strengthening system integration, performance management, and patient experience. Since September of 2025, Dr. McDonald has served as Interim CNE.

“Nursing is the foundation of our success, shaping every aspect of the patient experience and redefining excellence in musculoskeletal care,” said Mary E. Cassai, MPA, RN, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “Our nurses are innovators, advocates, and leaders who set the standard for quality, compassion, and collaboration across the enterprise—ensuring every patient receives care that is exceptional, transformative, and centered on their needs.”

Dr. McDonald is a Registered Nurse with more than 20 years of experience across clinical operations, quality, performance improvement, and regulatory compliance. She has deep expertise in federal quality programs and accreditation and represents HSS on national advisory groups supporting CMS and The Joint Commission. A registered nurse, she holds her master’s degree and doctorate from Teachers College, Columbia University, where she also served as adjunct faculty. She is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the New York Academy of Medicine. “HSS is setting the standard for musculoskeletal health, and I am excited to help lead this next chapter of growth and innovation,” said Dr. McDonald. “Together, we will empower our nursing teams, drive advancements in care delivery, and shape the future of health with purpose and impact.”

At HSS the Chief Nursing Executive leads a team of more than 1,500 specialized nurses across the continuum of care at locations in New York, Connecticut, New Jersey and Florida, overseeing support and advocacy for nursing quality, patient safety, nurse engagement, physician collaboration, and patient satisfaction. HSS is a recipient of the Press Ganey Pinnacle of Excellence Award®, which is based on patient surveys that include measures such as “Likelihood to Recommend,” “Overall Rating,” and “Teamwork.”

“We are proud of the strides HSS has made in nursing excellence and patient care, and we embrace both the responsibility and the opportunity to continue raising the bar,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, surgeon-in-chief and medical director at HSS. “Ann Marie exemplifies our core values at the highest level, helping us fulfill our purpose of helping every person live the life they love through the power of movement.”

Dr. McDonald’s new role at HSS is effective immediately.

The alliance brings together Jupiter Medical Center, the region’s leading independent medical center, and HSS, ranked No. 1 in orthopedics by U.S. News & World Report for 16 straight years. Together, they will offer patients comprehensive orthopedic care—from diagnosis and surgery to rehabilitation—delivered with the highest standards of quality, safety and patient experience.

“Jupiter Medical Center and HSS share a commitment to excellence in patient care,” said Amit Rastogi, MD, MHCM, President and CEO of Jupiter Medical Center. “This relationship ensures that people in our community have direct access to the same orthopedic expertise trusted by patients of all kinds worldwide, including professional athletes.”

Raising the Bar for Orthopedic Care

Patients will benefit from a full spectrum of expertise in joint replacement, sports medicine, spine surgery, and rehabilitation. HSS physicians will perform surgeries at Jupiter Medical Center’s new Johnny and Terry Gray Surgical Institute. The hospital is also nearing completion of a new five-story Patient Care Tower, featuring dedicated facilities for state-of-the-art orthopedic care and rehabilitation. 

“This collaboration reflects a unique depth of shared responsibility and opportunity to increase access to the world’s highest quality orthopedic care in Palm Beach County,” said HSS President and CEO and Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA. For nearly half a century, Jupiter Medical Center has earned the trust of the community one patient at a time; HSS brings more than 163 years of unparalleled specialization in advancing care that is foundational to quality of life.  Jupiter Medical Center’s continued investment in innovation and technology aligns seamlessly with our mission to provide the best orthopedic care available anywhere.”

Recognition and Reputation

Jupiter Medical Center has recently been named one of Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals and one of Money’s Best Orthopedic Hospitals in the United States. It has also been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as “High Performing” in hip fracture, hip replacement, and knee replacement, and holds multiple Blue Distinction Center+ and Joint Commission certifications.

HSS, founded in 1863, is the world’s leading academic medical center focused solely on musculoskeletal health. Patients come for HSS care from all 50 States and more than 100 countries, including athletes from more than half of all teams in the MLB, NBA, NFL and NFL teams.  It is the Official Hospital of 15 professional sports teams worldwide, and the only Official Hospital of an entire sports league: UFC. Its research and education institutes drive new treatments and evidence-based practices that improve outcomes for patients everywhere.

A New Destination for Orthopedic Excellence

“This partnership will help make Jupiter Medical Center the premier destination for musculoskeletal care in the region,” said Ryan W. Simovitch, MD, an HSS sports medicine surgeon based in Florida. “Patients will have access to advanced care close to home, supported by the resources of a global leader.”

For information about Jupiter Medical Center, visit jupitermed.com or call 561-263-2234. For more information about HSS, visit hss.edu.

About Jupiter Medical Center
Jupiter Medical Center is rated No. 1 in the region for quality, safety, and patient experience. Its award-winning physicians provide comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care, including specialty centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics, neurosciences, and women’s and children’s services. Learn more at jupitermed.com.

For an astounding sixth time, Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) has earned the nation’s top honor for nursing excellence from the Magnet Recognition Program^® of the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association.

HSS is the first hospital in New York State to receive Magnet status six times, building upon an already celebrated legacy: It was also the first hospital in Manhattan to earn the coveted status in 2002. Achieving five or more Magnet designations is extremely rare; less than one-half of one percent of Hospitals naionwide have at least six.

“Achieving Magnet status once again underscores our dedication to nursing excellence at HSS,” said Mary Cassai, MPA, RN, HSS Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer. “Earning this recognition is a testament to the skill, compassion and dedication our nurses bring to every patient interaction as well as the exceptional care HSS nurses provide.”

Hospitals recognized with Magnet status exemplify excellence in four areas: nursing philosophy and practice, commitment to national standards for patient care, leadership prowess and cultural sensitivity. Organizations must reapply for designation every four years, a rigorous process that includes a thorough evaluation of nursing services, clinical outcomes and patient care, as well as measurement against strategic goals.

“The sixth Magnet designation reaffirms what we at HSS already know: that HSS nurses deliver unparalleled care,” said Ann Marie McDonald, EdD, RN, FACHE, CPHQ, Interim Chief Nursing Executive at HSS. “Our dedication to our mission and core values inspires all of us each day. This is confirmation that the programs we have developed and put into place to ensure the very best patient care are not only successful but also industry standard.”

In addition to promoting nursing excellence and quality patient care, the Magnet culture empowers nurses and interprofessional teams through shared governance, professional development, evidence-based practice, and community outreach. This supportive environment enhances staff engagement, satisfaction, and retention, enabling caregivers to deliver exceptional, patient-centered care.

“We are incredibly proud of our nursing staff for achieving Magnet designation once again,” said HSS President, CEO and Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus Bryan Kelly, MD, MBA. “It reaffirms the central role our nursing teams play at HSS as leaders, innovators, and collaborators in delivering outstanding musculoskeletal care.”

“Our nurses not only deliver the highest quality of patient care but also serve as a resource in the community,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, HSS surgeon-in-chief and medical director. “This tremendous honor reflects their tireless efforts to make each patient feel safe, comfortable, and valued while they are with us, and just as importantly, to foster a culture of compassion and support across HSS.”

“Today, we announce that we have reached an agreement with the nation’s highest-ranked orthopedic center. This important step gives city workers peace of mind, knowing that this leading national Center of Excellence will continue to be available to them. It also demonstrates to the City and its unions that HSS is an important partner in helping the City achieve its goal of preserving and protecting health care coverage for City workers. Our collaboration with HSS is rooted in our mutual commitment to increasing access to affordable, high-quality care for the working families of New York who are vital to our city," said Michael Costa, EmblemHealth's SVP of Provider Network and Population Health.

"HSS has been honored to provide New Yorkers with specialized orthopedic care for more than 162 years,” said HSS President, CEO, and Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus Bryan Kelly, MD, MBA. “We are delighted to continue collaborating with EmblemHealth to further increase access to the world's highest quality care for the New York City employees who keep the world's greatest city moving."

The New York City Employees (NYCE) PPO Plan was negotiated by the City of New York and the Municipal Labor Committee. The plan offers city workers a modernized program, access to a much larger network of healthcare providers, care team support for people with chronic disease, and the continuity of customer service from a team well known to city workers.

About EmblemHealth 

EmblemHealth is one of the nation’s largest not-for-profit health insurers, serving members across New York’s diverse communities with a full range of commercial and government-sponsored health plans for employers, individuals, and families. With a commitment to value-based care, EmblemHealth partners with top hospitals and doctors, including its AdvantageCare Physicians, to deliver quality, affordable, convenient care. At over a dozen EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care locations, members and non-members can receive community-based health and wellness guidance and resources. For more information, visit emblemhealth.com. 

“The HSS Digital Twin Platform is poised to impact all aspects of orthopedic care, fundamentally transforming how clinicians diagnose, treat and rehabilitate musculoskeletal injuries,” said Andrew D. Pearle, MD, Chief Emeritus of Sports Medicine and Program Director of the Digital Twin project. “Thanks to this transformational gift, HSS stands at the threshold of a new paradigm in personalized orthopedic care.”

“Longtime supporters of HSS, the Steers have been impressed by the continual efforts and commitment of HSS physicians and scientists to advance the standard of care in orthopedics,” said HSS President and CEO Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA. “Their incredible gift represents a landmark moment for HSS, transforming a bold idea into a reality and improving patient care through innovation.”

The development and clinical expansion of the HSS Digital Twin Platform in Orthopedics is a four-year project that brings together a multidisciplinary team of HSS surgeons, radiologists, biomechanical engineers and artificial intelligence and data specialists. The initial focus is on the knee, where surgeons will use the tool to create virtual 3D replicas from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and simulate how the joint moves and responds to different surgical options. The tool’s web-based interface will make it easy for surgeons to implement clinically and for patients to understand various scenarios and outcomes.

The HSS Digital Twin Platform is based on more than a decade of work by HSS orthopedic surgeons and biomechanical engineers who recently evolved their computational model of the knee to incorporate artificial intelligence and advanced image processing. In one of its first clinical applications, HSS knee surgeons have been using the tool to determine whether patients who require anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) revision surgery may benefit from an additional procedure to reshape the top of the shin bone, called a slope reduction osteotomy. The HSS Digital Twin Platform allows them to model this complex procedure virtually, one degree at a time, to predict how forces and knee motion will change. Dr. Pearle, along with HSS surgeons Drs. Danyal H. Nawabi, Mark J. Amirtharaj, and Thomas L. Wickiewicz, recently published a milestone paper in the American Journal of Sports Medicine, that demonstrated how the digital twin technology can help surgeons determine whether a slope reduction osteotomy is necessary and, if so, the precise surgical angle for reducing the risk of ACL re-injury.¹ These early applications showcase the platform’s potential to guide precise surgical decisions while laying the foundation for broader use across other joints and procedures.

The potential for the HSS Digital Twin Platform to transform surgical planning and personalized care and provide long-term support for continual innovation inspired the Steers’ decision to make this extraordinary gift to HSS. An endowed chair—the Lauren and Robert Steers Chair in Orthopedic Research and Innovation—also funded by the gift, will be held by Dr. Pearle and will provide long-term support to advance future discoveries in the field.

“We look forward to scaling up the HSS Digital Twin Platform to optimize orthopedic care with unprecedented precision across HSS,” Dr. Pearle said. “After scaling up knee applications, we plan to create digital twins for hip and shoulder. Ultimately, we envision a future where all HSS patients will have online access to a digital twin care companion that aggregates comprehensive musculoskeletal data with the potential to replace the traditional medical record.”

Reference

¹ Sagittal Slope-Reducing High Tibial Osteotomy Decreases Anterior Cruciate Ligament Force and Coupled Internal Tibial Rotation Under Pivoting Loads: A Computational Modeling Study. 

Authors: Mark J. Amirtharaj, MD, Reza Pourmodheji, PhD, Mitchell G.A. Wheatley, PhD,

Julien Leluc, MD, Andrew E. Pechstein, PhD, Jacob M. Hirth, BS, Michael K. Parides, PhD,

Thomas L. Wickiewicz, MD, Andrew D. Pearle, MD, Matthieu Ollivier, MD, PhD,

Carl W. Imhauser, PhD, Danyal H. Nawabi, MD.

About HSS

HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 16th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2025-2026), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2024-2025). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a fifth consecutive year (2025). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection and complication rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. In addition, more than 200 HSS clinical investigators are working to improve patient outcomes through better ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat orthopedic, rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 165 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

The platform represents a significant step forward in expanding patient access to high-quality, accessible orthopedic and spine care nationwide, while addressing rising demand for advanced outpatient solutions. Legent CEO Jordan Fowler will lead the new platform, which combines Legent’s proven operating infrastructure and experienced management team, HSS’s depth of clinical knowledge and community of more than 1,750 alumni surgeons, and General Atlantic’s expertise in building and scaling physician-aligned healthcare platforms.

Many procedures that once required hospital stays can now be performed safely and efficiently in ASCs. The new independent platform aims to expand patient access to advanced orthopedic and spine care closer to home, delivering lower-cost care with improved outcomes in a more comfortable environment. The platform is purpose-built to create lasting partnerships with surgeons and health systems, providing physicians with opportunities for ownership and alignment through meaningful equity participation, clinical autonomy, and special access to HSS’s clinical protocols and advisory services. This will enable physicians and health systems to participate in the site-of-care shift and benefit from ASC-level efficiencies and economics. Over time, HSS and General Atlantic intend to expand the platform nationally through acquisitions, new partnerships, and de novo facilities.

“As the world’s leading academic medical center specializing in musculoskeletal health since 1863, HSS has a special responsibility to deliver the highest-quality care, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life,” said Bryan Kelly, MD, MBA, President, CEO, and Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus at HSS. “Through this collaboration, we will extend HSS’s clinical expertise and patient-first standards to markets where demand for orthopedic and spine care outpaces supply, and where quality care is limited outside the hospital setting.”

“This platform brings together HSS’s clinical knowledge and General Atlantic’s company-building expertise to create community-based platforms that will expand patient access to premier orthopedic and spine care,” said Robbert Vorhoff, Managing Director and Global Head of Healthcare at General Atlantic. “We are excited to work alongside HSS and Legent to support physicians, deliver quality care, and improve patient outcomes and satisfaction across the country.”

Jordan Fowler, CEO and Chairman of Legent, commented, “Legent was founded on the belief that ambulatory surgery centers can deliver a superior patient and physician experience while lowering costs for everyone involved. We look forward to continuing to provide the highest quality of care and bringing our mission to more patients as part of this pioneering new platform.”

James Frank, Head of Strat Cap at BTG Pactual Global Alternatives, said, “We are proud of the value created through our partnership with the Legent management team. We wish General Atlantic, HSS, and the management team continued success as they embark on this next phase.”

Goodwin Procter LLP and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP served as legal advisors to HSS and General Atlantic. Ducera Partners LLC served as financial advisor, and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP and McDermott Will & Schulte LLP served as legal advisors to Legent and Strat Cap.

The new Spine Center joins two additional facilities HSS recently opened to expand its footprint in Northern New Jersey: HSS Paramus – Midland Ave, a full-service outpatient center; and the HSS Northern NJ Surgery Center in Mahwah, which marks the first-ever HSS surgery center dedicated to ambulatory procedures in the state. Together, these facilities provide Bergen County residents and beyond with greater access to world-class surgical and non-surgical care across a broad range of specialties.

“HSS has long set the standard for excellence and innovation in spinal care,” said HSS President and CEO and Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus, Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA. “Together with the HSS Northern NJ Surgery Center and HSS Paramus – Midland Avenue, the Spine Center reflects our commitment to making high-quality care accessible to local communities as well as the growing need for spine services in New Jersey.”

A key feature of the center is its integrated approach to spinal health. A multidisciplinary team of experts—including specialists in spine surgery, pain management, neurology, physiatry, and radiology—work together to deliver consistent, first-rate care.  

“Each of our physicians specializes in treating people with conditions and injuries affecting the spine,” said Anil S. Ranawat, MD, a sports medicine surgeon and medical director of the HSS Spine Center in Paramus. “This high degree of expertise and collaboration ensure that each patient receives an individualized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs, supporting optimal outcomes and continuity of care.”

The spine center, located at 140 E. Ridgewood Avenue, Suite 175S, spans 14,000 square feet and includes 11 exam rooms.

“The HSS Spine Center provides specialized care for all types of conditions and injuries affecting the back and neck, from the most common problems to the highly complex, including scoliosis,” said Andrew A. Sama, MD, a spine surgeon and co-chief of HSS Spine. “Our team includes physicians with expertise in the latest nonsurgical approaches, as well as skilled spine surgeons with advanced training and special expertise.”

At HSS, conservative treatment is always the first line of care, while surgery is the last resort, said Sheeraz Qureshi, MD, MBA, a spine surgeon and co-chief of HSS Spine. “A variety of therapies are available to address pain, prevent further damage and help patients regain mobility without the need for surgery,” he explained. “However, if it is needed, HSS spine surgeons are at the forefront of robotic-assisted and minimally invasive procedures that are beneficial for patients.”

Surgeries are performed at the HSS Northern NJ Surgery Center in Mahwah or at the main hospital in Manhattan.

For more information about the HSS Spine Center, please visit: www.hss.edu/njspine

U.S. News evaluated nearly 4,500 hospitals in 15 specialties. Hospital performance was assessed based on various measures, including patient outcomes, level of nursing care, patient-reported experience, and available technology such as computer-assisted orthopedic surgery. The methodology factored in data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the American Hospital Association, professional organizations, and medical specialists.

“We are once again honored to be recognized as a leader in our specialties of orthopedics and rheumatology,” said HSS President and CEO Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA. “This reflects the skill and dedication of every member of the HSS team, who work together to help people get back to what they need and love to do better than any other place in the world.”

“The U.S. News rankings underscore HSS’s continued leadership and commitment to musculoskeletal health, reflecting 162 years of clinical excellence, innovation, and patient-centered care,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, surgeon-in-chief and medical director of HSS. “Our consistent recognition as a top hospital highlights our steadfast dedication to maintaining the highest standards of evidence-based care.”

Patients come to HSS from all 50 states and more than 100 countries, often for complex medical conditions or challenging surgeries requiring highly specialized care.

“When faced with a challenging rheumatologic disease, every patient wants a rheumatologist they can trust,” said S. Louis Bridges, Jr., MD, PhD, physician-in-chief and chief of the Division of Rheumatology at HSS. “The high rating of HSS Rheumatology demonstrates clinical excellence made possible by our strong dedication to best practices and personalized care, and by our commitment to advancing musculoskeletal medicine through research, education, and innovation.”

As the world’s leading academic medical center specializing in musculoskeletal health, HSS maintains among the lowest hospital readmission rates for orthopedics in the nation, and among the lowest rates for infection and complications. HSS has been named No. 1 in the world for orthopedics by Newsweek each year since the “World’s Best Specialized Hospitals” survey was introduced in 2020.

HSS is one of only three US hospitals ranked No. 1 both nationally and globally in any specialty.

In 2024, HSS clinicians and surgeons provided specialized care to more than 248,917 patients with orthopedic or rheumatologic conditions, such as pain or injury to the back, neck, or joints; osteoarthritis; rheumatoid arthritis; lupus; scleroderma; and psoriatic arthritis. HSS performed more than 43,000 orthopedic surgical procedures in 2024.

HSS is the official hospital of and provides team physicians to more than 25 high-performing sports teams and leagues, including the New York Giants, New York Knicks, New York Liberty, Brooklyn Nets, New York Mets, New York Red Bulls, TCS New York City Marathon, National Basketball Players Association, Major League Pickleball, US Youth Soccer, and UFC. It is designated a Medical Center of Excellence by Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

* Copyright © 2025 U.S. News & World Report, L.P. Data reprinted with permission from U.S. News.

The Tribute Dinner is HSS’s premier fundraising event recognizing physicians, philanthropists and business leaders who have made a major impact in the field of musculoskeletal medicine. The evening, hosted by WABC-TV Eyewitness News anchor Sade Baderinwa, featured entertainment by Emmy Award-winning comedian Jim Gaffigan and a musical performance by The Castellows.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest recognition for an outstanding healthcare leader at HSS. “Both Dr. Albert and Dr. Press have made significant contributions to the advancement of musculoskeletal medicine and exemplify the finest qualities found in physicians,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, surgeon-in-chief and medical director at HSS. “Their knowledge and skill in their respective fields and commitment to providing the highest quality of care make them the kind of doctors you would want for your own family.”

The HSS Tribute Dinner Award recognizes outstanding achievements in business and service to the community. “We celebrate Ken Wilson not only for his illustrious career but also for his many years of leadership and support at HSS,” said HSS President and CEO Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA. “We are privileged to recognize him for his 24 years of service on the HSS Board of Trustees, including five years as Board Chairman. During his tenure, his strong leadership and vision for the future led to unprecedented growth, with an expansion of HSS services not only in New York but also in Connecticut, New Jersey and Florida.”

This year’s Tribute Dinner, attended by over 800 guests and raised more than $6.5 million for patient care, research and medical education.

HONOREES

Kendrick R. Wilson, III

Mr. Wilson is Chairman Emeritus of the HSS Board of Trustees, having served in that role from 2013 to 2018. During his tenure, he oversaw a major expansion of HSS services and locations. In total, he served on the Board from 1998 to 2022, at which time he became a Life Trustee.

Mr. Wilson is best known for his career in the banking industry, where he gained the respect of his peers for his strategic insight and leadership. During his long career on Wall Street, he played a role in some of the most significant transactions in the financial services industry. At the height of the financial crisis of 2008, President George W. Bush asked him to work as an adviser to then Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson to help resolve the financial crisis.

Mr. Wilson retired as Vice Chairman of BlackRock, Inc. in the first quarter of 2018 and was a member of its Global Executive Committee. He also served as Chairman of BlackRock's Human Capital Committee and BlackRock Alternative Investors. Before going to Washington in the summer of 2008, he was Vice Chairman, Investment Banking of Goldman Sachs & Co. and a member of Goldman's Executive Office. He also served as Chairman of Goldman's Financial Institutions Group.

He has served on the boards of numerous public and private corporations in the United States and overseas. In addition to HSS, he is a Trustee Emeritus of the Montana Land Reliance and Middlebury College. Mr. Wilson also served as a member of the Board of Governors of the Montana State University Foundation.

Todd J. Albert, MD

Over the years, Dr. Albert has earned a reputation as a highly skilled and greatly respected spine surgeon nationally and internationally. He is Surgeon-in-chief Emeritus and Richard Rogers Professor to Advance Spine Care at HSS, as well as a professor of orthopaedic surgery at Weill Cornell Medical School. His practice specializes in the treatment of cervical spine disorders as well as degenerative and traumatic conditions of the spine.

Dr. Albert is a member of multiple national and international medical societies. He is president- elect of the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons and served as president of the Cervical Spine Research Society and Scoliosis Research Society.

Dr. Albert has written more than 90 book chapters, edited 14 books and published more than 450 peer-reviewed articles. He has received outstanding paper awards from the North American Spine Society, the International Society for the Study of the Lumbar Spine and the Cervical Spine Research Society. He serves on the editorial boards for several academic journals. He has been recognized with the John J. Gartland Award for Resident Education and the Jean McDaniel mentorship award at HSS. He was also awarded the Nicolas Andry Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons.

Joel M. Press, MD

Dr. Press is Physiatrist-in-Chief and the Joel and Anne Ehrenkranz Chair in Physiatry

at HSS and a professor of rehabilitation medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College. He has published and edited multiple articles and textbooks, chaired numerous courses and lectures extensively nationally and internationally on the rehabilitation of spine and sports-related injuries.

Prior to joining HSS, Dr. Press was an attending physician at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago from 1988 to 2016. In 1989, he founded and directed the Spine and Sports Rehabilitation Centers at the Institute. He was a professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation and the Reva and David Logan Distinguished Chair of Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. He served as Vice President of External Relations and the Executive Medical Director for Outpatient Physician Services at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago.

He has been an oral board examiner and written board examination-item writer for the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. He is a past president of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, the North American Spine Society and the Physiatric Association of Spine, Sports and Occupational Rehabilitation.

Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), the world’s leading academic medical center specialized in musculoskeletal health, has expanded access for people in Northern New Jersey with the opening of two new facilities: HSS Paramus – Midland Ave, a full-service outpatient center (OPC) in Paramus; and the HSS Northern NJ Surgery Center in Mahwah, which marks the first-ever HSS surgery center dedicated to ambulatory procedures in the state. The facilities offer Bergen County residents greater access to world-class surgical and non-surgical care across a broad range of specialties.

“HSS has led the fields of orthopedics and rheumatology in quality and patient experience for 161 years,” said HSS President and CEO Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA. “The HSS Northern NJ Surgery Center in Mahwah and HSS Paramus – Midland Ave are more than just facilities—they're purpose-built extensions of the main hospital, offering the same sophisticated, highly specialized care but in a more accessible location. They reflect our commitment to serving communities by expanding care through innovation and strategic growth across the tri-state region and beyond.”

The HSS Northern NJ Surgery Center is a 7,700-square-foot facility conveniently located at 400 Franklin Turnpike, just 10 miles away from HSS Paramus – Midland Ave. The center features three operating rooms, eight pre- and post-surgical bays and on-site central sterile processing.

The Mahwah surgery center will focus on specialized care for conditions and injuries of the hip and knee, spine, foot and ankle, hand and wrist, as well as sports medicine surgery. Michael P. Ast, MD, chief of the Knee Service, Chief Medical Innovation Officer and Director of Ambulatory Surgery Center Strategy at HSS, serves as the Medical Director.

“With the advanced technologies we’ve implemented at our ambulatory surgery center, we’re now able to safely perform a wider range of complex procedures that were once only possible in a hospital setting,” said Dr. Ast. “By expanding access in New Jersey, more patients can receive timely outpatient procedures, reducing wait times, hospital burdens, and the need to travel into New York City. At the same time, our new center is fully integrated with our main hospital, ensuring patients benefit from the same world-class diagnosis and treatment options.”

HSS Paramus – Midland Ave, located at 15 E. Midland Ave, Suite 1A, features 23 exam rooms and highly specialized physicians and staff to offer care for conditions and injuries of the foot and ankle, hand and upper extremities, hip and knee, and spine; endocrinology/metabolic bone diseases; pediatric orthopedics; physiatry; rheumatology; and sports medicine.

The nearly 31,000-square-foot facility is double the size of the existing OPC, HSS Paramus – Ridgewood Ave, allowing for an expansion of services and a state-of-the-art imaging suite including MRI, x-ray, and EOS low-dose radiation imaging. A special procedures unit for injection therapy and other advanced interventions is also available at this site. Additionally, HSS Orthopedics Now, providing quicker access to orthopedic care for sudden injuries and pain for patients 12 years and older, is available.

“I am deeply honored to lead HSS Paramus into its next chapter,” said Anil S. Ranawat, MD, sports medicine surgeon at HSS and medical director of HSS Paramus – Midland Ave. “This new facility is an exciting milestone in our unending pursuit to make comprehensive care even more accessible, enabling patients to complete their entire care journey—including testing, surgery, and more—right here in New Jersey.”

The new sites join the existing HSS location in Paramus on East Ridgewood Avenue. For more information about HSS Paramus-Midland Ave and HSS Northern NJ Surgery Center, visit www.hss.edu/locations.

In this newly created role, Dr. Bowen will serve as a strategic partner to HSS President & CEO, Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, Chief Strategy, Growth and Transformation Officer Justin Oppenheimer, and the HSS Sports Medicine Institute. He will focus on developing novel programs and clinical platforms and identifying and advancing strategic opportunities that enhance patient care, expand partnerships, and strengthen the institution’s position as the global leader in musculoskeletal health.

Dr. Bowen graduated with multiple honors from Cornell University Medical College and completed his orthopedic surgery residency and a Sports Medicine fellowship at HSS. He rejoins HSS from Endeavor Health in Chicago where he has been Chief of Sports Medicine since 2012. Dr. Bowen served as Head Team Physician for the Chicago Bears for more than 30 years (1992-2024) as well as the Chicago Blackhawks (1997-2005) and Chicago Cubs (1991-1992). During his professional career, he held faculty and leadership positions at Northwestern University Medical School and University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine.  Dr. Bowen also founded The Northwestern Orthopedic Institute and River North Same Day Surgery Surgicenter.

A highly regarded Sports Medicine surgeon with extensive expertise in the treatment of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), rotator cuff and meniscus injuries, Dr. Bowen has contributed more than 60 orthopedic publications and given numerous presentations at scientific meetings globally.

“I am delighted to welcome Dr. Bowen back to HSS where he will help capitalize on the world’s greatest concentration of expertise to lead the changing future of musculoskeletal health,” said Dr. Kelly. “With 161 years of specialization and strong sense of purpose, we have a special responsibility and opportunity to transform possibilities for mobility, performance and longevity.”

“It is an incredible honor and privilege to join the HSS team at a moment of historic opportunity,” Dr. Bowen said. “The stage is set for transformation.”

Since its 2020 opening, HSS Florida has provided surgical and nonsurgical care for approximately 40,000 patients with conditions including joint pain, traumatic and sports-related injuries, osteoarthritis, and back pain, as well as conditions affecting the hand and upper extremities. Patients have come from counties across Florida and as far away as New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

The 60,000-square-foot facility offers comprehensive clinical orthopedic care, advanced diagnostic and on-site imaging services, physical therapy, performance testing, and an innovative outpatient total joint replacement program. Patients receive the same high-quality care that HSS delivers at all its locations, closer to home.

The location currently supports four operating suites enabled with state-of-the-art technology, a focus that transcends surgery into all options for care. “I am so proud to bring HSS-level care to this community, especially non-surgical care as a first line of treatment,” said Tara M. McCoy, CEO of HSS Florida. “We are able to offer innovative alternatives to surgery with our comprehensive approach. This is in part due to HSS Florida’s top-of-the-line rehabilitation center, which has multiple technologies that objectively measure and track patients’ progress, such as motion capture systems, force plates, and strength-testing systems. It is our honor to provide these cutting-edge treatments to this population of active adults, retirees, elite athletes, and professional dancers, and we look forward to continuing to do so over the next five years and beyond.”

The growing need for orthopedic care in Palm Beach County has led HSS Florida to double the number of physicians, from seven to 14, and operating rooms, from two to four. Exam room capacity has also increased. On the diagnostic side, HSS radiologists, who are fellowship-trained in musculoskeletal imaging, bring unmatched expertise to every case to ensure the right diagnosis and treatment from the very start. 

“When we opened HSS Florida five years ago, we were committed to delivering the most advanced treatments; exceptional, personalized care; and an unwavering focus on quality and experience,” said Sheeraz Qureshi, MD, MBA, co-chief of HSS Spine and Chief Medical Officer of HSS Florida. “It is our responsibility to not only maintain these standards, but also to expand access to our world-class expertise, ensuring the best care for every patient.”

As a trusted leader in the community, HSS Florida is committed to encouraging collaboration and knowledge-sharing across local and statewide organizations to establish strong partnerships that will optimize patient care.

“Working closely with respected area institutions is integral to ensuring we continue to deliver the highest-quality care and support for our patients,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, President and CEO at HSS. “Our recently announced collaboration with the University of Miami, our new state-of-the-art facility on the NCH North Naples Hospital campus, and our partnership with Tenet Healthcare exemplify HSS’s growing footprint in Florida. By fostering strong partnerships and sharing knowledge, we ensure patients receive comprehensive, seamless care from the experts they trust.”

HSS Florida is located at 300 Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard in West Palm Beach. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit HSS.edu/florida or call 561-657-4600.

The 5,400-square-foot facility offers a variety of resources that promote both physical and mental wellbeing, including a strengthening room, fitness classes, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and a multi-sensory recharge room. Employees also have access to warm-up and recovery equipment, a reflecting room with books and games, and private bathrooms with showers.

“We understand the enormous pressures that come with being a healthcare worker,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, President and CEO of HSS. “Our people are our greatest asset, and we must do everything we can to ensure they know just how valued they are. The HSS Wellness Center was created to show our staff the same exceptional compassion and care they give to our patients every day.”

Chief Wellness and Resiliency Officer at HSS, Steve Forti, has led the design, build, and now the operations of the center. With programming and the hours tailored to meet the diverse needs of the staff, the center will initially operate Monday through Friday to accommodate all shifts, with plans to adjust as necessary to support the staff.  A combat veteran of the U.S. Army Special Forces turned critical care nurse, Forti has dedicated his career to serving others. At HSS, he played a crucial role in supporting the wellness of frontline workers at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, earning recognition for his ability to navigate high pressure situations with skill and compassion.

“The philosophy of wellness at HSS has been driven in part by my experience as a Green Beret, but also from the needs identified by the high performing staff, at every level of HSS.  The HSS Wellness Center is the physical embodiment of those lessons learned from both the military and in medicine, to provide the physical and emotional support that allows our staff to perform at its very best.” Forti continued, “The HSS Board of Directors and senior leadership have demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting staff resilience, a dedication that enables us to continue to lead musculoskeletal care worldwide.”

Because each person’s health and wellness needs are unique, the new HSS Wellness Center offers something for everyone. The Strengthening room features premium exercise equipment for instructor-supervised individual workouts, while group classes such as yoga, kickboxing, and HIIT foster a sense of community and connection. The Recovering room will have rehabilitative equipment and physical therapy tables for pre- or post-workout mobility and recovery.

Relaxation, or as Forti insist “down-regulation” is also a major component of the new facility, offering a custom-built recharge room by Studio Elsewhere, hyperbaric oxygen therapy chambers, and a reflecting room where employees can read, play games, and unwind.

“Investing in holistic employee resources and amenities like the HSS Wellness Center cultivates a connected and engaged workforce,” said Reginald Odom, Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer at HSS.

“The new Wellness Center was designed to create a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable and included,” Odom said. “When employees recognize the value they bring to HSS and beyond, that’s when they truly excel.”

Dunleavy has previously served as CFO at larger healthcare provider systems including Boston-based Brigham Health, Dallas-based Baylor Health and USMD Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: USMD).  Since 2016 the Texas native with an Executive MBA from Baylor University has served Harvard as a lecturer on Healthcare Economics. 

“Chris was the consensus recommendation of the search committee following a process that identified five exceptional and diverse finalists,” said HSS president and chief executive officer Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA.  “He is the right person to guide the Finance function and enable HSS to lead the changing future of musculoskeletal care.”

Dr. Kelly said the process also revealed further strength in the HSS Finance leadership team.  “I’m confident Chris will enable a springboard for our exceptional leaders to realize their potential, at an important moment of opportunity for our organization.  Stacey will leave big shoes to fill, and we have tremendous opportunities to navigate.”

The HSS search committee of 28 comprised physicians, executives and Board members.

“I cannot imagine a greater opportunity for me to impact on the field of medicine,” said Dunleavy.  “With world-renowned quality and a strong balance sheet, the Finance function can and will enable HSS – the world’s largest concentration of expertise in musculoskeletal health – to rise to new opportunities in the changing healthcare landscape.”

“I look forward to partnering with my new world-class team-mates to build on Stacey’s legacy and newly empower the organization’s next generation of success.”

HSS Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director Douglas E. Padgett, MD, applauded the search process as the latest demonstration of shared leadership since Dr. Kelly called for that when he became the first surgeon to lead the institution.  “Medical and executive leaders make better decisions together and create foundational alignment that helps us to advance excellence.”

The OPC is the second HSS and Stamford Health collaboration to come to the Westport area since the opening of HSS Sports Rehab-Westport in 2022. Additional physician office locations and sports rehabilitation facilities are located in Stamford, Greenwich, New Canaan, Wilton, Norwalk and Hamden, CT.

“We’re really excited to build on the commitment we’ve made alongside Stamford Health to enhance orthopedic care options to the residents of Westport and surrounding areas,” said Samuel A. Taylor, MD, sports medicine surgeon and medical director of the OPC. “Patients now have increased access to world-class orthopedic care across a broad range of services.”

The Westport OPC features seven provider offices, 12 exam rooms, and two x-ray suites with services provided by Stamford Health Radiology. Highly specialized physicians and staff will offer care in hand and upper extremities, joint replacement, physiatry, spine, and sports medicine (surgical and non-surgical). Later this fall, the foot and ankle service will be available. Additionally, the center will launch HSS Orthopedics Now, becoming the second location in Connecticut to provide patients 12 years and older with quicker access to orthopedic care for sudden injuries and pain.

“Westport has proven to be a terrific community in which to share our unparalleled expertise in musculoskeletal health,” says Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, president and CEO of HSS. “We’re eager to expand our offerings in the Fairfield County community in partnership with Stamford Health and as part of HSS’s wider growth plan across the entire tri-state region.”

 Home to more than 25,000 residents, the town of Westport also has an intriguing historical connection to HSS as the birthplace of HSS’s third Surgeon-in-Chief, William B. Coley, MD. One of the town’s notable early families, the Coleys were prominent farmers and commercial shippers for 200 years. William Coley was born in 1862 in the Saugatuck neighborhood. The Coleytown section of Westport was named after the family.

“We are incredibly proud of our collaboration with HSS and the orthopedic care we deliver to patients,” said Kathleen Silard, president and CEO at Stamford Health. “Partnering with organizations like HSS allows us to bring world-class care to the communities we serve, close to home.”

The Westport OPC is located at 276 Post Road West and will operate Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit hss.edu/hss-orthopedics-stamford-health-westport.asp or contact the center directly at (203) 391-2270.

About Stamford Health

Stamford Health is a non-profit independent health care system with more than 3,900 employees committed to caring for the community through a wide range of high-quality health and wellness services. Patients and their families receive expert, compassionate care through the system’s 305-bed Stamford Hospital; Stamford Health Medical Group, with more than 40 offices in lower Fairfield County offering primary and specialty care; a growing number of ambulatory locations across the region; and support through the Stamford Hospital Foundation.

Stamford Health is known for its expert, person-centered care through its many recognitions and partnerships. U.S. News & World Report has recognized Stamford Hospital as a High-Performing Hospital. The Leapfrog Group awarded Stamford Hospital an “A” for patient safety. The American Nurses Credentialing Center has granted Stamford Hospital Magnet Status, which recognizes superior patient care with the highest level of safety, quality, and patient satisfaction. Stamford Health is Planetree Gold-Certified for Excellence in Person-Centered Care and is a Certified™ Great Place to Work.

Stamford Health is a major teaching affiliate of the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and offers treatment and expertise from Columbia University Irving Medical Center’s nationally recognized heart and neurosurgeons. Stamford Health and Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) have created a premier center for specialty orthopedic care right in Stamford, Connecticut. Stamford Health’s Carl & Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center has a robust collaboration with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center.

Dedicated to being the community’s most trusted health care partner, Stamford Health puts patients first to build long-lasting relationships. For more information, visit StamfordHealth.org. Like us on Facebook and follow us on X, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

According to the Bone and Joint Initiative, about half of adults in the U.S. experience musculoskeletal health related issues every year, which make it difficult to complete everyday tasks. Musculoskeletal conditions also represent one-third of all reasons requiring time away from work, and affect 20% of the workforce.

Established over 160 years ago, HSS was the first orthopedic hospital in the U.S. and remains a trailblazer in the treatment of musculoskeletal diseases. HSS delivers the highest quality of care by a team of world-class experts who are singularly focused on musculoskeletal care. HSS’ focus on providing the right diagnosis, right treatment, best outcomes, and a patient-centric delivery model results in the highest value care delivered to patients.

HSS Perform, HSS’ program for employers and unions, offers a full continuum of musculoskeletal solutions. HSS Perform includes HSS Care Concierge, a dedicated team available by phone and email, to connect members with world-class HSS specialists as well as second opinions for orthopedic or spine surgery across all HSS locations.

In addition, a digital library of educational content developed by HSS clinical experts on topics related to musculoskeletal health such as injury prevention, posture, and back health, will also be available to members.

"The UFT Welfare Fund is determined to provide our members access to the highest quality health care. To do that, we need partners who share our vision and dedication to excellence. Hospital for Special Surgery - HSS - is such a partner. Our members and their families will benefit from this vital partnership," says Michael Mulgrew, president of the United Federation of Teachers.

“HSS is dedicated to helping people get back to what they need and love to do better than any place in the world,” says Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, president, CEO and surgeon-in-chief emeritus at HSS. “By partnering with the UFT Welfare Fund, we will make top notch musculoskeletal care and outcomes more accessible to support those educating our future leaders.”

About The United Federation of Teachers Welfare Fund

Since 1965, The United Federation of Teachers (UFT) Welfare Fund has provided access to high-quality health care and benefits for hundreds of thousands of eligible UFT members and their dependents.

U.S. News evaluated nearly 5,000 hospitals in 15 specialties. Hospital performance was assessed based on various measures, including patient outcomes, level of nursing care, patient-reported experience, and available technology such as computer-assisted orthopedic surgery. The methodology factored in data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the American Hospital Association, professional organizations, and medical specialists.

“This recognition reflects 161 years of specialization and the skill and dedication of thousands of HSS colleagues who provide or support care for our patients,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, HSS president, CEO and surgeon-in-chief emeritus. “HSS is a place that inspires and empowers extraordinary people to seek and solve challenges big and small to make HSS and our patients better every day.”

Patients come to HSS from all 50 states and more than 100 countries.

“Whether for a rheumatology consultation or a highly complex surgery, choosing a healthcare provider is one of the most important decisions an individual can make,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, surgeon-in-chief and medical director of HSS. “The U.S. News rankings are a testament to our success in providing the highest quality care for patients who trust HSS. As our institution grows to offer services to more people, we will continue to provide evidence-based, personalized care to achieve the best outcomes.” 

“The U.S. News rankings highlight the recognition of excellence in rheumatology at HSS and emphasize the importance of specialized expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases,” said S. Louis Bridges, Jr., MD, PhD, physician-in-chief and chief of the Division of Rheumatology. “Accurate, prompt diagnosis of these often-challenging diseases remains the cornerstone of successful treatment. Many rheumatologists at HSS focus on specific rheumatic conditions, which leads to better patient outcomes. Our clinicians work closely with HSS researchers to enhance our understanding of rheumatic diseases and develop innovative treatment approaches to benefit patients worldwide.”

HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center specializing in musculoskeletal health and the only hospital in North America designated by the World Economic Forum to serve in the Global Coalition for Value in Healthcare. HSS maintains the nation’s lowest hospital readmission rates for orthopedics and among the lowest infection and complication rates. HSS has been named No. 1 in the world for orthopedics by Newsweek each year since introducing its “world’s best hospitals” survey in 2020.

In 2023, HSS clinicians and surgeons provided specialized care to more than 211,000 patients with orthopedic or rheumatologic conditions, such as pain or injury to the back, neck, or joints; osteoarthritis; rheumatoid arthritis; lupus; scleroderma; and psoriatic arthritis. HSS performed more than 41,000 orthopedic surgical procedures in 2023.

HSS is the official hospital of and provides team physicians to more than 20 high performing sports teams and leagues, including the New York Giants, New York Knicks, New York Liberty, Brooklyn Nets, New York Mets, New York Red Bulls, New York Road Runners, National Basketball Players Association, Major League Pickleball, US Youth Soccer, and UFC. It is designated a Medical Center of Excellence by Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

* Copyright © 2024 U.S. News & World Report, L.P. Data reprinted with permission from U.S. News.

AN EVENING RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE IN MUSCULOSKELETAL MEDICINE

At HSS’s premier fundraising event recognizing physicians and philanthropists making an impact in the field of musculoskeletal medicine, Mr. Griffin was presented with the 2024 HSS Tribute Dinner Award by Robert K. Steel, Co-Chair of the HSS Board of Directors. Dr. Haas was presented with the HSS Lifetime Achievement Award by baseball legend Bernie Williams, and Dr. Potter was presented with the HSS Lifetime Achievement Award by Chase Coleman, founder of Tiger Global and an HSS Trustee.

The evening, which featured a musical performance by five-time Grammy Award-winner Jon Batiste, was attended by over 750 guests and raised more than $5 million for patient care, research and medical education.

“The Lifetime Achievement Award is our highest recognition for an outstanding healthcare leader at HSS,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, Surgeon-In-Chief and Medical Director. “Both Drs. Haas and Potter exemplify the qualities that make HSS unique: their unwavering dedication to providing the highest quality of care; consistent efforts to advance the science in their respective fields; and their leadership in developing new techniques, technologies and treatment advances that have transformed the lives of patients around the world.”

An Extraordinary GIFT

With the new transformational gift from Mr. Griffin announced at the event, HSS will establish the Kenneth C. Griffin Research Accelerator to accelerate the pace of innovative research to help millions of people regain their mobility and quality of life. Mr. Griffin’s donation will advance work to better personalize treatment to the unique clinical needs of each patient and will also support construction of the HSS Kellen Tower, a new headquarters for joint replacement surgery and global destination for the treatment of complex orthopedic problems that is expected to open in 2025.

“We are privileged to honor Ken with the Tribute Dinner Award and to have his incredible support,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, President and CEO at HSS. “As one of the country’s foremost philanthropists, Ken has demonstrated outstanding leadership in his efforts to improve quality and access to healthcare. His support of cutting-edge research drives progress in science and medicine that will have a global impact.”

Joint pain affects more than 80 million adults in the United States, with nearly 1 in 2 people experiencing chronic pain in the knee. HSS performs more than 12,000 hip and knee replacement surgeries annually, more than any other hospital in the United States. The breadth of expertise and high patient volume uniquely position HSS to drive innovative investigations for joint disease so that patients can achieve the mobility and function they desire, with results that will last a lifetime.

“The extraordinary scientists, physicians, and healthcare professionals at the Hospital for Special Surgery lead the world in the research and treatment of orthopedic care,” said Mr. Griffin. “I am proud to support HSS in its broad impact that stretches from helping elite athletes get back on the field to enabling seniors to actively engage with their grandchildren. The research and innovation at HSS is changing the lives of people around the world.”

Mr. Griffin has previously supported vital investigations in knee replacement surgery and precision medicine, as well as the expansion of facilities for care and research at HSS.

“We are deeply grateful for Ken’s remarkable generosity. This gift will help us establish how to personalize every aspect of knee replacement surgery for maximum benefit,” said Dr. Haas.

“Ken’s generous contribution and partnership will have significant impact in creating the best environment for joint replacement care at HSS and in shaping the standards of care globally,” said Mr. Steel.

“I’m very proud of our team for publishing this work, which validates hip arthroscopy as a longer-term joint-preserving procedure in carefully selected patients,” says Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, President and CEO of HSS and a world-renowned pioneer in the field of hip arthroscopy who also served as senior author on the study. “At HSS, we focus on providing excellence in clinical care through innovation and evidence-based research. This paper is a prime example of the benefits of advancing innovations in surgical techniques and analyzing patient data collected over many years so we can understand and share the factors associated with optimal results.”

Hip impingement, also called femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), is a condition that typically arises between the teenage years and middle age, and is the underlying cause of hip pain in about 40% of patients in this age range. Hip impingement occurs when the bones of the hip joint are not shaped properly, causing them to rub against one another. Over time, the persistent friction can lead to pain and stiffness, eventually progressing to advanced arthritis. 

Prior studies have shown that 85-90% of patients with hip impingement who undergo modern arthroscopy return to their usual activity level. However, until now, little has been known about whether modern arthroscopy can slow the progression of arthritis in these patients. To explore this connection, investigators examined X-ray images of 200 hips from 100 patients who exhibited signs of impingement in both hips but only underwent arthroscopy for their symptomatic hip between 2010 and 2012. The severity of arthritis in each hip was assessed retrospectively using X-ray images taken before surgery and at least 10 years later. Notably, the researchers were unaware of which hips had undergone surgical correction during the assessment.

The resulting analysis revealed only 28% of operative hips showed an increase in arthritis progression at a minimum of 10 years after surgery in comparison to 48% of nonoperative hips. This difference translated to a relative risk reduction of 42% across all patients. 

While there was no difference in the natural development of arthritis between the operative and nonoperative hips for 70% of patients, one in four, or 25%, had less arthritis in their operative hip compared to their nonoperative hip 10 years later.

“Previous studies by other centers have reported underwhelming 10-year arthroplasty outcomes for patients with hip impingement. However, those studies reported on older surgical indications and older surgical techniques,” explains lead author and former HSS fellow Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA, now an orthopedic surgeon at Long Beach Lakewood Orthopedic Institute, in Long Beach, California. “By contrast, we studied the effect of modern arthroscopic methods by comparing the degree of arthritis in each patient’s operative hip versus their nonoperative hip. Our research design controlled for variables such as age, medical history, lifestyle, and individual mechanics like rotational profile, spinal alignment and gait—leaving history of arthroscopy as the single factor driving any resulting differences in arthritis progression.”

In addition, the investigators identified a small subset of patients whose arthritis progressed more rapidly in the operative hip as compared to the nonoperative hip. Specifically, older age, a higher arthritis grade, an alpha angle greater than 65 degrees and evidence of borderline hip dysplasia before surgery were the primary risk factors associated with the 5% of hip impingement patients whose arthritis in the operative hip worsened more quickly after surgery.

“We can now identify patients most likely to benefit from arthroscopy for hip impingement and inform patients about their anticipated odds of successful outcomes based on their personal risk factors. For ideal candidates, the evidence shows that hip arthroscopy may delay or prevent arthritis for one in four patients. That’s very powerful information,” says Danyal H. Nawabi, MD, FRCS, an HSS orthopedic surgeon and an author on the study.

Dr. Nawabi also points to the importance of the modern techniques used to care for patients in the study, all of whom were patients of Dr. Kelly. These methods include labrum repair, removal of bony abnormalities on the ball and socket, and proper closure of the joint capsule enveloping the hip joint. “This study is a testament to the fact that where you go for orthopedic care truly matters,” he adds.

Thus far, the paper has garnered two awards: the 2024 American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine Fellow Research Award for Clinical Science, which will be presented at the AOSSM Annual Meeting in July, as well as the Philip D. Wilson, MD, Award, presented by HSS in honor of the hospital’s fifth Surgeon-in-Chief to a fellow who has demonstrated excellence in orthopedic surgery research.

“The future of musculoskeletal care delivery will be driven by expertise increasingly augmented with data and technology to expand access, monitor musculoskeletal health, study movement, and prevent disease,” said HSS Chief Performance Officer Scott DeNegre. “We have a timely opportunity to marry the foremost experts in medicine, data science, and technology to design a better system of care.”

This support from Schmidt Futures, a philanthropic initiative founded by Eric and Wendy Schmidt, will be dedicated to creating the HSS Data Innovation Lab, with the mission of assembling exceptional artificial intelligence researchers and partnering them with clinicians to develop new technology and accelerate ongoing efforts to modernize care delivery. When grounded in trusted clinical expertise, artificial intelligence has the potential to transform healthcare delivery, unlocking the best practices in medical decision making and treatment planning, and enabling personalized, high quality, care to be delivered at scale.

“Together, we can not only revolutionize the delivery system, but also democratize high quality care and enable access for underserved communities across the globe,” said HSS President and CEO Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA.

The cornerstone of the HSS Data Innovation Lab will be the data ecosystem, which will enable the exploration of disease generation, injury risk factors, and successful treatment options across patients from different racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The knowledge, mathematical models, and technology solutions developed in the lab will expand access to care, improve clinical outcomes, and advance our understanding of musculoskeletal disease. The output of the lab will be made available to healthcare providers and patients across the globe, laying the foundation for significant disruption in our field and enabling humans to live longer and healthier lives.

Today’s ceremony marks the beginning of construction that will result in a state-of-the-art facility on the NCH North Naples Hospital campus that is more than 80,000 square feet in size. The center will offer outpatient and inpatient orthopedic services, including an ambulatory surgery center and imaging and rehabilitation services that will be jointly owned and operated with HSS. With the goal of funding this project primarily through private philanthropy, the new facility is expected to open to patients in early 2025. 

“I am immensely proud to have helped bring HSS to our community,” said Jay Baker, Board Trustee at NCH, who alongside his wife, Patty, pledged a $20 million match grant earmarked for orthopedic services. “The new HSS at NCH collaboration is a testament to our commitment to world-class healthcare, and we are honored to have contributed to this transformative endeavor.”

Founded in 1863 and headquartered in New York City, HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center specializing in musculoskeletal health. HSS has been recognized as a top-ranked hospital for both orthopedics and rheumatology for 31 consecutive years, ranking no. 1 in orthopedics worldwide for the past four years by Newsweek and nationwide since 2010 by US News & World Report. Performing over 35,000 orthopedic surgical procedures annually, they consistently maintain the lowest complication and readmission rates for orthopedics in the nation. 

This past summer, HSS and NCH proudly announced the appointment of David L. Helfet, MD, renowned HSS orthopedic trauma surgeon, as Executive Medical Director of HSS at NCH. While Dr. Helfet’s focus on orthopedic trauma has earned international acclaim, he also specializes in hip conditions and is part of the Hip Preservation Service at HSS. He is consistently ranked as one of New York Magazine's "Best Doctors in New York" and Castle Connolly's "America's Top Doctors." Under Dr. Helfet’s leadership, HSS at NCH will bring expert orthopedic surgeons to the area to perform a wide range of state-of-the-art orthopedic procedures.

Thousands of Florida residents are among the patients from more than 100 countries and all 50 states who have visited New York City for treatment at the HSS main campus. With the groundbreaking of the HSS at NCH center, these partners are one step closer to realizing their vision of providing leading-edge orthopedic care to the community without necessitating travel outside of Southwest Florida.

“This groundbreaking marks an important milestone in our quest to bring world-class orthopedic care to our community as NCH continues its journey to become an Advanced Community Healthcare System™,” said Paul Hiltz, President & CEO, NCH.  “We are thrilled to be collaborating with HSS – the world leader in orthopedics – to make this high level of care available to our patients.”

“NCH and HSS are both patient-centric organizations committed to high-quality care, and we are aligned in our goal of making the highest quality orthopedic care more accessible to the people of Southwest Florida,” said HSS President and CEO, Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA. “This is especially important to us at HSS, where we feel a great sense of responsibility not just to help more people, but to consistently achieve the highest quality outcomes for patients.”

“This new center made possible by Patty and Jay Baker will ultimately shape the way premier orthopedic care is served to this community for generations to come,” said Dr. Helfet. “We are building a world class team of doctors, surgeons, nurses and more, from around the world and within this community.”

“Our growing team is already hard at work, transferring and implementing HSS knowledge, standards, and methods to achieve the world’s highest-quality clinical care and patient experience right here in Southwest Florida,” added Dr. Helfet.

All donations to support orthopedic services at NCH are matched by the $20 million grant pledged by the Bakers. For more information on how you can support HSS at NCH and be part of this historic partnership, please contact the NCH Center for Philanthropy at 239-624-2000. 

About NCH

NCH is a locally governed non-profit and an Advanced Community Health System^TM located in Naples, Florida. The System is more than just two hospitals (referred to as the NCH Baker Hospital and NCH North Hospital) with a total of 713 beds. NCH is an alliance of 775 physicians and medical facilities in dozens of locations throughout Southwest Florida that offers nationally recognized, quality health care to our community. Our mission is to help everyone live a longer, happier, healthier life.  For more information, visit www.NCHmd.org.

Dr. Memtsoudis succeeds Gregory A. Liguori, MD, who has led the department with distinction for the past 21 years. As Chief Emeritus, Dr. Liguori will focus on his practice at HSS, continue to chair the Credentials Committee and teach as a Professor at Weill Cornell Medicine, and maintain his roles on the Medical Board, Physician Practice Committee, and MIAC.

Dr. Zhou will succeed Interim Chair Matthew E. Fink, MD, who will return full-time to his role as Chairman of the Department of Neurology at Weill Cornell Medicine and Neurologist-in-Chief at NewYork- Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center.  Dr. Fink accepted HSS’ request to serve as interim leader following the retirement of Dale J. Lange, MD, who led the department for 13 years.  Dr. Zhou will lead the continued advancement of HSS’ Neurology Department in collaboration with Weill Cornell Medicine Neurology.

"Drs. Fink and Ligouri have provided instrumental support for their clinical colleagues exemplifying excellence in medicine—HSS is grateful for their leadership," said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, President and CEO, HSS. "We are thrilled to have the expertise and stewardship of Dr. Zhou and Dr. Memtsoudis in advancing translational and clinical research programs that will serve the needs of all of our patient populations. Their collaborative approaches to musculoskeletal health will strengthen our multidisciplinary services and further improve patient care and recovery."

"HSS is recognized as a leader in musculoskeletal health because of the unparalleled number of talented and accomplished experts who call it home," said Douglas Padgett, MD, Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director at HSS. "The appointments of Dr. Memtsoudis and Dr. Zhou embody our tradition of strong leaders committed to addressing pain and movement challenges, continuing the advancement of our rich clinical pipeline toward improved health and wellness for everyone."

Stavros Memtsoudis, MD, PhD, MBA

Dr. Memtsoudis is board-certified in anesthesiology and critical care medicine. He earned his medical degree and PhD from Georg-August-University Medical School, in Goettingen, Germany, in 1999, and his MBA from the University of Massachusetts in 2018. Dr. Memtsoudis joined HSS after completing subspecialty training in critical care medicine, cardiac care, and thoracic anesthesiology. He is widely recognized for his clinical expertise in the perioperative care of orthopedic patients with advanced cardiovascular and pulmonary disease as well as his prolific research into perioperative care. During the height of COVID-19, elective surgeries, such as hip and knee replacements, were canceled to accommodate patients requiring hospital admission. Dr. Memtsoudis was instrumental in leading musculoskeletal medical teams at HSS in managing critical care patients.   

As a senior scientist, Dr. Memtsoudis directs research initiatives on cardiopulmonary physiology and population-based outcomes research. His findings have been published in more than 380 peer-reviewed articles. Due to his prominence in the field of perioperative research, Dr. Memtsoudis has won several prestigious research awards, frequently lectures on the topic, and serves on anesthesia and pain medicine boards nationally and internationally. 

"Excellence and continuity of patient care are our highest priorities at HSS," said Dr. Memtsoudis. "I have the pleasure of being a member of an incredible team of experts, and I'm equally passionate about working alongside internationally prominent clinician-

scientists who prioritize delivering the highest-quality care to all our patients."

Dr. Memtsoudis's new role is effective immediately.

Lan Zhou, MD, PhD

Dr. Zhou is a nationally renowned neuromuscular specialist with a long history of clinical and academic accomplishments. She earned her medical degree from Shanghai Medical University School of Medicine in China (now Fudan University Medical Center) in 1989 before completing her PhD in developmental biology at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in 1995. Previously, Dr. Zhou served as a staff neurologist at Cleveland Clinic, an associate professor of neurology, neurosurgery, and pathology at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and a professor of neurology and neurotherapeutics and pathology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. She comes to HSS from Boston University School of Medicine, where she has served as a professor of neurology and pathology and Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Neurology. 

Dr. Zhou cares for patients with neuromuscular diseases and regularly performs and interprets nerve, muscle, and skin biopsies as part of her practice. She has special interests in small-fiber neuropathy, inflammatory myopathy, myasthenia gravis, and neuromuscular pathology. Additionally, she is recognized as an outstanding educator and muscle research scientist. She runs a National Institutes of Health–funded research program to study muscle inflammation, fibrosis, and regeneration associated with skeletal muscle injury and repair. In her new role at HSS, she will establish a clinical diagnostic neuromuscular pathology laboratory.

"I'm honored to take on this new role, building upon and developing new programs that will continue to serve the diverse patient communities at HSS," said Dr. Zhou. "My passion is to make a meaningful impact in the lives of patients and families living with neuromuscular diseases and to work with musculoskeletal teams to develop effective treatments to help them live better."

Dr. Zhou's new role is effective March 1, 2024.