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.

In this role, Dr. Press will help shape the future of non-operative musculoskeletal care across  HSS – supporting regional expansion, optimizing practice operations, enhancing access and the patient experience across all sites of care, and overseeing a diverse portfolio of clinical programs.

Dr. Press will report to Douglas E. Padgett, MD, Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director at HSS, and will work closely with Associate Surgeon-in-Chiefs Drs. Answorth Allen and Mathias Bostrom, as well as department and service leaders, to advance and integrate non-operative musculoskeletal care across the institution. He will also have a central leadership role in institutional initiatives focused on quality, safety, innovation, and strategic growth.

“Dr. Press has made significant contributions to the advancement of musculoskeletal medicine and is one of the most highly regarded physiatrists in the diagnosis and management of non-operative sports and spine conditions,” said Bryan Kelly, MD, MBA, President and Chief Executive Officer of HSS. “His leadership will play a pivotal role in advancing HSS’s mission to expand access to high-quality non-operative care, deepen physician engagement, and drive innovation in musculoskeletal health.”

Dr. Press is a nationally and internationally recognized leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation. He brings decades of experience building and leading high-performing, multidisciplinary musculoskeletal programs and is widely respected for his collaborative leadership style and commitment to advancing value-based, patient-centered care.

“Dr. Press will be a strong asset to our executive team as we work to shape HSS’s next chapter—one defined by expanded access, integrated care, clinical innovation, and enduring leadership in musculoskeletal health,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director at HSS.

Dr. Press is currently Physiatrist-in-Chief at HSS and Professor of Rehabilitation Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College. He has built a distinguished clinical and leadership career in musculoskeletal care, including his prior role as founder and director of the Spine and Sports Rehabilitation Centers at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago.

A prolific scholar and educator, Dr. Press has authored more than 75 peer-reviewed publications, edited multiple textbooks, and has held national leadership roles across major professional societies in musculoskeletal medicine, rehabilitation, and sports medicine. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency at Northwestern University.

For 25 years, Dr. Press has been consistently named among the best doctors in the country by Castle Connolly.

“I am honored to serve as Physician-in-Chief at HSS during such a pivotal moment in the evolution of musculoskeletal care,” said Dr. Press. “I look forward to partnering with my colleagues to build on HSS’s extraordinary legacy and help shape what comes next not just at HSS but within the field of musculoskeletal health at large.”

This newly created role reflects HSS’s continued focus on expanding and integrating its ambulatory footprint to support high-quality care across sites.

McPherson will be responsible for leading system-wide ambulatory operations, with oversight of ambulatory surgery centers, outpatient clinics, and select ancillary services. In this role, she will drive operational performance, standardization, and coordination across sites to advance HSS’s growth and care delivery priorities.

“Val’s appointment strengthens our ability to deliver a more coordinated, high-performing ambulatory model at scale,” said Mary Cassai, executive vice president and chief operating officer at HSS. “Her experience leading complex clinical operations and driving performance across sites will be important as we expand access to more patients across the New York Tri-State region and enhance the patient experience.”

McPherson joins HSS from Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center, where she served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Nursing Officer. She brings more than 25 years of experience leading clinical and operational functions across complex health systems.

“Val is a highly accomplished healthcare executive with deep experience in leading complex clinical operations,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD. “She will play a key role in strengthening our ambulatory platform and supporting continued growth across the system.”

“HSS has set the standard for musculoskeletal care through a clear focus on quality and outcomes,” said McPherson. “I’m looking forward to advancing the operational capabilities that support that care—expanding access, improving efficiency, and ensuring a seamless experience for patients.”

McPherson joins HSS on April 27, reporting directly to Mary Cassai.

“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.” 
 

Dr. Fragomen succeeds S. Robert Rozbruch, MD, who founded the service in 2005 and has led it with distinction over the past 20 years. Dr. Rozbruch will continue practicing at HSS, focusing on his clinical work and research.

In his new role, Dr. Fragomen will oversee one of the foremost centers dedicated to limb lengthening and reconstruction worldwide—a highly specialized service providing treatment for a broad spectrum of conditions affecting the limbs. Patients from across the United States and around the world have come to HSS for the special expertise that the team offers.

“We are immensely grateful and thank Dr. Rozbruch for his many years of leadership as a clinician, researcher, and educator,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, HSS Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director.  “Over the years, Dr. Fragomen has demonstrated his deep commitment to advancing the field of limb lengthening and complex reconstruction. He has played a key role at HSS and in the broader orthopedic community, often finding solutions for patients with the most complex conditions.”

Dr. Fragomen and colleagues provide expert care for patients with leg length discrepancies or deformities; limb malalignment and pain caused by bowlegs or knock knees; foot and ankle deformities; and complications related to bone healing, alignment or infection after trauma. Specialized practitioners also perform upper extremity lengthening and deformity correction; bone reconstruction or transport after tumor excision; limb salvage procedures; and osseointegration limb replacement for patients with an amputation.

“In addition to the skill and expertise of our highly specialized surgeons, our close collaboration with other services at HSS ensures coordinated and comprehensive care for patients with these complex medical problems,” Dr. Fragomen explains.

As Director of the Limb Lengthening and Complex Reconstruction Fellowship Program at HSS and a professor of clinical orthopedic surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, Dr. Fragomen has a longstanding commitment to education and training. Over the years, he has served as a valued mentor to countless medical school students, orthopedic surgery residents and fellows.  

He has also welcomed surgeons from across the United States and around the world who come to HSS for monthlong observerships to learn advanced techniques and approaches to complex orthopedic challenges.

Dr. Fragomen is also deeply engaged in research and has published nearly 200 scientific papers and book chapters. He has presented his work at medical meetings across the United States and abroad and has lectured extensively on topics related to residency training programs. He is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction Society-ASAMI North America, serving as the group’s president from 2019 to 2021.  

In his new role, Dr. Fragomen includes among his goals maintaining and enhancing HSS’s reputation as a world leader in patient care, research and education in limb deformity, limb lengthening, limb reconstruction and replacement. “We will continue to train the next generation of highly specialized orthopedic surgeons so they can bring safe and effective treatments to populations around the globe,” Dr. Fragomen said.  “At the same time, we remain committed to ensuring that patients here at home have access to the services and expertise they need.”

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.

Dr. Schroeder joins HSS from Northwestern University, where he held joint appointments as Professor in the departments of Medical Education and Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery at the Feinberg School of Medicine. During his more than two decades of service, he helped to strengthen educational infrastructure and develop sustainable governance models through multiple leadership roles in graduate and undergraduate medical education and faculty development, including as inaugural Vice Chair of Education in the Department of Surgery at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and as Assistant Designated Institutional Official (DIO) at the McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University. McGaw is a not-for-profit consortium that supports graduate medical education for more than 1,200 residents and fellows across over 180 accredited and non-ACGME programs affiliated with the Feinberg School of Medicine.

Trained as an otolaryngologist, Dr. Schroeder was also the long-time Program Director of the Pediatric Otolaryngology Fellowship at Lurie Children’s Hospital—one of the highest-rated programs of its kind in the country. His clinical expertise lies in the management of pediatric sinonasal, airway and swallowing disorders, and his research focuses on pediatric dysphagia related to congenital and acquired airway conditions. He has published more than 70 scientific articles and book chapters and he lectures frequently on these topics. Dr. Schroeder plans to continue his clinical practice at Weill Cornell Medical Center.

At HSS, Dr. Schroeder will oversee all graduate and continuing medical education programs, academic promotions, alumni relations, community health needs, credentialing and other scholarly activities. He will also play a central role in advancing HSS’s educational vision through expanded interprofessional learning, enhanced faculty development, and a focus on ensuring that residents and fellows have the mentorship, resources and learning environments they need to thrive.

“Education is central to our mission and to the advancement of musculoskeletal care worldwide,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director at HSS. “Dr. Schroeder’s leadership and depth of experience will help shape the next generation of physicians and ensure that HSS remains at the forefront of medical education and innovation.”

“I’m honored to join the talented team at HSS at a moment when changing healthcare needs and innovation in healthcare delivery are redefining what’s possible in musculoskeletal medicine,” said Dr. Schroeder. “As technology continues to reshape the way we provide the highest quality care to more people today, it reinforces our need to embrace and lead the changing paradigms of medical and surgical education for the healthcare leaders of tomorrow. I’m proud to help guide the future direction of our renowned education programs and to make expert musculoskeletal knowledge more accessible and relevant to clinicians everywhere.”

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.

Effective March 1, Dr. Williams succeeds Andrew D. Pearle, MD, who has led the HSS Sports Medicine Institute since 2019 and will continue his distinguished clinical practice and research activities at HSS.

“We are very grateful for Dr. Pearle’s exceptional leadership over the past six years,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, surgeon-in-chief and medical director at HSS. With Dr. Williams at the helm, the SMI will continue to break new ground in clinical care, research and education, helping athletes and active individuals of all abilities return to the activities they love.”

A trailblazer in sports medicine, Dr. Williams specializes in knee, shoulder and elbow surgery, with a focus on knee ligament repair and cartilage reconstruction after sports-related and orthopedic injuries.  He performed the first knee cartilage transplantation in New York at HSS in 1998. He is also a trusted medical expert for elite athletes and professional teams worldwide, serving as Medical Director and Head Team Orthopedic Surgeon for the Brooklyn Nets, New York Liberty, and New York Red Bulls MLS. He also leads the FIFA Medical Center of Excellence at HSS and was recently appointed the New York Chief Venue Medical Officer for the FIFA World Cup in 2026.

“I’m incredibly honored, humbled and excited to step into this new role,” said Dr. Williams, “It is a career milestone, and I owe a deep debt of gratitude to my peers and colleagues for their profound influence over the years.”

Leading a multidisciplinary team of more than 60 clinicians across HSS locations in New York, Connecticut, New Jersey and South Florida, Dr. Williams will focus on fostering greater collaboration among sports medicine surgeons and physicians, with the goal of taking patient outcomes, research and education to new heights.

“The HSS Sports Medicine Institute is home to the world’s greatest concentration of talent in the field. Dr. Williams is the right leader for their next chapter,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, HSS President & CEO. “His passion for performance, recovery and collaborative care will help the future of sports medicine and deliver outstanding results for our patients.”

Dr. Williams attended Yale University and is a graduate of the Stanford University School of Medicine. He then completed his residency in Orthopedic Surgery and a fellowship in Sports Medicine and Shoulder surgery at HSS, before starting his practice. Dr. Williams has published over 141 peer-reviewed research papers over his career. With hundreds of invited lectureships and several notable teaching awards over his career, he is widely regarded as a key opinion leader in the field of Sports Medicine.

Dr. Williams is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, the International Cartilage Regeneration and Joint Preservation Society, the Orthopaedic Research Society, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and the NBA Physicians Association.

Dr. Drake has been a consultant in the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota since 2007. He assumed a dual role as a consultant in Mayo Clinic’s Division of Hematology in 2017. He has been an Associate Professor of Medicine at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science since 2015.

Dr. Drake will ensure the continued excellence of the clinical, educational and investigative programs in the Division of Endocrinology and the Metabolic Bone Service. He will work with HSS physicians and staff to optimize quality, the patient experience and outcomes. His role will include collaboration with internists and orthopedic surgeons at HSS, particularly those focused on joint replacement, sports medicine and spine, to identify and address risk factors related to bone health that could affect surgical outcomes.

“Dr. Drake is a world-renowned endocrinologist with clinical and research expertise on age related bone loss, and we enthusiastically welcome him to HSS,” said S. Louis Bridges, Jr., MD, PhD, physician-in-chief and chair of the Department of Medicine at HSS. “His impressive background and considerable experience are vital assets that will enable us to maintain our role as a leader in the diagnosis, treatment and research in endocrine and metabolic bone diseases.”

“With its outstanding reputation for providing the highest standards of care, passion for excellence and innovation, and strong commitment to improving the lives of patients everywhere, it is an honor and a privilege to join HSS,” said Dr. Drake. “I look forward to working closely with the clinical and research staff and collaborating with a highly motivated team of specialized faculty to achieve our best musculoskeletal health outcomes.”

The recipient of numerous research grants from the National Institutes of Health, Dr. Drake will play a key role in the internationally recognized research programs at HSS, collaborating with leaders of the HSS Research Institute, the Department of Orthopedics and the Division of Rheumatology, to define priorities for investigation.

Dr. Drake’s own research has focused on the underlying mechanisms and skeletal changes related to age-related bone loss. He has also sought to better understand how cancer affects bone health. Dr. Drake believes that unraveling the mysteries of how normal aging or the presence of malignancies leads to the softening or destruction of bone mass could ultimately lead to new or improved methods to prevent and treat bone loss.

Dr. Drake’s dedication to his field includes a long list of professional activities. He has served as an independent content reviewer on the Task Force on Cell-Based Therapies for the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASMBR); as a member of the Task Force on Managing Osteoporosis Patients after Long-Term Bisphosphonate Treatment for the ASBMR; and on the scientific advisory boards of the Rare Bone Disease Alliance, Fibrous Dysplasia Foundation, and the Soft Bones Foundation.

His research has been featured in 125 peer-reviewed articles, and he has written 11 book chapters on topics that include the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, myeloma bone disease, and disorders of calcium and bone metabolism.

Dr. Drake graduated Magna Cum Laude from Harvard College, where he received an AB degree in Biology. He attended Washington University earning his MD degree in addition to a PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology. He went on to an Internal Medicine/Endocrinology residency at Duke University Medical Center, where he also completed a clinical research fellowship. His academic accomplishments include a second clinical research fellowship in Endocrinology at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine.

“The advancement of patient care practices at HSS is demonstrated through our commitment to recruiting outstanding physician leaders in our clinical specialties,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, surgeon-in-chief and medical director at HSS. “Drs. Drake’s and Stein’s dedication and expertise in the field of endocrinology demonstrates our relentless focus on high-quality and high-value healthcare for our patients.”

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.”

As Co-Chief of HSS Spine and holder of the Patty and Jay Baker Chair in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Dr. Qureshi is an internationally recognized leader in the field of minimally invasive and motion-sparing spine surgery. In his expanded role as Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Qureshi will oversee clinical operations and quality across all HSS Florida locations and for HSS at NCH. He will also partner with HSS Florida CEO Tara McCoy to make HSS care more accessible to more people across the state of Florida and cultivate relationships with industry, employers and other strategic partners. Dr. Qureshi will maintain his leadership role and clinical practice at the HSS Main Campus in New York.

“I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Qureshi to our team. He brings a wealth of clinical experience and proven leadership history to HSS Florida,” said Ms. McCoy. “I’m looking forward to collaborating with him to expand high-quality leading-edge treatment options to patients across the state.”

“I am honored and deeply grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with a dynamic Florida clinical team and staff who are dedicated to improving orthopedic care in the communities we serve,” Dr. Qureshi said. “Together, we will continue to provide more people with the high-quality orthopedic care they have come to expect from HSS.”

David Backstein, MD, is Appointed Medical Director of HSS at NCH

Dr. Backstein is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in primary and revision total knee replacement and primary hip replacement. He has special expertise in the use of minimally invasive and robotic techniques in joint replacement surgeries. Dr. Backstein, who joined HSS at NCH earlier this year from the University of Toronto where he led the division of orthopedics at Mount Sinai Hospital, is the recipient of numerous awards for clinical research and has published more than 200 papers in peer-reviewed journals. He regularly presents his work at conferences all over the country and around the globe.

Dr. Backstein succeeds Dr. Helfet, who has helped to guide the first year of the HSS at NCH collaboration. As Founding Medical Director, Dr. Helfet will continue to serve the Naples community, providing education on HSS and the new HSS at NCH Musculoskeletal Center as well as partnering with the HSS and NCH philanthropy teams. Additionally, he will serve as a conduit between HSS at NCH and HSS’s main campus in New York City, helping to foster increased clinical alignment.

“Dr. Helfet’s expertise has been paramount in establishing the musculoskeletal center and the Orthopedic Service, and his collaboration with Dr. Backstein will ensure that our world-class orthopedic care and outstanding patient experience are seamless for communities in southwest Florida,” said Dr. Padgett. “Dr. Backstein’s leadership complements our dedication to excellence and to move healthcare forward for the residents of Florida and beyond.”

“We are excited about these additions to leadership. We continue to strengthen our collaboration while enhancing our ability to deliver outstanding orthopedic health services,” said Paul Hiltz, President and CEO, NCH. “This marks an exciting new chapter for HSS at NCH.”

“Fostering a stronger collaboration between HSS and NCH clinicians, researchers, and industry partners to find clinical solutions for patients in our Florida communities will be a primary focus for me in my new role,” said Dr. Backstein. “I’m looking forward to working with Dr. Helfet and the greater care team to bridge the gap between clinical need and outcomes.”

The HSS at NCH musculoskeletal center, now under development, spans more than 80,000 square feet and will be the centerpiece in the HSS at NCH collaboration to elevate orthopedic care in Naples and Southwest Florida. The facility will offer outpatient and inpatient orthopedic services, including an ambulatory surgery center, imaging, and rehabilitation, and will be jointly operated by HSS and NCH. The HSS at NCH facility is scheduled to open in 2025.

“We are immensely grateful and thank Dr. Roberts for his many years of leadership as a clinician, scientist and educator,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, surgeon-in-chief and medical director at HSS. “Dr. Demetracopoulos’s impressive expertise will continue to drive clinical research, innovation, and education forward to provide the highest quality care possible to patients.”  

Dr. Demetracopoulos is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle surgery. Internationally recognized in the field of total ankle replacement, he also directs the multidisciplinary Total Ankle Replacement Center at HSS, which brings together a specialized team of doctors, nurses, and physical therapists focused on advancing the treatment of ankle arthritis, with the goal of improving outcomes for patients.

“I am honored to lead and collaborate with colleagues who are top specialists in orthopedics and to continue the record of excellence of the Foot and Ankle Service,” said Dr. Demetracopoulos. “Our multidisciplinary model of evidence-based care will keep HSS at the forefront and offer patients access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options to ensure the best possible outcomes.”

Dr. Demetracopoulos earned his MD degree at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. He completed his residency training at HSS, and his fellowship training at Duke University Medical Center.  His research in ankle arthritis and ankle replacement has earned distinctions from the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society and the International Federation of Foot and Ankle Societies, and grant support from the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation and the Arthritis Foundation.

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.

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. 

Specialized for 160 years, HSS is ranked No. 1 in the world for orthopedics.  “As the world’s greatest concentration of expertise in musculoskeletal health, we recognize our special responsibility and opportunity to ensure the highest quality talent, knowledge, patient care and outcomes at all our locations,” said Douglas E. Padgett, MD, HSS Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director.

“Dr. Altchek was a visionary in bringing HSS to Florida, where the high quality of life creates especially high appreciation and demand for better quality musculoskeletal care,” said Tara McCoy, chief executive officer at HSS Florida. “Drs. Sama and Simovitch are proven collaborative leaders who will continue to grow our strength, presence and impact in the West Palm Beach community and beyond." 

HSS Florida offers surgical and non-surgical expertise for conditions including joint pain, trauma and sports injuries, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, back pain, and conditions of the hand, upper extremities, foot and ankle for both pediatric and adult patients — including professional and youth athletes. Since its opening in 2020, it has broadened the delivery of musculoskeletal care to include injury prevention guidance to youth sports teams, performance services in collaboration with TB12, and workforce wellness support for employers throughout the state.  

“HSS Florida has been incredibly busy providing the highest-quality musculoskeletal care to the West Palm Beach community for more than three years,” said Dr. Altchek. “I am grateful to have been part of bringing this care vision to life and now, with the appointments of Drs. Sama and Simovitch, this will allow us to continue to advance clinical excellence and outcomes for our patients.” 

For more information on HSS Florida or to schedule an appointment, visit HSS.edu/Florida or call 561-657-4600. 

Drs. Kelly, Padgett, Allen, and Bostrom will work within a new leadership structure, together with Physician-in-Chief S. Louis Bridges, MD, PhD, to support and ensure the highest standards in patient care, research, education,innovation, compliance, and quality control are upheld as HSS expands. Additionally, they will identify and support emerging initiatives focused on injury prevention, non-surgical and surgical care.

"Leading the world’s greatest concentration of medical talent in our field at this moment of unprecedented need and opportunity is a special responsibility and privilege," said Dr. Kelly. "Under Dr. Padgett’s leadership, Dr. Allen and Dr. Bostrom will help ensure HSS remains the best place in the world for patients to receive the care we provide, and the best place in the world for the most gifted medical providers to realize their potential."  

Specialized in orthopedics, rheumatology and related disciplines since 1863, HSS is today a world leader in research, innovation, and education.  It has been ranked no. 1 in orthopedics worldwide by Newsweek for the past three years, and nationwide by U.S. News & World Report for the past 14 years. US News & World Report also ranks HSS no. 2 in the nation for Rheumatology and a Best Hospital for Pediatric Orthopedics. 

In 2022, HSS provided care to 200,000 patients from all 50 states and 80 countries and performed more than 38,000 surgical procedures.  It provides continuing clinical education to more than 27,000 medical specialists in 165 countries.

"The success of an organization is connected to the strength and values of its leadership,” said Dr. Padgett, who was appointed the first Associate Surgeon-in-Chief and Deputy Medical Director at HSS in 2019. “I am honored to work alongside Answorth and Mathias, who are uniquely qualified to help further our mission and ensure we continue to provide the highest quality musculoskeletal care to all our patients.” 

Answorth A. Allen, MD

Dr. Allen, the medical director for HSS West Side, is a sports medicine orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder, knee, and elbow surgery, as well as a Professor of Clinical Orthopedic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC). He earned his medical degree from WCMC, completed residency programs at The New York Orthopaedic Hospital and Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center and did a fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh. He has authored over 150 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters on shoulder, knee, and elbow conditions.

“I am honored to be joining the medical leadership team at HSS, which is committed to delivering best-in-class healthcare experiences,” said Dr. Allen. “HSS has and will continue to grow exponentially, and I look forward to assisting in the next phase of advancement and excellence.” Dr. Allen will succeed Dr. Padgett as Deputy Medical Director.  

Dr. Allen is the team orthopedist for the New York Knicks professional men’s basketball team and an orthopedic consultant for the West Indies Cricket Board of Control. Previously, he has served as an assistant team physician for both the New York Saints lacrosse team and the New York State Racing Association; a staff physician for the New York State Athletic Commission and the Hunter Mountain Ski Sports Center; and an assistant team physician for the University of Pittsburgh and assistant company physician for the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre.

Mathias P. Bostrom, MD

In 2019, Dr. Bostrom was appointed chief of adult reconstruction and joint replacement at HSS, succeeding Dr. Padgett. He has authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications, been the principal investigator of NIH-funded research, and served as director of HSS Education and Academic Affairs since 2003. He has led the HSS Fellowship Program from 2002 to 2019 and its nationally top-ranked Residency Program from 2005 to 2019 and served as chief of the HSS Hip Service from 2014 to 2019.

“HSS is known for providing comprehensive and collaborative care to all our patients, and I am committed to building upon that legacy,” said Dr. Bostrom, who in addition to becoming Associate Surgeon-in-Chief will be appointed Director of Quality and Safety. “I am also grateful for this leadership opportunity, and I am excited to work alongside talented and remarkable teams to advance the field of musculoskeletal health.”

Dr. Bostrom specializes in hip and knee surgery, including complex reconstructions and treatment of musculoskeletal infections. A graduate of the University of Virginia and Johns Hopkins, he completed his residency and two fellowships at HSS before joining the faculty in 1996. Dr. Bostrom currently practices at the HSS main campus in New York City and sees patients at HSS Westchester. Dr. Bostrom is a member of the Hip Society, the Orthopaedic Research Society, and the International Society for Fracture Repair.

Drs. Allen and Bostrom will assume their new roles in the HSS Office of Medical Leadership on September 5, 2023.

“The leadership team have demonstrated outstanding stewardship qualities, and their concentration in executing key health and operational initiatives will continue to advance HSS as a recognized global leader in the healthcare market,” said Shapiro. “It’s an exciting time at HSS as leadership advances our Purpose: to help people get back to what they need and love to do, better than any other place in the world.”

A world-renowned surgeon, scientist and educator specializing in sports medicine and hip preservation, Dr. Kelly joined HSS in 1996 and since 2019 has served as Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director.  Those roles will transition to Douglas E. Padgett, MD, currently Associate Surgeon-in-Chief, when Dr. Kelly becomes CEO.

In a message to HSS staff today, Board of Trustees Co-Chairs Thomas H. Lister and Robert K. Steel expressed support for the timing of the transition in light of substantial progress made since January.

“Dr. Bryan T. Kelly leads the enterprise forward from a position of unprecedented strength and opportunity fostered under Lou’s 17 years of leadership,” said Lister and Steel. “HSS has blossomed from a great hospital into a system projecting knowledge, talent and impact far and wide, recognized as the world leader in its field. His greatest legacy may be the culture that has fueled leaps of vision, performance and resilience, and a daily pursuit of excellence by the most talented and dedicated people in every role. 

“During Lou’s tenure, HSS grew by more than 300 percent, substantially increased its footprint, dramatically improved its balance sheet, and enhanced its performance in virtually all metrics across clinical quality, patient experience, value, employee engagement, financial and market position. These achievements under Lou’s leadership, combined with his focus on culture and patient experience, have led HSS to be top-ranked in the nation for orthopedics and rheumatology the past 13 years.”

After a short break, Shapiro is expected to remain active in the healthcare field.  “I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to historic advancements at HSS, and am excited to explore my next chapter.”

Cassai will join HSS on August 14, reporting to President, Surgeon-in-Chief (SIC) and Medical Director Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA.  Dr. Kelly will add the title of Chief Executive later this year, with completion of phased transition with Louis A. Shapiro who is retiring from HSS following 17 years as president and CEO.  At that time, Dr. Kelly will be succeeded as SIC and Medical Director by Douglas E. Padgett, MD, who joined HSS as a Resident in 1985 as a decorated Battalion Surgeon in U.S. combat operations.

Cassai joins HSS from New York-Presbyterian, one of the world’s largest hospital systems, where during her 16-year tenure she advanced from an entry-level nursing position to the role of Senior Vice President of Perioperative Services, in which she was responsible for thousands of staff across 11 campuses, including 172 operating rooms.  She also led design and implementation for operational innovation and transformation, including the system’s vast and dynamic response to the COVID-19 crisis as well as changes to methods and systems leading to higher performance.  Cassai received a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Long Island University, a Master of Public Administration degree from New York University, and is a graduate of the Academy GE Fellows Program.  Throughout her career she has been a champion of diversity, equity, inclusion and empathetic collaboration.

HSS performs almost twice as many orthopedic surgeries than the next most popular hospital and 20 times more orthopedic surgeries than the average US hospital. HSS has the lowest readmission rates in the nation, and among the lowest infection and complication rates. HSS was the first hospital 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 over 20 facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut, in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, and in Florida.

HSS is the only hospital in North America designated by the World Economic Forum as a Global Innovation Hub for Value in Healthcare, and is a FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence.  Members of HSS’s medical staff serve as physicians for the athletic programs of several colleges and universities and numerous professional sports teams, including the New York Mets, New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets, New York Giants, New York Red Bulls, and New York Liberty.

In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation, and education and serves as a major teaching hospital in collaboration with Weill Cornell Medical College.

“Mary’s capability and character match this moment of historic opportunity for HSS to meet the demand for excellent musculoskeletal care,” said Dr. Kelly.  “I look forward to her partnership and leadership in advancing the operational excellence needed to ensure HSS is the best place for doctors and other clinicians to provide care, for patients to receive care, and for all colleagues to realize their full potential.”

“Mary joins a world-class leadership team configured to Dr. Kelly’s personal strengths and priorities and will help sustain continuing leadership and success for HSS well into the future,” said Shapiro.

“HSS is one of the most admirable organizations of any kind, and famously home to the most talented people committed to advancing excellence in every way,” said Cassai.  “I could not be more humbled and excited to help the organization and my new colleagues to become even better together."

Padgett is a world-renowned orthopedic surgeon, educator and researcher, focused on clinical outcomes, biomaterials, and the role of enabling technologies in joint reconstruction. He is Chief Emeritus of the Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Service at HSS, and a Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College. He was appointed Associate Surgeon-in-Chief at HSS in 2019, and is a former Board member of preeminent professional organizations including and The Hip Society, which he also served as President, and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons. Prior to his arrival at HSS as a Resident in 1985, Padgett earned the Naval Achievement Medal for meritorious service as a Battalion Surgeon in U.S. combat operations. 

Now in its 160^th year, HSS treats patients from more than 80 countries and all 50 States. It has been ranked no. 1 for orthopedics in the world for the past three years, and in the nation for the past 13 years. HSS has been top ranked for both orthopedics and rheumatology for the past 31 consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report. HSS performs 90% more orthopedic surgeries than the next leading hospital, but maintains the lowest readmission rates and among the lowest infection and complication rates in the nation.

“Dr. Padgett’s appointment is a milestone in the historic, phased leadership transition started last month,” said HSS Board co-chairs Thomas H. Lister and Robert K. Steel. “Together, Dr. Kelly, Dr. Padgett and the many other great leaders across the enterprise are poised to build upon the remarkable heritage of HSS to achieve even greater success for patients and impact on the field of musculoskeletal health.”

Kelly, who arrived at HSS as a Resident 27 years ago, will become the first surgeon to lead HSS as CEO when the transition is complete later this year. “Dr. Padgett has distinguished himself among the many giants in our field who call HSS home,” said Kelly, who added the title of President last month.  “I have appreciated the power of his example over many years, and look forward to further strengthening the impact of our close partnership in the years ahead.”

Shapiro said he views Padgett’s advancement to Surgeon-in-Chief later this year to be a capstone on his own legacy. During Shapiro’s tenure, HSS grew more than 300 percent, and improved its performance across clinical quality, patient experience, employee engagement, financially, and market positioning.

“Dr. Padgett was Chief of the Hip Service when I arrived at HSS in 2006, and since that time has emerged as a beacon of leadership and the values and purpose of the organization,” said Shapiro. “It has been my priority to leave the people and patients of HSS today and tomorrow in the very best of hands, and I can think of no leaders more able and worthy than Dr. Padgett and Dr. Kelly.”

“I am deeply humbled by this honor and responsibility, and mindful of the giants on whose shoulders I will stand and those with whom I am privileged to serve alongside,” said Padgett. “We will continue to advance the quality and reliability of patient outcomes, and the field of musculoskeletal health worldwide, through focused excellence in research, education, innovation and clinical care.”

Now in its 160^th year, HSS has for three consecutive years been ranked world No. 1 in orthopedics by Newsweek.  Since opening its first Florida campus in Palm Beach in 2020, HSS’s Florida presence has expanded to the west coast through a relationship with Naples-based NCH Health.  It has also broadened its delivery of musculoskeletal services to include a broad spectrum of operative and non-operative orthopedic care, injury prevention guidance to youth sports teams, performance services in collaboration with TB12, and workforce wellness support for employers throughout the State.

Ms. McCoy brings to HSS more than 20 years of healthcare and Florida leadership experience with Cleveland Clinic, Tenet Healthcare, among others. She most recently served as the Division Chief Executive of GenesisCare, a global provider of oncology services, overseeing the West Florida region. In her new role she will focus on expanding the acclaimed HSS musculoskeletal care throughout the Florida market.

Ms. McCoy will partner with world-renowned Douglas E. Padgett, MD, who as HSS Associate Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director oversees all aspects of clinical quality for HSS Florida.

“Tara’s appointment demonstrates the commitment to excellence and earned leadership that define the HSS approach to transforming healthcare,” said HSS President and CEO Louis A. Shapiro. “Exceptional talent and a strong sense of purpose is enabling us to build a unique healthcare delivery system focused solely on musculoskeletal health unlike anywhere else.”

“It is an honor to take on this new role and I look forward to expanding the reach and impact of HSS across the state of Florida,” said Ms. McCoy. “I am committed to utilizing my healthcare knowledge and Florida community experiences to continue building on the great work that has already begun.”

Ms. McCoy earned her bachelor’s degree from Tulane University and her master’s degree from the University of South Florida. In addition, she completed a one-year advanced certification course in managing healthcare delivery from Harvard University Business School.

“HSS has specialized in orthopedics for 160 years so that we can create better possibilities for quality of movement,” said Bryan T. Kelly, MD, MBA, surgeon-in-chief and medical director at HSS. “Tara’s extensive experience and proven leadership will help us to make HSS quality care more accessible to more people across the state of Florida.”

Mathias Bostrom, MD, to Succeed Padgett as Chief of Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Service

Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health, today announced the creation of an Office of Medical Leadership under the direction of incoming Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director Bryan T. Kelly, MD. The new structure will ensure the highest standards of quality in patient care, teaching, research, and innovation. The office will include a new position of Associate Surgeon-in-Chief and Deputy Medical Director.

HSS has been the nation’s top-ranked hospital for Orthopedics for the past nine consecutive years according to U.S.News & World Report, and is a world leader in research, innovation and education. HSS currently ranks third in the nation for Rheumatology, and as a Best Hospital for Pediatric Orthopedics. It provides continuing medical education to more than 27,000 medical specialists in 130 countries In 2018, HSS provided care to 135,000 patients from all 50 states and 80 countries, and performed more than 32,000 surgical procedures.

Douglas E. Padgett, MD, has been appointed the first Associate Surgeon-in-Chief and Deputy Medical Director at HSS. Dr. Padgett has served as chief of the Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Service (ARJR) at HSS since 2008. He will assume his new role on July 1, joining the HSS Office of Medical Leadership.

“HSS has earned the privilege and responsibility of making the highest quality musculoskeletal healthcare more widely available to people from all walks of life and all corners of the globe,” said Louis A. Shapiro, president and CEO. “Formation of the HSS Office of Medical Leadership, and Dr. Padgett’s appointment to join Dr. Kelly there, is the culmination of careful planning to equip HSS to further advance quality, value and impact.”

Last month HSS announced that Dr. Kelly will become Surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director on July 1, succeeding Todd J. Albert, MD. Dr. Albert will focus on his practice as a spine surgeon and other leadership activities within HSS, as the third actively serving Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus.

“HSS is at the forefront of driving high quality patient care and outstanding surgical outcomes primarily because of the unparalleled expertise, insight and experience of its medical staff,” said Dr. Kelly. “Dr. Padgett’s extensive experience and proven leadership will be valuable assets in this newly established role. I look forward to working with him closely to help advance HSS leadership.”

Together, Drs. Kelly and Padgett will work to further patient care, education, research and innovation, and ensure compliance, quality control measures and standards are upheld as HSS expands. They will also identify and support emerging initiatives that advance injury prevention, non-surgical care, and the reliability and efficiency of surgery when necessary.

“I am immensely excited about this opportunity to build on the strong foundation that currently exists,” explained Dr. Padgett. “HSS has a long-standing commitment to excellence and I’m honored to work with all the outstanding and talented physicians and colleagues to advance our history of delivering excellent patient care and service.”

Dr. Padgett joined HSS in 1993. He advanced to serve as chief of the HSS Hip Service from 2006 to 2014, and in 2008 became chief also of the HSS ARJR Service. Dr. Padgett has served on the Board and remains a member of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, and is a past president and current member of the Hip Society. He is also a member of the Knee Society and the International Hip Society. As a Battalion Surgeon in the early 1980s in Grenada and Lebanon, he was awarded the Naval Achievement Medal. He was also deployed to the Persian Gulf during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1991.

Long-time HSS Leader and Educator Bostrom to Succeed Padgett

Mathias P. Bostrom, MD, will succeed Dr. Padgett as chief of the ARJR Service at HSS on July 1. Dr. Bostrom has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed publications, been the principal investigator of NIH funded research, and served as director of HSS Education and Academic Affairs since 2003. He has led the HSS Fellowship Program since 2002, and its nationally top-ranked Residency Program since 2005, and has served as chief of the HSS Hip Service since 2014.

The ARJR service has been leading the field both in innovations and volume of hip and knee replacements since HSS physicians pioneered the first modern knee replacement over four decades ago. HSS surgeons now perform more than 10,000 hip and knee replacements each year, which is more than any other hospital in the nation.

“HSS is an academic medical center committed to training future generations of orthopedic surgeons,” said Dr. Padgett. “Our patients are able to benefit from our experience with the most complex cases, the latest treatment options and the newest technologies and most importantly, a strong team of clinicians. Dr. Bostrom is well suited to lead our service as we continue to provide superior outcomes to our patients.”

Dr. Bostrom specializes in hip and knee surgery including complex reconstructions and treatment of musculoskeletal infections. A graduate of University of Virginia and Johns Hopkins, he completed his residency and two fellowships at HSS before starting his medical practice there in 1996. Dr. Bostrom currently practices at the HSS main campus in New York City and also sees patients at HSS Westchester.

“I’m honored to take on this new opportunity, and dedicated to leading this talented team of surgeons as we continue to uncover innovative solutions for joint pain,” said Dr. Bostrom. “HSS is recognized as the leader in joint replacement and I look forward to continuing our mission to provide high-quality care and the best patient experience.”

Dr. Bostrom is a member of the Hip Society, the Orthopaedic Research Society, and the International Society for Fracture Repair.

“Dr. Bostrom is a distinguished physician leader at our organization and plays a major role in the HSS Education Institute especially with our Global Academic Partnerships and our residency and fellowship programs,” said Mr. Shapiro. “Dr. Bostrom personifies our tradition of enabling the most discerning students, physicians and researchers to advance their knowledge and skills while championing approaches to patient care and safety.”

Douglas E. Padgett, MD, chief of the adult reconstruction and joint replacement service at HSS, explained that during intake, he asks patients if they can walk a reasonable distance, if they're taking pain medication and if they continue to exercise. 

For those who have continual resting pain, joint replacement surgery can be a "no-brainer", according to Dr. Padgett.

Survey data has revealed that as many as 15-20 percent of knee replacement patients are less than satisfied after surgery, compared to only 5-7 percent after hip replacements.

The article noted that HSS uses a new computer-based tool that can predict a patient's satisfaction rate three to six months after surgery and considers factors such as age, socio-economic status, body mass index, social history, marital status and overall psycho-social health.

"It helps you make a decision on whether now is the right time to consider this intervention," said Dr. Padgett. "I think it's an extremely powerful tool."

Read the full article at PalmBeachDailyNews.com. This also appeared in the April 8, 2018 print edition.

Additional Coverage:

• Becker's Spine Review: Time to do some soul searching — 15% of patients less satisfied after knee replacement procedures

The research was published in the journal Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research (CORR) in the January issue.

"Although many institutions utilize group classes for preoperative education, it has been reported that up to 77% of patients have unfulfilled knowledge expectations with respect to their postoperative function," said lead investigator Rupali Soeters, PT, MEd, PhD, research therapist, HSS Rehabilitation. "Knowledge is power. Supplemental one-on-one education gives joint replacement patients more information about what to expect and can allay some of their concerns."

The educational sessions at HSS are customized to address a patient's specific needs regarding preparation before surgery and what to expect in the hospital, during rehabilitation and throughout recovery. "The difference between a group class and one-on-one education is that the private session gives the patient an opportunity to practice mobility and assistive devices before surgery, discuss concerns and questions in a private environment, and set realistic goals regarding outcomes with the therapist," Dr. Soeters explained.

"After surgery, patients may be dealing with issues such as fatigue, discomfort or anxiety, and it may not be the most opportune time to give them information about the road ahead," said Amar Ranawat, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at HSS and senior study author. "With the face-to-face information session and user-friendly website, they can receive and retain much of the information prior to surgery. Many patients feel more confident knowing what to expect."

Dr. Ranawat adds that researchers are increasingly studying the feasibility of knee and hip replacement as outpatient procedures, and pre-operative education may be one way to prepare patients for earlier discharge.

"The educational session jumpstarts patients’ familiarity with what they are going to experience after surgery, easing some of their fears and apprehensions," said Douglas Padgett, MD, chief of the Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Service at HSS.

In the study, researchers followed 126 patients who underwent knee or hip replacement for osteoarthritis between February and June 2015. All attended a group education class before surgery, the standard of care for patients scheduled for a joint replacement at Hospital for Special Surgery. They were then randomized into two separate groups. The mean age in both groups was 61.

In group one, 63 patients attended the one-on-one education session with a physical therapist about two weeks before surgery, in addition to the group class. After the session, they were given access to a customized website, so they had a wealth of information at their fingertips both before and after surgery. The microsites were highly customized to each procedure, even taking into account which side the surgery was on. Accessible on computers, cell phones and tablets, the sites provided detailed information on precautions after surgery, exercises, ambulation, and activities of daily living through videos, pictures and text.

The control group of 63 patients attended the standard group class and received a booklet about what to expect after joint replacement. They received no further education.

Researchers analyzed how quickly patients achieved physical therapy goals after surgery; how long they were in the hospital; and how they were progressing four to six weeks after joint replacement in terms of pain, stiffness and physical function.

Patients with access to one-on-one education and the microsite achieved physical therapy goals more quickly after surgery. They needed fewer physical therapy sessions in the hospital (3.3 sessions) versus the control group (4.4 sessions). The group receiving one-on-one education also met PT discharge criteria sooner (1.6 days versus 2.7 days for the control group). This included the ability to get in and out of bed, walk with or without an assistive device about 150 feet, and go up and down stairs independently. Researchers found no difference in pain and function six weeks out from surgery.

Hospital length of stay was the same for both groups. "Length of stay is impacted by a number of factors, not just physical therapy," Dr. Padgett noted. "Even if patients reach their physical therapy goals, they must still be deemed medically ready for discharge by the entire patient care team, and all aspects of their medical health are taken into account."

"The study highlights the need for improvement in other aspects of care if we want to decrease length of stay," Dr. Soeters said.

Researchers found that every patient granted access to the microsite used the platform at least once during the surgical process. In addition, 100% of these patients said they would recommend the microsites to all individuals having joint replacement.

At Hospital for Special Surgery, the face-to-face educational program and custom microsites are available to patients having knee replacement, partial knee replacement, hip replacement and shoulder replacement. A special website for ankle replacement is currently in development.

Additional Coverage:

• Becker's Hospital Review: Pre-op physical therapy education key to quicker recovery in joint patients, study finds
• Doctor's Lounge: Pre-Op PT Education Speeds Functional Milestones Post TJA