Dear colleagues ,
We are thrilled to present this publication , which highlights our history as well as our current accomplishments and areas of focus . The pandemic has been difficult for many , particularly for those in health care . The demands on institutions , physicians , nurses , and other staff have been profound . COVID-19 affected our care delivery and all aspects of our mission .
Despite these challenges , you will see that the UAB Department of Orthopaedic Surgery has continued to grow our clinical and academic programs . This is a tremendous testimony to the hard work and dedication of our faculty , trainees , and staff . They , along with our administrative leaders and institutional partners , have continued to identify opportunities for expansion .
Clinically , we offer programs in all subspecialties . They are led by our subspecialtytrained faculty and consist of integrated care teams designed to serve the diverse needs of our patients . Our clinical expertise allows us to care for the most complex orthopaedic conditions , as well as more common pathologies .
In addition to our outstanding clinical care , we also educate and train the physicians and surgeons of the future . The cornerstone of our educational activities is our residency program . Surrounded by a culture of mentorship and comradery , our residents receive diverse training , all within the confines of our campus . We also have clinical fellowships in five subspecialties , which is a testament to the reputation of our programs and faculty .
Finally , we have a growing research enterprise that maintains a primary focus on patient outcomes . Our research teams take full advantage of our diverse patient populations and collaborations with other institutions to discover novel clinical treatments and protocols .
I am immensely proud of the work done by everyone associated with our department . It is truly the result of teamwork , patient-centeredness , and passion . Our future is bright , and we look forward to the new frontiers ahead in our clinical , educational , and research efforts .
Steven M . Theiss , M . D . John D . Sherrill Chair of Orthopaedic Surgery Professor & Chair , Department of Orthopaedic Surgery