What’s New at VCU Health?

By Seth Cheatham, MD

Stephen Kates, MD

Dr. Stephen Kates, MD, began his term as Chairman of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery in November 2015. Kates comes to VCU from the University of Rochester where he was the Hansjörg Wyss Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and the associate director for the Center for Musculoskeletal Research, a top-ranked orthopaedic laboratory. After earning his medical degree from Northwestern University Medical School, he completed his residency training at Northwestern University and the University of Rochester. Kates, an internationally recognized thought leader in geriatric fracture care, developed the Geriatric Fracture Center Model of Care, which has been emulated by many hospitals in the U.S., U.K., Europe, Latin America and Asia. In addition, he serves as the orthopaedic leader of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program and American College of Surgeons nationally focused registry on hip fractures.

VCU Medical Center has been recognized as the No. 1 hospital in Virginia and the Richmond metro area by U.S.News & World Report for 2015-16. Furthermore, the VCU Department of Orthopaedic Surgery was ranked the #34 program in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for 2015-16.

We are also very excited to announce that the Neuroscience, Orthopaedic, and Wellness Center located in Short Pump is now open. This concept in patient care is truly unique in the state of Virginia. It offers a true “patient-centered” approach. From the moment you enter the door, you’re the focus of our attention. We have self-rooming which means no more waiting rooms. Your team comes to you. We even have new locating software that allows staff to watch your progress throughout your visit – making sure your appointment time is smooth and efficient. In addition to physician visits, we offer diagnostic testing, infusion therapy, laboratory services, medical imaging, performance enhancement and physical rehabilitation including physical, occupational and speech therapy. Expert physicians and other providers work as a team to make sure that your care is well coordinated and integrated. You can see all your providers and receive services on the same day, at the same location. Our multidisciplinary teams include: Joint Health, Sports Medicine and Performance, Spine Health, Epilepsy, Headache, Pain Management, Movement Disorders, MS and Demyelinating Disorders, Neurological Health, and Neuromuscular Disorders.