AAOS: Communities In Motion

Rothman Orthopaedic Institute Spine Surgeon, Dr. Alan Hilibrand, has served as Chair of the Communications Cabinet for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons for three years. The Communications Cabinet’s main goal is to raise awareness and publicize the good works of the Academy. We caught up with him last week at the Academy’s annual meeting for a quick Q&A.

Dr. Hilibrand, what is the role of the Communications Cabinet?

Alan Hilibrand, M.D.: The cabinet’s main role is to handle all public relations duties for the Academy. We produce public service announcements, pick the Humanitarian Award Winner at the meeting, and organize Communities in Motion events.

What is Communities in Motion?

AH: Communities in Motion is a program where members of the Academy head out into local neighborhoods to promote physical fitness. We hold a series of events focusing on movement – stretching, cardio, and strength conditioning – in an effort to promote bone health.It is very popular and we are looking forward to expanding the program as we move forward.

How does your involvement with the Communications Cabinet benefit Rothman Orthopaedic Institute patients?

AH: I believe when orthopedics is seen in a positive light then Rothman Orthopaedic Institute is seen in a positive light. Our patients benefit because myself and several of my colleagues at Rothman are involved in these big national initiatives. The decisions we make here have ramifications for orthopedic patients around the world. We are pleased to be thought-leaders in advancing the field of orthopedics and those advancements trickle down to our patients immediately.