Redefining the "Community" Surgeon: My Perspective on Community Orthopaedics

Description

In this introductory presentation at a symposium on redefining community surgeons, Glen Richardson shares his personal and professional journey in orthopedic surgery. He recounts his training at Duke University, followed by specialized fellowships in sports medicine in Canada. Glen describes his initial general practice in Saint John, New Brunswick, where he worked on a wide range of procedures including trauma and arthroplasties before transitioning to a more academic role in Halifax with a focus on hip and knee arthroplasty.



He reflects on the evolution of community surgery, highlighting the transformation from a generalist model to one that increasingly accommodates subspecialties, illustrated by the growth in practices in communities such as New Glasgow. Glen discusses the intertwining nature of community and academic practices in Nova Scotia, emphasizing the need for better distribution of medical education and training in community settings.



Additionally, he touches on the complexities of resident education that is heavily focused on generalist training, which may not adequately prepare them for modern community practice challenges. Addressing the shifting landscapes in healthcare, Glen advocates for a reevaluation of definitions and roles within orthopedic surgery, suggesting a need to embrace a more fluid understanding that blurs the lines between community and academic surgeons.

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