Step 1: Research a Career

Question

Choose a career in the orthopedics fields to research.
Use sources such as:
• Nationwide Children's Hospital

Step 2: Create a Career Bio
Find a video to watch or an article to read about someone in your chosen health career.
Write up a short biography of the person featured in your article/video.
Be sure to include:
• A description of the career
• Any education mentioned for the career
• What makes that career socially important
• Link to your source(s)
Step 3: Write a Referral Letter
Imagine that you are a healthcare provider who is referring a patient to this specialist. This will require some online research into possible conditions that your chosen specialist might treat. Write a letter of referral, explaining the patient's issue. Make sure that you use medical terms to describe where and how the patient is having issues with their movement.
Ask for the specialist's opinion to help you diagnose the patient or create a care plan.

Answer 1

Step 1: Research a Career

For this exercise, I have chosen to research the career of a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues in children, ranging from congenital deformities to injuries and developmental disorders.

The Nationwide Children's Hospital is a notable resource that offers various insights into the field of pediatric orthopedics, including the conditions treated, advancements in technology, and educational pathways.

Step 2: Create a Career Bio

Career Bio: Dr. Sarah Johnson, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Sarah Johnson is a dedicated Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. She specializes in treating various musculoskeletal conditions in children, including scoliosis, limb deformities, and sports-related injuries. Dr. Johnson is passionate about improving children's quality of life through innovative surgical techniques and comprehensive care plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

Dr. Johnson earned her medical degree from the Stanford University School of Medicine, followed by a residency in Orthopedic Surgery at Harvard Medical School and a fellowship in Pediatric Orthopedics at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. She continuously engages in professional development and research to stay ahead in her field, reflecting her commitment to delivering the highest standard of care.

The role of a pediatric orthopedic surgeon is socially important as it addresses the unique needs of children, ensuring they can lead active, healthy lives despite any musculoskeletal challenges they may face. By focusing on the growth and development of children, Dr. Johnson’s work helps prevent long-term disabilities and promotes overall well-being among her patients.

Link to Source: Nationwide Children's Hospital - Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery

Step 3: Write a Referral Letter

[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Hospital/Practice Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]

[Date]

Dr. Sarah Johnson
Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon
Nationwide Children's Hospital
700 Children's Drive
Columbus, OH 43205

Dear Dr. Johnson,

I am writing to refer a patient, Charlie Thompson, a 10-year-old male, who presents with persistent right knee pain and limited mobility, particularly upon ambulation and during physical activity. The pain has progressively worsened over the past two months, characterized as a dull ache that intensifies with physical exertion and has been accompanied by mild swelling.

Upon examination, the right knee displayed restricted range of motion, particularly in flexion, and tenderness localized to the medial aspect of the joint. There is also a noticeable limp, which has prompted concern regarding potential underlying issues. Radiographic imaging showed some irregularities, and while we suspect an overuse injury or possibly patellar tendonitis, further evaluation by a specialist would provide a more comprehensive diagnosis and assist in formulating an effective treatment plan.

I would appreciate your expert opinion regarding Charlie's condition and any additional investigations you might recommend. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your insights.

Best regards,

[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
[Signature, if sending a printed letter]