Newswise — MAYWOOD, Il. - Steve M. Gnatz, MD, MHA, director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Loyola University Medical Center, has begun a two-year term as president of the U. S. Bone and Joint Initiative (USBJI).
The multidisciplinary initiative focuses on improving the quality of life of people with bone and joint disorders, as well as research, prevention and education.
“We are tremendously proud that Dr. Gnatz has been selected for this important leadership role,” said Terry Light, MD, chair of Loyola’s Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation.
Musculoskeletal [bone and joint] conditions cost an estimated $849 billion per year in the United States. Gnatz said that as president, he will have an opportunity to work with many diverse organizations committed to maximizing health and minimizing pain and disabilities associated with musculoskeletal disorders.
“By helping to provide better diagnosis, treatment, education, and support, USBJI is in a unique position to better the human condition," Gnatz said. “I look forward to being a part of that movement."
Dr. Gnatz said his priorities include gaining a better understanding of members’ interests and looking for ways to serve those interests while advancing USBJI’s mission.
The USBJI recently launched the Chronic Osteoarthritis Management Initiative (COAMI) Work Group to help change and improve the current approach to managing osteoarthritis. Work Group members identified seven priority actions. In November, the USBJI will sponsor a Musculoskeletal Summit in Washington, D.C. The theme is “Best Practices in Patient-Centered Musculoskeletal Care.”
Gnatz went to medical school at the University of Illinois College of Medicine and did his residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Baylor University College of Medicine. His special interests include musculoskeletal medicine, electrodiagnostic medicine and rehabilitation.
Gnatz came to Loyola in 2004. He is Division Director, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Medical Director of Rehabilitation Services.He lives in Wheaton, Il.
For more information on USBJI and its programs, visit www.usbji.org.
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