#United States #Rosemont #Zimmer Biomet #OREF #Ivan Tornos

Ivan Tornos Joins OREF Board of Trustees

In a significant advancement for musculoskeletal research, Ivan Tornos, the Chairman, President, and CEO of Zimmer Biomet, has been appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation (OREF). This addition is seen as a vital move toward enhancing funding and visibility for musculoskeletal (MSK) research, an area that has substantial impact on public health yet often lacks appropriate financial support.

A Leader in Musculoskeletal Health

Ivan Tornos has been a pivotal figure at Zimmer Biomet since 2018, taking on roles that include Group President and Chief Operating Officer before becoming CEO in 2023. As a company renowned for its innovative solutions in musculoskeletal health, Zimmer Biomet's leadership under Tornos has aimed at improving patient outcomes and driving advancements in orthopedic care. With Tornos now on the OREF board, the organization anticipates leveraging his expertise and resources to push for greater investment in MSK research.

Collaborative Efforts for Patient Care

Joshua J. Jacobs, MD, President of the OREF Board, expressed enthusiasm about Tornos' appointment, stating the historical collaboration between OREF and Zimmer Biomet reflects a strong commitment to enhancing patient care. He believes Tornos’ presence will not only raise awareness about the importance of MSK research but also emphasize the need for increased funding in this critical area.

Tornos shares this sentiment, stating, “I am thrilled to be joining the OREF board. Now more than ever, it’s important we move with a sense of urgency and deep purpose to ensure that musculoskeletal research advances at a much faster pace…” His commitment to tackle existing gaps in research funding aligns with OREF's mission to improve patient care through innovative research and development.

The Growing Burden of MSK Conditions

In the United States, conditions related to musculoskeletal diseases affect over half of the adult population, causing an economic burden estimated at $980 billion annually. Despite this daunting statistic, funding for musculoskeletal issues remains disproportionately low compared to other health concerns. This gap in funding highlights the critical role organizations like OREF play in advocating for research funding that can improve lives.

OREF stands out in the MSK research community not only for its funding initiatives but also for its success in securing additional resources from government bodies like the NIH. As detailed in recent research published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, OREF grant recipients show a higher likelihood of obtaining further NIH funding compared to other applicants, underscoring the effectiveness of their funding strategies.

Commitment to Advancement

The collaboration between OREF and Zimmer Biomet is set to stimulate vital research that can lead to groundbreaking solutions for patients dealing with musculoskeletal conditions. Through this partnership, both organizations aim to enhance clinical practice, improve patient outcomes, and elevate the standards of care available to those affected by MSK issues.

Overall, Tornos' inclusion in OREF's Board of Trustees is expected to accelerate efforts towards addressing the pressing need for resources in musculoskeletal research, ensuring that innovative solutions can reach patients much more swiftly.

For more information about OREF and its initiatives in musculoskeletal health research, visit oref.org.