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U.S. Orthopaedic Partners Unifies Mississippi's Orthopaedic Landscape

In a groundbreaking move for the healthcare community in Mississippi, U.S. Orthopaedic Partners (USOP) has brought together several well-respected orthopedic institutions under a single brand—Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center (MSMOC). This merger is set to take effect on August 4, 2025, and aims to enhance the quality of orthopedic care across the state.

The newly formed entity will consist of 32 physicians along with 33 advanced practice providers, operating from 18 locations throughout Mississippi. This makes it the largest orthopedic network in the state, and one of the most formidable in the Southeastern region of the United States. By consolidating under a single name, USOP not only aims to streamline patient care but also to strengthen collaborative efforts across different specialties within orthopedics.

Dr. Kurre Luber, an orthopedic surgeon and team physician for Ole Miss Athletics, emphasized that this initiative is about reinforcing the identity of these organizations, rather than changing them. “We’re not changing who we are—we’re reinforcing it,” he stated. This sentiment was echoed by other physicians involved in the merger, who see the unification as a natural progression that will ultimately benefit patients and enhance care delivery.

Shared Values and Commitment to Care

The decision to unify the practices reflects a long-standing alignment in clinical standards and a commitment to community-based care among the participating organizations. MSMOC, founded in Jackson in 1984, is known for its subspecialized orthopedic care and innovative surgical techniques. The merging partners, Oxford Ortho Sports Medicine and the Orthopaedic Institute of North Mississippi (OINMS), also carry strong reputations in their communities for excellence in various orthopedic fields, including sports medicine and joint care.

Dr. J.R. Woodall, a spine surgeon at MSMOC and chair of the USOP board, noted the mutual respect that has always existed among these groups. The collaboration under a single, trusted brand will not only simplify referral processes for healthcare providers but will also empower the teams involved. “It became clear that working under a single brand wasn’t just logical—it was better for patients, clearer for referring providers, and empowering for our teams,” he remarked.

Enhancing Patient Experience

For patients, the impact of this merger promises to be significant. They will continue to receive care from the same trusted physicians at the same locations. However, the new unified brand will provide them with improved access to a broader network of specialists and support systems for detailed care. This access includes enhanced research opportunities and shared innovations that can result in better treatment outcomes.

Aaron McKevitt, the senior director of marketing and growth at USOP, highlighted the advantages of the branding shift. “From a branding perspective, this alignment simplifies the patient experience and strengthens our visibility in a competitive healthcare market,” he explained. The change is designed to communicate to Mississippi communities that the very best orthopedic care can be accessed locally and in a coordinated manner.

Commitment to Independence

One of the core missions of U.S. Orthopaedic Partners is to empower physician-led organizations, fostering growth while preserving independence. The recent merger is part of a strategic initiative that aims to build one of the most integrated and high-performing orthopedic networks in the nation. This decision, which originated from the physicians themselves, illustrates a deep commitment to collaborative care and a shared vision of providing the best service to patients.

As the Mississippi healthcare market evolves, USOP continues to prioritize partnerships that enhance care and foster a progressive approach to orthopedic solutions. With this merger, they reinforce their position as leaders in the field, dedicated to both patient satisfaction and excellence in orthopedic practice.

For more information on USOP and their services, visit us-orthopartners.com.