NW Health Bentonville unveils new orthopedic and spine center

Northwest Health System will unveil a new orthopedic and spine center at its Bentonville hospital at its official dedication slated for 10 a.m. on Sept. 24.

“Northwest Health System hospitals that offer orthopedics are accredited by The Joint Commission for total joints and have given us their gold seal of approval,” said Sharif Omar, CEO of Northwest Health System.

The new 6,200-square-foot center is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of total joint patients undergoing hip or knee replacement  or spine surgery. The center also was created and designed with the intent of having family members included in the recovery.

“Everything is covered before you leave,” said Dr. Chris Dougherty, board certified and fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon. “We teach patients and loved ones how and what to do in order to recover at home so less people end up going to a rehab facility. It is a private experience that involves the patient and family."

Patients enroll in a pre-surgery education class designed to prepare the patient and their family or caregiver for recovery at home. The class covers everything from arranging their environment to caring for their new joint.
 

Northwest Health also said it recently added Dr. Charles Nalley, orthopedic surgeon to their staff as they develop their orthopedic and spine care services.