Tenet Healthcare (Tenet) and United Surgical Partners International (USPI) are foundational sponsors of the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) inaugural Launchpad Program. This strategic collaboration underscores a shared commitment to supporting early-career orthopedic surgeons and driving transformative solutions in musculoskeletal healthcare.

“This sponsorship marks a significant step forward in our mission to empower the next generation of orthopaedic surgeons,” said Anthony Priore, chief marketing, communications, and membership officer at AAOS. “The commitment shown by Tenet and USPI reinforces the value of investing in education, innovation, and long-term excellence in musculoskeletal care.”

The AAOS Launchpad Program is a 20-month initiative designed to guide postgraduate year 5 (PGY5) orthopedic surgery residents through the critical transition from residency to practice. The program equips participants with tools to navigate fellowship, prepare for Parts I and II of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery examination, and build a strong foundation for long-term success.

“At Tenet, we believe that investing in orthopedic surgeons early in their careers is essential to advancing patient care and innovation in musculoskeletal health,” stated Philipp Ludwig, president, Tenet Physician Resources. “Partnering with AAOS on the Launchpad Program allows us to help ensure the next generation of physicians will thrive in today’s evolving healthcare landscape.”

AAOS Launchpad was introduced as a pilot program at the AAOS Annual Meeting in March (San Diego) and will continue with three cohorts of PGY5 resident member participants over the next three and a half years. Launchpad is designed with scalability in mind. After the pilot phase, AAOS intends to expand the program to include all PGY5 and PGY4 residents.

Tenet Healthcare Corporation is a diversified healthcare services company headquartered in Dallas. Its care delivery network includes United Surgical Partners International, the largest U.S. ambulatory platform, which operates ambulatory surgery centers and surgical hospitals. The firm also operates a national portfolio of acute care and specialty hospitals, other outpatient facilities, a network of employed physicians, and a global business center in Manila, Philippines. Tenet’s Conifer Health Solutions subsidiary provides revenue cycle management and value-based care services to hospitals, health systems, physician practices, employers, and other clients.

With more than 39,000 members, AAOS is the world’s largest medical association of musculoskeletal specialists. The Association advances musculoskeletal health, providing comprehensive education to help orthopedic surgeons and allied health professionals at every career level best treat patients. AAOS is the source for information on bone and joint conditions, treatments, and related musculoskeletal health care issues; and it leads the healthcare discussion on advancing quality.