Fairbanks, October 25, 2023 - Foundation Health Partners (FHP) is excited to introduce a dynamic duo to the new FHP Orthopedic & Spine Specialists clinic. Stewart Kerr, MD, an esteemed orthopedic surgeon and decorated combat veteran, will be joined by the talented physician assistant, Shannon Dieffenderfer, PA-C. Previously serving the Anchorage and Seattle areas, their relocation to Fairbanks presents an exciting opportunity for the community to access state-of-the-art, comprehensive orthopedic and spinal surgery right here in the Interior.

The much-anticipated opening of the FHP Orthopedic & Spine Specialists Clinic is scheduled for Wednesday, November 1. Under Dr. Kerr's guidance, the clinic will provide a complete range of services, including neck and spine surgeries, joint replacements, complete musculoskeletal trauma care, and non-surgical interventions for common orthopedic conditions.

Dr. Kerr shared, "I'm eager to join Foundation Health Partners and the Fairbanks community. FHP’s collaborative approach and shared commitment to quality care deeply resonate with me."

Dr. Kerr, recognized as Seattle Met's top doctor for the past three consecutive years, boasts a remarkable background. Following his first fellowship at the renowned Rothman Institute in Philadelphia, where he specialized in complex spinal procedures, Dr. Kerr entered a second fellowship in orthopedic trauma and reconstruction at the University of California San Fransisco. He also served as an AO Spine faculty member and contributed to numerous publications and textbook chapters.

Prior to medical school, Dr. Kerr served as an active-duty Navy SEAL and paramedic. He later became a team surgeon for elite military units such as the Army Rangers, Delta Force, and SEAL teams, gaining invaluable experience in providing surgical support during sensitive missions in Somalia, Afghanistan, and Iraq.

Working in partnership, Shannon Dieffenderfer, PA-C, supports Dr. Kerr as his first assist in the operating room and as they co-manage patients in the clinic. Ms. Dieffenderfer, who previously worked as a family medicine provider and urgent care specialist in rural Alaska, brings a diverse background that complements their holistic, personalized approach to patient care.

"The arrival of this team is a transformative moment for our community," said Angelique Ramirez, MD, FHP Chief Medical Officer. "It eliminates the burden of traveling long distances for specialized orthopedic and spinal surgery, ensuring that patients can access treatment and recover close to home, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes."

Patients interested in scheduling appointments at the FHP Orthopedic & Spine Specialists Clinic can contact the clinic directly at (907) 459-3545 . The clinic is conveniently located in the William H. Doolittle building at 1919 Lathrop St., Suite 105. For more information and to learn about the services offered, please visit our website at foundationhealth.org/orthopedics.

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Media Contact:

Public.relations@foundationhealth.org

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