Making the grade: AdventHealth Waterman earns an 'A' for orthopedic surgery

AdventHealth Waterman has been named one of the top hospitals in the United States for orthopedic surgery, earning an “A” rating in Money magazine’s first-ever national ranking dedicated to the specialty.

Only 75 hospitals across the country received this distinction, placing the Tavares-based facility among an elite group recognized for high-quality orthopedic care.

Money developed the rankings in partnership with the Leapfrog Group, analyzing data on surgical outcomes, infection rates, hospital transparency and patient satisfaction. The goal: identify hospitals delivering safe, effective, and consistently high-quality orthopedic care.

“This honor reflects the commitment and expertise of our entire orthopedic team,” said Dr. Donald Perry, AdventHealth Waterman orthopedic surgeon. “Every procedure represents a person’s hope to move better, live independently, and enjoy daily life again. That’s the purpose behind our work, and this recognition is a meaningful validation of that purpose.”

The orthopedic team at AdventHealth Waterman performs a range of procedures, from joint replacements to fracture repairs. But it’s not just technical skills that stand out. According to physicians, what sets the team apart is a thoughtful, patient-centered approach that considers how mobility affects everything from hobbies to home life.

“For many patients, orthopedic surgery means more than healing. It means getting back to the things that make life meaningful,” added Perry. “Whether it’s walking the dog or kneeling in a garden bed, we tailor each plan to help patients return to the activities they enjoy most.”

The “A” rating highlights the hospital’s consistent focus on quality, safety and a personal approach to care bringing nationally recognized orthopedic surgery close to home for residents of Lake and Sumter counties.