Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee, part of the Williamson Health regional healthcare system, is no stranger to the importance of community. Williamson County may be growing, but the tight-knit community culture that makes patients feel more like family still remains. To ensure this unique environment continues to thrive for years to come, Bone and Joint Institute is committed to giving back to the community by investing in the futures of our youngest generation.

The orthopaedic group strongly believes in the importance of high-quality medical care for student-athletes, enabling them to be the best version of themselves both on and off the field. For this reason, Bone and Joint Institute strives to offer a multitude of preventive and rehabilitative services to Williamson County Schools at no cost to the schools.

Sports Medicine Coverage

Bone and Joint Institute’s athletic training program, in partnership with Williamson Health, provides certified athletic trainers from the two organizations to every Williamson County public high school, delivering comprehensive sports medicine coverage for all student-athletes at their respective schools. These athletic trainers are present on campus for all practices and home games, covering 23 TSSAA varsity sports, to provide care in case of injuries.

This service, which costs Williamson Health and Bone and Joint Institute nearly $825,000 per year and is provided free of charge to Williamson County Schools, serves more than 7,500 student-athletes annually. This past year, ten Williamson Health and Bone and Joint Institute athletic trainers covered more than 2,500 home games across nine high schools in the county. 

Additionally, Bone and Joint Institute orthopaedists serve as the team physicians at each school, generously offering their time and talents as part of their commitment to care for local athletes. Williamson Health also provides on-site Emergency Medical Services for every high school’s home varsity football games.

“Being a team physician is such a rewarding experience and allows me to combine my interest in sports with my passion for helping others,” said Scott Arthur, M.D., Bone and Joint Institute orthopaedic surgeon and Brentwood High School team physician. “Our top priority is the athlete’s safety, but establishing open communication and a foundational relationship throughout the recovery process is vitally important to their long-term success.”

Sports Physicals 

Even before the athletes attend their first practice, Bone and Joint Institute helps them prepare for the season ahead by offering sports physicals for ninth through twelfth-grade athletes each year. For a small out-of-pocket cost to families, students can receive a physical at the conveniently located Bone and Joint Institute’s main campus. These examinations clear students to participate in school-affiliated athletics and provide peace of mind for the athletes and their families. 

“We served hundreds of athletes at our sports physicals event last year,” said Dr. Arthur. “It’s fantastic to see such eager athletes, and it’s comforting to know that these kids are entering a new school year and athletic season as healthy as they can be.”

Continuity of Care

In addition to giving their time and expertise to these local athletes, Bone and Joint Institute and Williamson Health make annual donations to each county high school’s athletic program to ensure they have the proper supplies and resources to stay healthy and competitive.

Williamson Health and Bone and Joint Institute providers make valuable contributions to Williamson County School athletic programs, ensuring these young athletes have access to exceptional healthcare close to home. Not only are these medical professionals concerned with the athletes’ physical health, but they are also invested in their overall well-being. From pre-season parent meetings and post-game evaluations, these providers are there every step of the way—on the sidelines and beyond.

“The best part about being a team physician is watching an athlete who’s been on a long recovery journey get back to the sport they love the most,” said Dr. Arthur. “Getting to know the kids on a personal level and watching them succeed in the world even outside of athletics makes me proud to be a part of this amazing community and give back to it in this way.”