The Tennessee Orthopaedic Society (TOS) welcomed approximately 50 members to its 2026 Annual Meeting, held July 31-Aug. 1 at the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs. The two-day meeting brought together orthopaedic surgeons and healthcare leaders from across Tennessee for educational sessions, legislative discussions, networking opportunities and recognition of excellence within the profession.
The meeting featured expert-led presentations and interactive discussions addressing issues affecting orthopaedic practice and patient care. Attendees also had the opportunity to earn continuing medical education credit while connecting with colleagues and industry partners.
A highlight of the meeting was the special panel discussion, “Inside the Fight: Tennessee’s Insurance Reform Battle and What’s Next!” The session brought together State Rep. Dan Howell, Sen. Bo Watson, TOS legislative advocates, representatives from the Tennessee Medical Association and other physician leaders to discuss the effort behind SB 2155/HB 2619. Panelists provided an inside look at the development of the legislation, the coalition supporting reform, the challenges it faced during the legislative process and opportunities for future advocacy related to prior authorization, insurer downcoding, claims transparency and payment accountability.
Members also gathered Friday evening for the TOS Annual Meeting Reception, which featured cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres and a live performance by country artist Paulina Jayne. The reception provided an opportunity for members, exhibitors and industry partners to connect in a relaxed setting while enjoying an evening of entertainment.
The annual meeting also featured a special luncheon presentation by Dr. Ben Comedy, an orthopaedic surgeon and stand-up comedian. His presentation offered attendees a humorous look at medicine and provided a welcome opportunity to relax and enjoy time with colleagues.
Resident Poster Contest Recognizes Emerging Orthopaedic Research
The Resident Poster Contest highlighted the research and clinical work being conducted by the next generation of orthopaedic physicians. Five residents were recognized for their research presentations:
Matthew Wideman, MD
Clinical Outcomes of Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty versus Rotator Cuff Repair in Patients 60 Years or Older Involving 3 Tendon Tears: A Matched Cohort Analysis
Andrew Winsauer, MD
“Code Cord” Expedited MRI Pathway Improves Time Sensitive Care for Emergent Cervical Spine Conditions at a Level I Trauma Center
Abe Diviney, MD
One Less Step: Simplifying Lag by Technique with Utilization of a Step Drill Bit
Shelby Meckstroth, MD
Preoperative Albumin and Fusion Extent as Key Predictors of Surgical Site Infection After Posterior Cervical Fusion
Rebekah Kleinsmith, MD
The Impact and Burden of Prior Authorization Delays and Denials for Repair of Acute Rotator Cuff Tears
The poster competition provided residents with an opportunity to share their work with practicing physicians and colleagues while showcasing research addressing surgical techniques, clinical outcomes, patient care pathways and healthcare policy.
TOS Honors Dr. Ken Moore
One of the most meaningful moments of the annual meeting was the presentation of the 2026 Distinguished Orthopaedic Surgeon Award to Ken Moore, MD. TOS President Eric N. Bowman, MD, presented the Society’s prestigious honor in recognition of Dr. Moore’s distinguished career as an orthopaedic surgeon, physician leader, public servant and advocate for community health.
Dr. Moore’s career has spanned nearly three decades in orthopaedic surgery. He served as Chief of Staff at Maury Regional Hospital and held leadership positions with the Tennessee Orthopaedic Society, Tennessee Hand Society and Clinical Orthopaedic Society. He also served on the Board of Councilors for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Following his clinical career, Dr. Moore continued his commitment to medicine through teaching and humanitarian work, including providing orthopaedic care to underserved children in Guatemala through the Shalom Foundation. He has also served the community as the 31st Mayor of Franklin and continues to contribute to public health through his work on the State of Tennessee Opioid Abatement Council.
The award recognizes individuals whose careers demonstrate excellence in patient care, leadership, service to the profession and meaningful contributions to their communities. In presenting the award, Bowman described Dr. Moore as representing the very best of the orthopaedic profession.
The 2026 Annual Meeting reflected the TOS commitment to education, advocacy, professional collaboration and the advancement of orthopaedic care throughout Tennessee. From important conversations about healthcare policy to resident research and the recognition of a distinguished career, the meeting provided members with opportunities to learn, connect and celebrate the continued strength of orthopaedics in Tennessee.