Mark Getelman, MD, completed his term as 2021-22 president of the Arthroscopy Association of North America. He shared his thoughts looking back at that term in a June 9 news release.
1. The biggest challenges Dr. Getelman discussed were related to COVID-19 and diversity in orthopedics. During his term, the AANA partnered with the Ruth Jackson Orthopedic Society and expanded webinar opportunities in lieu of in-person meetings.
2. Dr. Getelman said his biggest accomplishments were in advocacy. The AANA exceeded its $4 million fundraising goal and will start a program for women and underrepresented people in medicine that exposes them to careers in arthroscopy.
3. He said he is optimistic about the future of the 6,000-member organization and its growing diversity.
"It is our goal to grow worldwide and to help educate our members around the globe," Dr. Getelman said in the release. "I do think we will remain a leader as it pertains to diversity equity and inclusion, and it is my hope that when we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we will no longer be needing to consider DEI as an issue."
4. Dr. Getelman joined AANA more than 20 years ago. He previously served on the Fellowship and Education committees.