Dr. Forese graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University and earned her medical degree at Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons. A board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Forese holds a degree in health services management from Columbia University. She is also a board member and Medical Advisory Committee chair of the Matthew Larson Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.
In 1993, Dr. Forese joined the full-time faculty at Columbia University, where she specialized in pediatric orthopedic surgery. She also served as chief of surgical and anesthesia services at Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw, N.Y., and vice president for medical affairs at New York Presbyterian.
In an interview with Orthopedics Today, Dr. Forese said that while she loved practicing orthopedic surgery, her role as a hospital executive allows her to impact more people and work with a large and varied team. “My career as an orthopedic surgeon was terrific preparation because I had exposure to dealing with physicians in all specialties,” she said. “I was also comfortable giving people bad news, which is something that every hospital executive has to be able to do.”
Dr. Forsese told Orthopedics Today that, more than anything, she credits her success to her supportive, dynamic team. “We are aware of the importance of teamwork,” she said. “Interdisciplinary teams are necessary for good orthopedic care.”
Steven Corwin, MD, former executive vice president and COO of New York Presbyterian, said of Dr. Forese, “Laura has continually shown superb leadership, demonstrating a commitment to the Hospital’s mission of delivering outstanding care and putting the patient first.”
