News Summary
A group of ten orthopedic surgeons has formed a new practice named Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville (OSJ) after leaving the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute (JOI). OSJ, which opened earlier this month, aims to enhance orthopedic care in Jacksonville, focusing on patient access and treatment for musculoskeletal injuries. Operating from two locations, the practice also maintains a collaboration with Baptist Health, ensuring comprehensive care for patients. Meanwhile, JOI is undergoing significant restructuring, leading to layoffs and the closure of several facilities.
Jacksonville
A group of ten orthopedic surgeons has departed from the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute (JOI) to launch a new medical practice named Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville (OSJ). The new establishment began operations earlier this month and aims to enhance orthopedic care for patients in the area.
OSJ operates from two locations: one at 5191 First Coast Technology Parkway near Butler and Kernan boulevards and another at 14534 Old St. Augustine Road, Suite 3210, near Baptist Health South Campus. Kevin M. Kaplan has been appointed as the lead physician for OSJ, where the main focus is on improving patient access to orthopedic services and providing specialized treatment for various conditions.
Though the formation of OSJ happened during the time of JOI’s restructuring, Kaplan explained that their decision was not a direct consequence of JOI’s changes. JOI is currently undergoing significant reorganization, which includes closing several patient offices and laying off more than 100 employees. This will enable JOI to operate independently after repurchasing its stock from Baptist Health.
Details of the Restructuring
The restructuring plan for JOI has been in the works since 2011 when the organization sold its stock to Baptist Health. JOI is progressing toward a buyback initiative that is expected to be finalized in approximately 90 days. The organization’s reorganization will also lead to the closure of various rehabilitation facilities and a reduction in its workforce, with a total of 153 employees across multiple roles set to be laid off by mid-July 2025.
Scope of Services at OSJ
Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville is focused on treating a range of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, including sports injuries and issues affecting the spine, hands, feet, and joints. In its commitment to patient care, OSJ retains close ties with Baptist Health and collaborates closely with the hospital to ensure comprehensive treatment options. The new practice also accepts most insurance plans, aiming to provide easier access for patients seeking orthopedic care.
Impact on Patients and Staff
During this transition period, JOI has conveyed its intention to maintain communication with its patients, offering them the choice to remain under JOI’s care or transfer to OSJ. This includes assisting with the transfer of medical records, ensuring a seamless transition for patients and maintaining continuity of care.
At OSJ, most of the surgeons have retained their nurse practitioners and physician assistants to ensure that patient services remain uninterrupted. They have also coordinated staff roles for reception and surgical scheduling, funded by the new organization to support operational efficiency.
Looking to the Future
The establishment of Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville marks a significant development in ongoing changes within the orthopedic care landscape in Jacksonville. By centering on patient availability and quality care, OSJ looks to address the diverse orthopedic needs of the community, amid a backdrop of restructuring and redefining growth in orthopedic services.
As OSJ continues to develop, it remains to be seen how these shifts in the healthcare industry will affect local patients’ access to orthopedic services in Jacksonville.
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Additional Resources
- Jacksonville Daily Record: Newly Formed Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville Opens in Two Offices
- Wikipedia: Orthopedic Surgery
- Action News Jax: Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute Laying Off Workers
- Google Search: Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute
- PRWeb: Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute New Chapter
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orthopedics
- First Coast News: Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute Lay Offs
- Google News: Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.