Did you know that, as an AAOS member, you have exclusive and free access to preprinted informational materials that help educate patients about orthopaedic conditions and treatment options? The Academy offers patient-focused postcards, posters, brochures, and bookmarks that can be used in office reception areas and examining rooms.

These printed materials can help you communicate essential patient safety, bone and joint health and injury prevention messages. They can also be used to educate patients about key musculoskeletal issues.

All materials are printed in full color on high quality paper stock; posters can be easily framed for hanging. Oversize postcards (6" × 8") include an orthopaedic-related message on the reverse as well as space for you to include your own message. The brochure, Orthopaedic Surgeons: Restoring Mobility and Keeping Our Nation in Motion, discusses the training an orthopaedic surgeon has and what an orthopaedic surgeon does.

It’s easy to order any of these items. Postcards and bookmarks are generally available in packages of 25. Posters can be ordered in any quantity. A full list of free products is available online at www.aaos.org/prresources

This is a free benefit of your AAOS membership, and I hope you take advantage of these resources. But you must act quickly to get your free preprinted materials. Beginning Oct. 1, 2014, these resources will only be available as digital downloads.

The Communications Cabinet will continue to create and produce materials that help AAOS members connect with patients and other key stakeholders. And in the meantime, I welcome your feedback. If there is a topic or idea you think would resonate well with patients, with the media, with elected officials, or within your local communities, please contact media@aaos.org

And, don’t forget to place your order for free printed materials before Oct. 1.

Alan S. Hilibrand, MD, chairs the AAOS Communications Cabinet. He can be reached at ahilibrand@gmail.com