
In 2024, AAOS made strides to meet its members where they are and provide the resources, education, advocacy, and innovation they need to provide the highest-quality musculoskeletal care for their patients. With a newly implemented 5-year Strategic Plan, the Academy was more focused than ever on forging the path to excellence in orthopaedics. The 2024 Annual Report highlights the extensive accomplishments AAOS made through the collaboration of members, leaders, and staff.
Educational offerings expanded in 2024, including enhancements to the Resident Orthopaedic Core Knowledge (ROCK) platform, continued additions to the Orthopaedic Video Theater, a new online bookstore, and a focus on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence through the AAOS Live Courses program. The Learning Innovation Lab placed the needs, behaviors, and experiences of members at the core of its work by developing four new educational products: Diagnosis Spotlight, ICL360, Orthopaedic Care for Physician Assistants, and RecertReady. The AAOS 2024 Annual Meeting brought together the best in orthoapedic education and innovation, launching the technology competition OrthoPitch; hosting more than 600 exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall; presenting more than 1,620 VIPER papers, posters, and ePosters; and providing invaluable networking opportunities for members at all career stages.
Advocacy remained at the forefront of AAOS’ priorities in 2024, as collaborations with legislators and agencies secured funding for musculoskeletal research and influenced healthcare policy. During Orthopaedic Advocacy Week, members addressed key issues including prior authorization, physician-owned hospitals, and medical liability. AAOS was also party to three historic testimonies before Congress as members of the orthopaedic community discussed topics impacting physician practice and patient care.
Advancements in quality care in 2024 included a focus on orthobiologics and patient-reported outcome measures. The AAOS Registry Program continued to thrive, now encompassing more than 4.5 million procedures and providing a robust foundation for evidence-based decision making and improvements in patient care.
The AAOS Inspiring Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA) Grant Program® continued to demonstrate the Academy’s commitment to equity and inclusion by fostering a diverse orthopaedic workforce and focusing on inclusive patient care. In 2024, $300,000 was awarded across 17 programs addressing disparities in orthopaedics.
Looking forward, the Academy will carry out its new Strategic Plan and focus on modernizing governance, building partnerships, enhancing member engagement, and advocating for the best possible patient care. In doing so, AAOS will remain the leading voice in musculoskeletal health.