John J. McGraw, MD, FAAOS
Colonel (retired) US Army Medical Corp
Partner Knoxville Orthopedic Clinic from 2004-2015
Medical Director OrthoTennessee from 2015-2019
Knoxville, TN
As an Emeritus Member, which AAOS resources do you use the most and why?
I appreciate the excellent AAOS webinars which provide continuing medical education. This keeps me current especially with my college and high school athletic teams.
What non-financial aspect of retirement living surprised you the most?
In my “partial retirement”, I’ve enjoyed work as one of the team physicians for Carson-Newman University traveling with football and basketball teams. This was especially challenging during the COVID pandemic with NCAA guidelines. Because of my administrative experience in the military and civilian practice of Orthopaedic surgery, I have been asked to lead in multiple roles. In 2021, I started a 5-year term on the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners and the Controlled Substance Monitoring Database (PDMP) Committee. I also currently serve as Chair of the Board of Directors of Tennova Jefferson Memorial Hospital and my county health department board.
If you were mentoring a new Member, what important advice would you give them as they progress in their career?
Young orthopaedic surgeons often make the mistake of overextending themselves financially. They sign large bonuses and commit to high mortgages and other debt. The justification is that they, and their families, have lived during years of training in a modest manner. However, strapping on large financial debt can lead to many problems that ultimately can result in major personal, professional, and family problems. My advice: “Live below your means.”
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
I have found additional time in retirement for participation in my love for music. Have served as church organist, occasional pianist, and a member of my church choir. I hope to spend even more time with our 8 grandchildren as they participate in multiple athletic, academic, and musical endeavors.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I was just elected President of the Alumni Board at North Greenville University in the mountains of South Carolina.