General Questions
Are these rankings only based on Medicare patients?
Yes. We analyze Medicare fee-for-service Part B claims from 2013–2023. That dataset captures about 19.5% of all U.S. joint replacements and 63% of Medicare fee-for-service cases. While surgeons also treat privately insured patients, Medicare offers the most comprehensive, standardized public record of surgical volume.
Do the rankings identify the “best” surgeon in my area?
They spotlight surgeons with the highest verified procedure volumes, which research shows strongly correlates with better outcomes. Still, you should weigh additional factors such as board certification, hospital quality, insurance coverage, your specific condition, and bedside manner.
What procedures are tracked?
Total hip replacement (CPT 27130), total knee replacement (CPT 27447), and total shoulder replacement (CPT 23472)—the three most common arthroplasty procedures covered by Medicare.
How current is the data?
We use the most recent CMS Provider Utilization & Payment release (2023 service year). Medicare typically publishes updates 18–24 months after year end to ensure accuracy.
Methodology & Accuracy
How are surgeon rankings calculated?
For each procedure we aggregate Medicare claims per surgeon, normalize the values, and rank by volume within a state. Search results combine volume with proximity to the ZIP code or city you enter.
Why is procedure volume important?
Three decades of peer-reviewed research (AJRR, Leapfrog Group, Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders) show surgeons performing 50+ annual joint replacements have:
- 63% fewer revision surgeries
- 60% lower infection rates
- 47% lower 90-day mortality
Volume is not the only predictor of success, but it is one of the most reliable publicly available signals of experience.
How accurate is the location data?
Addresses come directly from Medicare enrollment records. We compute straight-line distance for search results; actual drive times may differ, and some surgeons practice at multiple locations.
Does this include every procedure a surgeon performs?
No. The dataset includes Medicare fee-for-service claims. It does not reflect Medicare Advantage or commercial insurance procedures, which may increase a surgeon’s total case volume.
Using the Rankings
Should I choose a surgeon based solely on this data?
No. Use the rankings as a starting point to identify experienced surgeons, then consult with your primary care physician, review hospital quality metrics, and schedule consultations to find the best individual fit.
What is the difference between state and national rankings?
State rankings compare surgeons within a single state. The national leaderboard highlights the top 250 surgeons across the country based on cumulative Medicare procedure counts.
Where can I review the supporting research?
Visit our medical sources library for citations, outcome studies, and the methodology breakdown supporting each insight.
Who can I contact with additional questions?
Reach out anytime at contact@orthoprocedures.com or through the contact page. Our data team typically responds within one business day.