Press Releases
Referral from Olympic Gold Medal Champion Brings Russian Businessman to Dr. Westrich for Hip Replacement
(New York, NY. November 6, 2009). When 50-year-old Alexander Brum from Moscow needed a total hip replacement for severe arthritis, he turned to his Russian friend, Alexei Yagudin for advice. Yagudin, one of the most popular Olympic gold-medal figure skaters of all time, did not hesitate. He told him about Dr. Geoffrey Westrich at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in Manhattan. Yagudin had surgery with Dr. Westrich several years ago and did quite well.
Mr. Brum was looking for the best doctor, hospital and rehabilitation program he could find, so he made the long trip to the U.S. for an initial consultation with Dr. Westrich last February. The Russian businessman was impressed with the doctor and came back in October for hip replacement surgery. He brought six family members and friends, some of whom speak fluent English. They stayed across the street from HSS at the hospital's Belaire Guest Facility, a convenient and comfortable location catering to patients who come from out of town.
Dr. Westrich, co-director of joint replacement research at HSS, has had patients from South America, as well. "Patients say they come here because they are seeking the best care possible," he says. "It is really a 'small world,' thanks to the Internet. Patients can find a wealth of information about doctors and hospitals in the U.S. by going on line, provided they understand English."
Hospital for Special Surgery, a highly-regarded specialty hospital dedicated exclusively to orthopedics and rheumatology, has an International Center devoted to meeting the needs of foreign patients. The Center is sensitive to foreign patients and their culture to ensure a high standard of care. Services include scheduling and confirming medical appointments, preparing cost estimates, coordination of billing and payment arrangements, reservations in the Belaire Guest Facility and arranging for medical interpreters.
Mr. Brum says his decision to come to HSS "was a wise choice." He is very happy with the care he received from Dr. Westrich and with his rehabilitation following surgery.
After years of suffering with severe arthritis, Mr. Brum is now pain-free and looking forward to getting back to normal activities. He says the trip to New York for surgery was well worth it. Anyone wishing to make an appointment with Dr. Westrich is invited to call: 212-606-1510.