St. Joseph’s Health Earns Recertification as a DNV Orthopedic & Spine Center of Excellence
August 19, 2026
SYRACUSE, N.Y.— St. Joseph’s Health has achieved recertification from DNV as an Orthopedic & Spine Center of Excellence, reaffirming its role as a trusted destination for advanced orthopedic and spine care in Central New York.
The DNV Orthopedic & Spine Center of Excellence recertification recognizes St. Joseph’s Health for its continued focus on delivering outstanding patient care. The designation covers the health system’s elective hip and knee replacement, shoulder surgery and spine surgery programs and reflects its commitment to clinical quality, patient safety, teamwork and ongoing performance improvement.
Through evidence-based care, advanced surgical techniques, coordinated rehabilitation services and a dedicated team of orthopedic and spine specialists, St. Joseph’s Health continues to help patients achieve excellent outcomes and return to the activities they enjoy.
“This recertification reflects the dedication and expertise of our physicians, nurses, therapists and support staff, who work together every day to provide exceptional care,” said Meredith Price, President of St. Joseph’s Health Hospital.
The recertification comes as St. Joseph’s Health continues to expand and strengthen its orthopedic and spine services. Earlier this year, the health system launched St. Joseph’s Health Orthopedic & Spine Care, bringing together a team of experienced, fellowship-trained specialists focused on making outstanding orthopedic care more accessible to patients across the region. The practice includes Dr. Bradley Raphael, Medical Director of Sports Medicine; Dr. Kevin Kopko, Medical Director of Joint Surgery; Dr. Justin Iorio, Medical Director of Spine Surgery; Dr. Aaron Bianco; and Dr. Prashant Deshmane.
Working as one integrated team, these physicians provide comprehensive orthopedic and spine care, including joint replacement, sports medicine, shoulder surgery, robotic-assisted procedures and advanced spine care. The new practice also strengthens collaboration across St. Joseph’s Health, making it easier for patients to receive coordinated care from diagnosis through recovery.
“Achieving this recertification demonstrates that patients in Central New York have access to orthopedic and spine care that meets nationally recognized standards for quality and safety,” said Dr. Justin Iorio, Medical Director of Spine Surgery. “For our spine program, it reflects a continued commitment to evidence-based treatment, advanced surgical techniques and a patient-centered approach that helps individuals regain function and improve their quality of life.”
“The launch of St. Joseph’s Health Orthopedic & Spine Care represents an important step forward in expanding access to specialized musculoskeletal care throughout our region,” said Dr. Kevin Kopko, Medical Director of Joint Surgery. “By bringing together experts across multiple orthopedic and spine specialties, we can provide patients with a more seamless experience, from diagnosis and treatment through recovery and rehabilitation.”
Located at Northeast Medical Center, Suite 115, 4000 Medical Center Drive, Fayetteville, NY 13066, St. Joseph’s Health Orthopedic and Spine Care offers convenient access to world-class care. Call 315-329-2555 to schedule an appointment.