You join a stable, experienced orthopedic group that has shaped musculoskeletal care across northwest Wyoming for decades. The department blends long-term community presence with steady leadership, giving you colleagues who understand the region, the patient population, and the rhythm of practicing orthopedics in a rural hub. Each surgeon brings a different clinical background, creating a well-rounded group able to support a new partner with a broad general practice.
Christopher D. Rice, MD has been in Cody for more than a decade and centers his practice on hand and shoulder care. His consistency in the community and his familiarity with the hospital’s systems make him a reliable colleague and point of continuity. His experience with upper extremity work complements the generalist expectations for the incoming surgeon.
Mark Ryzewicz, MD brings fellowship training and a focus on foot and ankle, total joints, and sports-related procedures. He has practiced with Cody Regional Health for several years and contributes both surgical depth and approachability. His ability to cover several clinical domains helps the group maintain flexible scheduling and balanced call responsibilities.
Stephen F. Emery, MD is the senior member of the team, with more than 30 years of orthopedic experience in Cody and close to a decade within the CRH system. His long-standing connection to the community provides invaluable insight into patient expectations, referral patterns, and the evolution of orthopedic care in the region. He offers mentorship-level perspective for surgeons joining a rural practice for the first time.
The advanced practice team rounds out the department and plays a key role in daily workflow. Clint Merritt, PA-C, with roughly 15 years at CRH, is deeply integrated into both clinic and procedural support. His familiarity with the town and the regional outreach footprint helps maintain continuity when providers travel to satellite locations. Jeff Turner, PA-C, the newest addition to the team, contributes added flexibility and has quickly fit into the collaborative dynamic that defines the group.
Independent orthopedic surgeons also practice within the community, and two of them work within the same medical building. Their presence shapes the broader landscape but does not interfere with the cohesion of the employed group. Jimmie G. Biles Jr., MD, Matthew D. Sanders, MD, and Michael J. Hall, MD each maintain their own practices, serving as external colleagues whom you may interact with through call coordination or shared patient pathways. They contribute to the community’s overall orthopedic capacity while underscoring the importance of recruiting another employed surgeon as retirements approach.
The department’s culture is defined by teamwork, authenticity, and shared commitment to the community. Surgeons here value approachable colleagues, steady communication, and an environment where decisions are made without bureaucracy. You enter a group that supports one another, balances call fairly, and welcomes a partner who contributes to the long-term stability of orthopedic care in the Big Horn Basin.