Full-Service Orthopedic Care Returns to PCH/FMC

Dr. Wheeler joins staff as full-time orthopedic surgeon

Comprehensive orthopedic care has returned to Paris Community Hospital/Family Medical Center with the addition of Dr. Ronald Wheeler, orthopedic surgeon.

As a full-time employee in the Paris Family Medical Center, Dr. Wheeler is leading the orthopedics team consisting of Angela Hamilton, family nurse practitioner, and an experienced nursing staff. The department offers a full range of services from fracture care to advanced knee and hip reconstruction.

“I love orthopedics and helping people,” said Dr. Wheeler. “The patient comes first in everything I do.”

Dr. Wheeler provides care for patients of all ages. He has an extensive medical background in orthopedics, having trained and conducted research at several prestigious medical institutions throughout the country, including Mt. Sinai School in New York City and Stanford University in California.

Dr. Wheeler performs arthroscopic surgery to treat a variety of conditions, including meniscus tears, ACL reconstruction, and cartilage problems. Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive approach that utilizes a tiny scope and a small incision, which means a faster recovery for the patient.

He has performed 6,000 total hip replacements and nearly 3,000 total knee replacements. He also performs reconstructive surgery for ankles and shoulders. He treats elbow problems and has performed numerous hand surgeries. His background includes sports medicine, having served as team physician for many high school and college sports programs. He also treats traumatic injuries involving children and teens.

“I want my patients to be informed and understand that surgery is not necessarily the answer to everything, but it can be extremely beneficial,” Dr. Wheeler said. “I’m a physician first, and then a surgeon.”

Dr. Wheeler said he prefers to practice in a small town. He was born in Pocatello, Idaho.

“I’m a small-town guy,” he said. “They don’t need me in New York City or California. I pursued this opportunity here because there’s a need in Paris and eastern Illinois.”

Prior to PCH/FMC, Dr. Wheeler worked in Quincy and Macomb, Ill., and was the chief physician for Western Illinois University sports.

Dr. Wheeler graduated with high honors from Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. He completed an orthopedic surgery residency at Stanford University Medical Center in California. While at Stanford, he completed a fellowship in cerebral palsy/muscular dystrophy, for which only two national fellowships were funded.

Dr. Wheeler has received numerous honors and has held various teaching and professional appointments. He belongs to several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Dr. Wheeler and his wife, Rebecca, have four sons, a daughter, and 12 grandchildren. In his spare time, he is a breeder for quarter horses, shows horses competitively, and enjoys trout fishing.

“I have many titles, but my favorite is grandpa,” he said.

A referral is not needed to see Dr. Wheeler. For an appointment, call (217) 466-4714.