Walsh to transition to full-time clinical care role

After serving as the academic chair of the University of South Carolina Department of Orthopaedic Surgery for the past 11 years, John Walsh, M.D., has stepped down from the role of chair to focus his energy on direct clinical care.

Following Walsh’s decision to transition out of the role of chair, a committee led by Les Hall, executive dean and CEO of the Palmetto Health-USC Medical Group, began the process of identifying the best physician leader to serve as department chair.

The committee has selected Christopher G. Mazoué, M.D., to serve in this role, effective July 1, 2018.  Mazoué will partner with Dr. Brad Presnal, senior medical director for orthopedics, in the leadership and ongoing growth of Palmetto Health-USC Orthopedic Center.  

Walsh first joined the School of Medicine faculty in 1999. Since the formation of the PH-USC Medical Group, Walsh has partnered with Presnal to co-lead the formation of the Palmetto Health-USC Medical Group Department of Orthopedic Surgery. Under their leadership, the department has grown to become the largest orthopedic practice in the region. They also have greatly expanded services to our patients, earning a reputation as a high quality provider of comprehensive orthopedic services. 

Mazoué previously served as a clinical associate professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, where he has been a faculty member since 2003. A graduate of the sports medicine fellowship at the American Sports Medicine Institute in Birmingham, Ala., Mazoué is recognized both regionally and nationally for his expertise in sports medicine.  

“Over the past 19 years, Dr. Walsh’s contributions to the School of Medicine as a skilled hand surgeon, passionate educator and dedicated leader cannot be overstated,” says Dean Hall. “We are forever grateful for his leadership, and we look forward to working with Dr. Mazoué as we continue to build upon the legacy of excellence in orthopedic care and education.”