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Dr. Joseph Ward, MD

Dr. Joseph Ward, MD

Orthopedic Surgery*
10+ years of experience

Dr. Joseph Ward, MD is an orthopedic surgeon in Traverse City, MI and has over 10 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine in 2010. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Munson Healthcare Cadillac Hospital and Munson Medical Center. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.

4.8 Star Rating
Based on 48 reviews 4.8 Star Rating (48 reviews)

Munson Healthcare Orthopedic Institute

3537 W Front St Traverse City, MI 49684
Telehealth available

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Hospital Highlight

Dr. Ward is affiliated with Munson Medical Center Traverse City, a highly rated and top awarded hospital for orthopedic surgery.

At a Glance

  • Area of Expertise
    Dr. Ward specializes in the area of Orthopedic Surgery. See board certifications
  • Explains Conditions Well
    Patients said this doctor explains conditions well. See reviews
  • Offers Telehealth
    This doctor offers telehealth appointments. Call the office to schedule an appointment.
  • Practices at Top Hospital
    Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ See hospitals
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Dr. Ward's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Ward

4.8
48 ratings, 45 with a written review
5 star
94%
94%
4 star
0%
0%
3 star
0%
0%
2 star
0%
0%
1 star
6%
6%

Your trust is our top concern.

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Terrific
Dr. Ward gives the impression he's totally interested in your circumstances by asking relevant questions, and engaging with you--no pressure or rush.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Long wait times
Helpful
Feb 08, 2025
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Dr. Ward did a full knee replacement for me. I was having lots of issues, like falling 13 times in 6 months. I went to another Dr. The xray showed that my knee cap was off 40%. I have the xray to prove it. I had a redo on my knee and progressing wonderfully and no falls.
What went well
  • Staff friendliness
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Helen Basberg – Sep 19, 2024
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Excellent
I had full left knee replacement done by Dr Ward on May 9th. He asked what my expectations were and I told him I wanted to be able To walk pain free with my grandsons to the park. The morning of my 4 week post op check up, I walked pain free to the park with my grandsons. My surgery was relatively quick and I was walking without a cane or walker By day two. My home healthcare worker, Cathy Bouchard, was Professional and encouraging and I would strongly recommend that anyone having this surgery not skip this part of the recovery, with her if you can do it. Krister and Dr Ward patiently answered All of my questions and Concerns through this entire experience. I would definitely go back to Dr Ward and his staff if I need any further surgery. I am currently back to a daily exercise routine. The fact that Dr Ward and my physical therapist were local was a huge plus in getting to appts as Follow up physical therapy is essential but also can be time consuming. Peg Roth
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Jul 13, 2022
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Left knee replaced Nov 17, 2021
I was very pleased with the results of my knee replacement thanks to Dr. Joseph Ward. All went exactly as planned. He explained what I was to expect and everything he predicted happened. A few at PT were so impressed with the stitches on my knee they asked who did my surgery. I almost back to walking normal, still a little sore but each day it gets better. In the beginning there was a lot of pain but it was worth all I went through. Thank you Dr. Joseph Ward! Bianka Hendren
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Bianka Hendren – Jan 29, 2022
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Dr. Ward did a right hip replacement surgery for me last December. I am so happy with the result. The whole experience from the outpatient surgery at St. Joe's in Pontiac to the in home physical therapy went like clockwork. I could not be more pleased with the outcome. I got really good care all the way through.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Kristin Stocker – Dec 02, 2021
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I had a total hip replacement by Dr. Ward and it could not have been better! Dr. Ward and his entire staff were professional, caring and answered all my questions. I would recommend Dr. Ward for any orthopedic needs you may have.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Walter Green – Aug 04, 2021
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Office works in cohesion & is timely; Dr. Ward is an expert in his trade & patiently explains your situation & options. His surgery work is flawless.
What went well
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Dr. Ward & Staff – Jul 01, 2021
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My experience with Dr. Ward and his staff could not have been better. Each time I visited the office, the front office staff welcomed me and took the time to answer any informational and insurance-related questions prior to my meeting with Dr. Ward. I was seen promptly and once in the examination room, my wait was no more than five minutes. This was each and every time. Dr. Ward took the time to explain my injury and even went so far as to show me my MRI results. He pointed to the damaged areas and described how he could repair them and gave me a timeline for my healing process. His surgical coordinator, Kylie, set everything up with the surgery center perfectly. On the day of surgery, Dr. Ward talked with me, verifying exactly what he would be doing, setting me at ease. He talked with the nursing and anesthesiology staff, making sure they were all on the same page. Afterwards, I had little discomfort and my knee is back to being stable pain-free thanks to Dr. Ward.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Tim S. - Right knee meniscectomy – Jun 25, 2021
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I had a full left knee replacement in late January, 2021 - outpatient basis. The 6" pencil- thin scar has completely healed, and I am on my way to full knee mobility. Dr. Ward and his staff were excellent in describing the procedure, what to expect, and follow-up exams. The staff arranged for two weeks of in-home treatment following surgery, and 3 weeks of outpatient physical therapy. Dr. Ward is a very skillful surgeon and I highly recommend him. He is very down to earth and demonstrates great confidence.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Bill Seng – Feb 26, 2021
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Dr. Ward is an excellent orthopedic surgeon choice if you have hip pain that requires evaluation and potential replacement. Dr. Ward thoughtfully explained my condition and options without pressuring me to take immediate action. He took time to understand my unique concerns and risks. After my decision to pursue surgery, he and his team made sure I was properly informed and prepared. At the hospital, Dr. Ward exhibited calm confidence. I felt he was most comfortable in that arena, which allowed me to feel the same way entering the operating room and throughout my recovery. I couldn’t be happier with the level of care I’ve received throughout the entire process and will be trusting Dr. Ward with any further orthopedic needs that arise.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Stephanie B – Feb 01, 2021
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I had a total knee replacement in September 2019. A year and a half out I’m still happy with the results. Dr Ward is very approachable, tells it like it is, and has a good “bedside manner” along with being obviously good at what he does. I used the St Joe at home physical therapy and then went to the ATI rehab facility in Dr Wards building. Between Dr Ward and the therapists, rehab was a lot of work but also a breeze and was off the walker after 3 days.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Nancy – Jan 21, 2021
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Dr Ward performed hip replacement surgery on me Oct 17, 2020, I had my 3 month check up yesterday and all is a okay. I have been cleared for back to normal activities. Dr Ward, his staff and everyone at St Joe's have been fabulous. Care, concern, education and follow up could not have been better.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Kevin Downey – Jan 13, 2021
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I had a total knee replacement done by Dr. Ward. I was young for a knee replacement (52) but surgery was a necessary last resort. Dr. Ward did not rush me into the surgery but allowed me to explore all other options first. He always presented the facts in a straightforward manner and allowed me to make the final decision of having surgery. The surgery went well and my recovery is ahead of schedule. Dr. Ward is honest, professional, and very thorough. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Tim S – Sep 30, 2020
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After enduring hip pain for more than a year it became necessary to undergo hip replacement. As a retired nurse & active grandmother it was important to me to find a skilled orthopedic surgeon I could trust to restore maximum mobility. Dr. Joe Ward was highly recommended by several good friends. The rest is history. COVID complicated the scheduling & hospital stay but I was so impressed with how Dr. Ward & staff worked through it with such professionalism & compassion. It was a source of comfort to have procedures explained thoroughly & all questions answered. The end results are awesome! I’ve resumed an active life & am very grateful for the skilled care received!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Carol Champion – Aug 21, 2020
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I recently had a complete knee replacement performed by Joseph P Ward , md . Right from the beginning his aplomb was reassuring and put me at ease. He explained every question I had in detail. His advice on what to expect and do during recovery was spot on. I was up and walking right away with feelings of alacrity abound. I was very impressed with the results immediately after surgery and would recommend Dr Ward to anyone who wants a surgeon with unquestionable surgical skills.
What went well
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Rodger – Jul 07, 2020
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Great Dr. I see him for my old knee's. I get Gel-One shots in both knee's 2 times a year. Zero pain getting the shots also takes his time with you & listens to you. I drive an hour 1 way to see him well worth it.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Gpod – Jun 16, 2020
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Doctor Ward is very good knows his stuff. No doubt Blessed by the Holy Spirit. Very good visit. Good Support staff...
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
J. R. Wiechec – Jun 10, 2020
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This isn't my first experience with the "Orthopedic Surgeons of Oakland County" (OSOC) group! I drove from New Baltimore MI to Bloomfield Hills. Yes it was a long way, 32 Miles one way, but, the doctors at OSOC were worth the drive. My wife and I have seen several Ortho's on the east side, but we just couldn't tolerate their arrogance and smug attitudes, along with NO PERSONALITY! These wonderful Doctors ACTUALLY have a personality. Dr. Ward is a kind, caring man who will spend as much time with you as he has to, to make sure you understand what he will be doing in the OR. Never was he arrogant, or smug, rude or condescending during or after my surgeries. When Dr. Ward replaced my first knee, I recovered and finished my PT in 6 weeks after my surgery! I as bending my right knee at 127 degrees. Four months later I had my second knee surgery, and 7 weeks after that surgery, I was finished with PT and was bending my left knee at 130 degrees. I can't thank Dr. Ward enough for his talented
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Paul M. Kozicki – Mar 07, 2020
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I am writing this one year following a total hip replacement don by Dr. Ward. It was a 100% positive experience! His preparation for my surgery was very thorough. The surgery itself went very well, and his guidance throughout my recovery was spot on! I highly recommend this very skilled and capable surgeon!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
John Fournier – Feb 15, 2020
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I recently had total hip replacement surgery by Dr. Joseph P. Ward and I could not be happier with the results. Dr. Ward came highly recommended and he has superb academic credentials, orthopedic surgical training and extensive experience with hip procedures. On my first appointment with Dr. Ward, it was immediately clear that he and his staff are very attentive and patient-centered. He carefully reviewed my x-rays with me and explained the problems with my hip, and then made recommendations for treatment. Preparation for my surgery was detailed and I was always aware of all important steps both before and after the procedure. Dr. Ward checked me carefully after surgery and on the following day, just before I was discharged from the hospital. My follow up visits to his office have likewise been excellent. Dr. Ward always takes as much time as needed to answer my questions and I very much appreciate his unhurried approach. I was experiencing considerable pain in my hip prior to surgery.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Donald Kuhn – Nov 15, 2019
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Leave a review

How was your experience with Dr. Ward?

About Me

care philosophy

I find tremendous joy in helping patient with arthritis regain their mobility!  I strive to provide compassionate and personalized care to all of my patients.  

biography

I love working towards the goal of getting patients back to being active.  The most rewarding aspect is seeing my post-operative patients back in the office.  I feel a sense of accomplishment when I hear that patients no longer have pain or have been able to return to activities that they love.  
  • Orthopedic Surgery

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • New England Baptist Hospital

    Fellowship Hospital, 2016
  • University Of Michigan Health System

    Residency Hospital, 2015
  • Loyola University Chicago Stritch School Of Medicine

    Medical School, 2010
  • Columbia University

    Undergraduate School, 2005
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery®
Orthopedic Surgery
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.

Locations

Munson Healthcare Orthopedic Institute

Munson Healthcare Orthopedic Institute3537 W Front St Traverse City, MI 49684
1

Affiliated Hospitals

  • Munson Medical Center

    1105 Sixth St
    Traverse City, MI 49684
    Recipient of 7
    hospital awards

    America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement Award™ (2024, 2023)

    Superior clinical outcomes in knee and hip replacement

    Patient Safety Excellence Award™ (2023)

    Superior clinical outcomes in knee and hip replacement

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    89%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    5% higher than the national average

    79%
    Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well

    4% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • Munson Healthcare Cadillac Hospital

    400 Hobart St
    Cadillac, MI 49601
    Recipient of 4
    hospital awards

    Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ (2024, 2023, 2022)

    Top in the nation for overall patient experience based on nine measures related to doctor and nurse communication, hospital cleanliness and noise levels, and medication and post-discharge care instructions

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    90%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    6% higher than the national average

    82%
    Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

    6% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • Trinity Health Oakland Hospital

    44405 Woodward Ave
    Pontiac, MI 48341

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    85%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    1% higher than the national average

    74%
    Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well

    1% lower than the national average

    View all patient feedback
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