Mullens attends national orthopaedic surgeons leadership conference

Jess Mullens, M.D., U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures, and
Steven Theiss, M.D.

USA Health orthopaedic surgeon Jess Mullens, M.D., was one of two orthopaedic surgeons representing Alabama at the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ National Orthopaedic Leadership Conference, held Sept. 13-17 in Washington, D.C. The annual meeting brings orthopaedic leaders together to engage in advocacy and policy discussions affecting the field.

During the conference, Mullens and Steven Theiss, M.D., of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, met with members of the U.S. congressional delegation from Alabama to discuss issues including Medicare, prior authorization, and research funding.

“We also had the chance to meet face to face with U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures, who was very receptive to our concerns,” Mullens said. “It was a privilege to advocate on behalf of our patients, our profession, and the orthopaedic surgeons across the state.”

Mullens serves as president of the Alabama Orthopaedic Society for the 2025-2026 term, which will end in May 2026. The organization comprises more than 400 members including practicing orthopaedic surgeons, residents and fellows.

“As president, my goals include strengthening education programming at the annual meeting, enhancing advocacy efforts at both the state and national levels on issues affecting patient care and physician practice, and increasing member engagement and growth,” Mullens said.

At USA Health, his practice focuses on the care of the foot and ankle. He directs the orthopaedic surgery residency program and serves as an assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery at the Whiddon College of Medicine.