Franciscan Physician Network Sports Medicine, Putnam County Hospital announce collaboration for advanced sports medicine

Franciscan Physician Network Sports Medicine Specialists and Putnam County Hospital are proud to announce a new collaboration designed to expand access to high-quality, comprehensive sports medicine services for athletes and active individuals throughout Putnam County.

This collaboration combines Franciscan’s regional expertise in orthopedic and sports medicine care with Putnam County Hospital’s trusted local presence, ensuring that patients no longer need to travel outside the community for specialized care. Together, the organizations will deliver advanced injury prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and performance services close to home.

The partnership is centered on a shared commitment to community health, athletic excellence, and coordinated care.

“This partnership reflects our commitment to expanding access to specialty care while keeping patients close to family and support systems,” said Dennis Weatherford, CEO of  Putnam County Hospital. “We are incredibly excited about this partnership with Franciscan Health Sports Medicine as we continue strengthening our relationships with two of our county schools and expanding the services we provide locally. This collaboration reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional healthcare close to home. Our student-athletes, families, and community members deserve convenient access to high-quality sports medicine services, and this partnership ensures they can receive expert care right here in Putnam County.”

"This strategic partnership with Putnam County Hospital allows us to continue to expand the sports medicine services we offer to an even larger area of the state," said Lori Price, president and CEO for Franciscan Health Central Indiana. "We look forward to our sports medicine team sharing their expertise with our neighbors in Putnam County who will be able to receive outstanding care close to home,” said Price.

Leading the clinical team is Kathleen Naylor, DO, CAQSM, who brings extensive experience in sports medicine and a passion for caring for athletes of all ages and levels.

“I look forward to providing injury evaluation and management, as well as providing patient education focusing on optimizing performance and injury prevention to local athletes,” said Dr. Naylor.

Services will include:

• Sports injury evaluation and treatment
• Concussion management
• Orthopedic care
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy coordination
• Injury prevention education
• Sideline and school athletic coverage

The program will work closely with local schools, athletic directors, coaches, and the YMCA to support youth, high school, and recreational athletes throughout the region.