Gunnison Valley Health Introduces Gunnison Valley Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Beginning September 1, Gunnison Valley Health will launch Gunnison Valley Orthopedics and Sports Medicine (GVO), bringing a comprehensive orthopedic clinic formally under the umbrella of the local health system. The clinic will be led by Dr. Blake Clifton, M.D., who will join Gunnison Valley Health as the Medical Director of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.

Gunnison Valley Health CEO, Jason Amrich, said this new employed orthopedic clinic is one piece of a larger plan to foster collaboration among local providers and develop a world class orthopedic service line here in the Gunnison Valley.

“I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Clifton and his team to Gunnison Valley Health. His skill as a physician and connection to our community make him the ideal leader for orthopedics and sports medicine in the health system,” Amrich said. “The Gunnison Valley is filled with residents and visitors who come here because of the multitude of recreation opportunities. Having a comprehensive orthopedic clinic connected to the health system orthopedic service line that works collaboratively with the network of local providers will support people to have the right care to live active and healthy lifestyles.”

Gunnison Valley Orthopedics utilizes both surgical and non-surgical options to provide comprehensive care for individuals no matter the situation. Not only is Dr. Clifton fellowship trained in pediatric and adult sports medicine he specializes in total joint replacement and arthritis care. His diverse training and years of experience make him uniquely qualified to provide care for every person in the Gunnison Valley.

Dr. Clifton said that the move from gO Orthopedics to Gunnison Valley Health will bring expanded resources and opportunities to do even more for his patients.

“The opportunity to bring my team to our local health system and continue offering the same personalized, cutting-edge care that you have come to expect will create a multitude of new opportunities and improve the health of our community,” Clifton said. “I look forward to the opportunity to bring new specialties to the valley while expanding our partnerships and collaborations with other providers.”

Dr. Clifton, supported by Physician Assistant, Alex Wray, offers treatment options ranging from corticosteroid injections to total joint replacements.

“Our mission is to empower our community to live an active and healthy lifestyle through the delivery of comprehensive orthopedic care and sports medicine. We know that every person and every injury is different and there isn’t one treatment option that works for all,” Amrich said. “I want to help kids return to sport safely and effectively, to support athletes to increase performance, to support older adults to improve mobility and to help every person have the care they need to live their life to the fullest.”

GVO has clinics in both Gunnison and Crested Butte, offering convenient access and scheduling for all. To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact the GVO Crested Butte clinic at 970-349-5103 or the Gunnison clinic at 970-641-8899.