We at Washington Orthopaedic Center are proudly celebrating our 50th anniversary, marking five decades of excellence in orthopedic medicine and our unwavering dedication to serving patients in Lewis County and beyond. Founded in 1973 by the esteemed Dr. Larry Hull, our center has grown into a leading provider of orthopedic care, guided by Christian principles and a commitment to compassionate healing.
Dr. Larry Hull had a vision to establish an organization that would offer high-quality orthopedic care to our community while upholding our core values. Throughout his 35 years of service, he demonstrated unwavering dedication to his patients and the advancement of orthopedic medicine. In January 2008, Dr. Hull announced his retirement, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
Despite retiring, Dr. Hull’s passion for medical mission work never waned. He embarked on nearly 30 trips since 1976, primarily in Central America and Papua New Guinea, providing much-needed care and donating orthopedic equipment to those in need. Dr. Hull’s impact extended beyond his medical expertise—he played an instrumental role in building an on-site family medical clinic for the local residents through his family-owned coffee plantation in Papua New Guinea.
Tragically, in April 2018, Dr. Hull passed away, leaving behind a void in the orthopedic community. His memory will forever be cherished for his compassionate patient care and unwavering dedication to humanitarian efforts.
Since Dr. Hull’s passing, we at Washington Orthopaedic Center have continued to thrive, expanding our reach and delivering exceptional orthopedic care to patients across Western Washington. Today, our center boasts a large team of orthopedic experts serving patients at both the Centralia and Olympia clinic locations. We have Dr. Keith Birchard, a distinguished General orthopedist specializing in total joint replacements including hips, knees, and shoulders. With our wealth of knowledge and decades of experience, we provide exceptional care to our patients. Dr. Michael D. Dujela, with over 20 years of dedicated practice, is a highly experienced surgeon specializing in foot, ankle, and lower leg surgery. His fellowship training and unwavering commitment to excellence have earned him a trusted reputation in the field. Dr. Chad L. Bender is a dedicated orthopedic surgeon who focuses on hand, wrist, and elbow surgery. Proficient in arthroscopic and minimally invasive techniques, we offer advanced treatment options to our patients. Lastly, we have Dr. Christopher A. Hawkins who has spent more than 20 years specializing in sports medicine. His vast expertise in diagnosing and treating sports-related injuries has made him an invaluable resource for athletes and individuals with active lifestyles. Together, we form a team dedicated to providing exceptional orthopedic care.
Washington Orthopaedic Center remains at the forefront of medical technology, providing our patients with the most advanced care available.
As we commemorate our 50th anniversary, we remain dedicated to providing personalized, quality care to individuals from all walks of life, regardless of race, creed, gender, religious preference, or financial situation. Our commitment to excellence and unwavering focus on patient needs continue to drive our success.
