How to Choose a Hospital for Joint Replacement

Joint replacement surgery — particularly hip and knee replacements — is one of the most common surgical procedures in the United States. Choosing the right hospital can make a meaningful difference in your surgical outcome, pain relief, recovery speed, and long-term joint function.

Why Hospital Choice Matters for Joint Replacement

Research shows that hospital selection significantly impacts joint replacement outcomes:

• Complication rates vary widely between hospitals
• Infection rates differ based on hospital protocols and practices
• Length of stay and recovery timelines vary
• Access to physical therapy and rehabilitation affects long-term outcomes
• Higher-volume hospitals tend to have better results

Key Quality Indicators to Check

CMS Data

• Hip/knee replacement complication rates: CMS specifically tracks complication rates for hip and knee replacement — compare hospitals to the national average
• Hip/knee readmission rates: How often patients return to the hospital within 30 days
• Hip/knee mortality rates: Although rare, 30-day mortality data is available
• Patient experience scores: HCAHPS data reveals patient satisfaction
• Healthcare-associated infection rates: Surgical site infections are a key risk

Volume and Experience

• Look for hospitals performing a high volume of joint replacements
• High-volume surgeons (50+ procedures per year) generally achieve better outcomes
• Ask about the use of minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques

What to Look For in a Joint Replacement Program

• Comprehensive joint program: Dedicated joint replacement centers often have streamlined protocols
• Pre-operative education: Joint classes that prepare you for surgery and recovery
• Enhanced recovery protocols: Modern programs get patients moving sooner with less pain
• Physical therapy: On-site rehabilitation starting the day of or day after surgery
• Pain management: Multimodal approaches that minimize opioid use
• Outpatient option: Many knee and hip replacements can now be done as outpatient or short-stay procedures

Questions to Ask

• How many joint replacements does this hospital perform per year?
• What is the hospital's complication and readmission rate for joint replacement?
• What surgical technique will be used (traditional, minimally invasive, robotic)?
• What is the typical length of stay?
• What does the rehabilitation plan look like?
• Am I a candidate for outpatient joint replacement?
• What are the estimated total costs?

Compare hospital joint replacement data at Medicare Care Compare.

Data sourced from CMS. Visit Medicare Care Compare or call 1-800-MEDICARE.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for consultation with an orthopedic surgeon.