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Richard M. Kirby, M.D.

Orthopedic Surgery, Shoulder

About

Dr. Kirby was born and raised in Seattle. He attended Stanford University where, as a junior, he was elected to the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society. In medical school at the University of Washington he was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society, and was #1 in his class. After his orthopedic residency at the UW, Dr. Kirby was trained in shoulder evaluation and treatment at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York City. His practice is now focused on shoulder problems and he is committed to the importance of each patient.

Dr. Kirby lives in Seattle with his wife, who he met in junior high school. They have two grown daughters and one grandchild. He has a passion for windsurfing and he spends much of his recreation time in Hood River, Oregon. He also enjoys skiing, wakesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding and photography. He and his wife have three beloved Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Dr. Kirby had specialty training in the shoulder with Dr. Charles Neer II in New York City, and has extensive expertise in the treatment of all shoulder problems.

Education

Pre-Medical Education
Stanford University

Medical School
University of Washington School of Medicinee

Residency
Children’s Orthopedic Hospital /University of Washington

Residency
University of Washington Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Fellowship
Shoulder Surgery, Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, with Dr. Charles Neer

Board Certification
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
Fellow, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Affiliations

Member, Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society

Fellow, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Member and president (former), Northwestern Medical Association

Member, Washington State Orthopedic Association

Preceptor, University of Washington Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine (Third year medical students)

President (former) and Member, Puget Sound Chapter, Western Orthopedic Association

Locations

Swedish Orthopedic Institute

601 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98122

Phone: 206-386-2600
Fax: 206-622-1644

Video Intro

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Dr. Kirby is the friendliest doctor I've seen in decades. He was clear about what my injury was, and what was the most efficient form of treatment. I trust and respect Dr. Kirby greatly and I wouldn't go to anyone else for surgery- he's a truly caring and kind person and even better doc.
~ Benjamin
Dr. Kirby is a master physician and professor. Prior to my visit, I was convinced, based on contrast MRI imaging of my shoulder, that I likely would need surgery. Dr. Kirby carefully examined my shoulders, reviewed and explained my images to me in great detail, reassuring me that I did not need an operation recommending instead a gradual return to a sensible level of activity. I found the visit most informative and reassuring. Dr. Kirby, his nurse, and assistant exhibit the highest level of professionalism, expertise, and compassion, and I would absolutely recommend Dr. Kirby without hesitation or reservation. This is a model of excellence among medical practices.
~ Charles
Dr. Kirby is the finest, most honest surgeon I've had the privilege to meet. He's thorough on the exam and made sure my wife and I understood the results of the X-rays. Although I'm having some discomfort, Dr. Kirby reassured me that my shoulder is not ready for surgery. That shows me that he has my best interest in mind so I appreciate his honesty, best quality for a physician to have.
~ George
Dear Dr. Kirby, we want you to know that we appreciate you and your helpers for the friendly, professional care you provided. We think you have mastered the process of taking care of patients. The thorough discussion, clear instructions, and useful predictions sure helped reduce the anxiety. If you make it to this part of the map please let us know. We’ll leave the latchstring out for you.
~ Bud
I was referred by my doctor to Dr. Kirby for my shoulder. It ended up I needed surgery. Dr. Kirby explained what I could expect in terms of my range of motion after it was done. I’m happy to report that Dr. Kirby said it’s healing even better than expected. Everyone at the office has been great. Couldn’t ask for a friendlier place. I’d definitely recommend OPA.
~ John
I am a returning patient with Doctor Kirby, who successfully repaired my badly damaged left shoulder in 2008. I came to see Dr. Kirby again in October this year to receive his help with my other shoulder. He explained he needed an MRI done. He listened patiently to my serious concerns regarding the claustrophobia and then recommended your MRI department. At that MRI appointment I also met a great MRI technician as well. Great experience with Dr. Kirby and his team!
~ Lonnie
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