Dr. Kevin Schoenfelder Male • United States of America

Dr. Kevin Schoenfelder, a renowned orthopedic spine surgeon, recently concluded a distinguished 45-year career marked by significant contributions to the advancement of musculoskeletal medicine. His dedication to refining surgical techniques and his deep commitment to patient care have made him a respected figure in the medical community, earning him accolades for his clinical excellence and compassionate approach.

Born and raised in Minnesota, Kevin's academic path began at Macalester College in St. Paul, where he pursued his passion for biology, earning a Bachelor of Arts in 1974. He continued his education at the University of Minnesota, completing a Master's in Quantitative Genetics in 1975. This advanced study provided a robust foundation for his medical studies at the University of Minnesota Medical School, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) in 1979. He was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honors Society during his medical education, highlighting his exceptional academic performance.

After medical school, Dr. Schoenfelder began his postgraduate training with an internship at the University of California, San Francisco, from 1979 to 1980. He then completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Washington in 1984, where he was recognized for his research prowess, receiving the Best Resident Paper award.

Following his residency, Kevin transitioned into a teaching role as an Instructor of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Washington. His commitment to medical education extended beyond the United States; he served as a Traveling Faculty member at the University of Hokkaido in Japan in 1984 and undertook a spine and pediatric orthopedics fellowship at the University of Hong Kong in 1985.

Throughout his career, Dr. Schoenfelder focused on pioneering efforts in spinal surgery, particularly his research on spinal fusion techniques and developing anterior fixation techniques for spinal fractures using the Kaneda device. His clinical and research contributions were frequently highlighted at major medical conferences, including the Scoliosis Research Society.

In 1985, Kevin began his private practice at Puget Sound Spine Associates. He eventually moved to the Franciscan Spine Group in 2008, where he continued to practice until his retirement in 2018. His dedication to patient care was consistently recognized with 5-star Patient Satisfaction Awards each quarter from 2008 until his retirement.

Orthopedic surgery, mainly focusing on the musculoskeletal system, entails diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders that affect movement and stability. Dr. Schoenfelder specialized in surgeries that alleviated pain and significantly enhanced mobility, improving his patient's quality of life.

Beyond his clinical achievements, Dr. Kevin Peter Schoenfelder, MD, has been a committed philanthropist, supporting various charitable organizations, including the Greater Peninsula Land Trust and Planned Parenthood, and cultural and environmental groups like the Burke Museum and the Sierra Club.

Since retiring in 2018, Kevin has continued to lead an active lifestyle, engaging in hobbies such as gardening, hiking, scuba diving, and birdwatching. He remains a vital part of his community, coaching local sports teams and playing an active role in the lives of his six grandchildren. Through his enduring commitment to health, wellness, and community engagement, he exemplifies a well-lived life, continuing to inspire those around him with his dedication to improving lives inside and outside the medical field.