AOC Proclamation Marks Six Decades Of Specialized Orthopedic Care, Community Leadership
ATHENS, Ga. – April 15, 2026
Athens Orthopedic Clinic (AOC), a healthcare leader in Northeast Georgia, proudly celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, marking decades of trusted orthopedic care and innovation. The Athens-Clarke County Georgia Unified Government issued the official AOC Proclamation on April 14 recognizing the clinic’s commitment to advancing orthopedic care and strengthening the community’s access to the very best orthopedic care.
Since 1966, Athens Orthopedic Clinic has evolved from a small practice into a comprehensive orthopedic network serving patients across 10 regional locations with advanced surgical capabilities, urgent care centers, therapy and rehabilitation services, and physician-led research. The milestone marks not only organizational growth but also Athens Orthopedic Clinic’s consistent positioning as a trusted leader in bone and joint care across Northeast Georgia.
“Sixty years is a testament to the dedication of our physicians, staff and the community’s trust in our care,” said Mike Boblitz, CEO. “Our roots in specialty orthopedics combined with today’s integrated approach position us as a leader in orthopedic care, from injury through recovery. At the end of the day, we’re focused on one mission: helping our neighbors get back to doing what they love.”
The clinic’s evolution reflects both the advancement of orthopedic medicine and Athens Orthopedic Clinic’s commitment to accessibility. Today, Athens Orthopedic Clinic operates multiple locations across Northeast Georgia, with services available 7 days a week as access and time matter for the growing community. The aim of Athens Orthopedic Clinic is to make healthcare better and more affordable with the region’s only private orthopedic surgery centers that offer savings up to 50% or more compared to a traditional hospital setting. Building upon this legacy, AOC opened the Joint and Spine Surgery Center in October, the first private center of its kind in Northeast Georgia, to expand access to vital services with high-quality surgical outcomes.
The Proclamation on April 14 included remarks and a formal presentation by Mayor Kelly Girtz of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County. Boblitz and the Athens Orthopedic Clinic team were recognized for their contributions to Northeast Georgia and the extended community.
“It’s an honor to celebrate this milestone at AOC Proclamation Day,” Boblitz said. “With a record year in 2025, our team continues to excel in offering expertise and accessibility to deliver the best orthopedic care in North Georgia for decades to come.”
For more information on Athens Orthopedic Clinic and the 60th anniversary, please visit athensorthopedicclinic.com.
About Athens Orthopedic Clinic
Founded in 1966, Athens Orthopedic Clinic is Northeast Georgia’s largest provider of orthopedics and sports medicine, serving more than 230,000 patients annually. With a team of 79 physicians, advanced practice providers, and outpatient therapists, AOC offers comprehensive orthopedic services including joint and spine care, ambulatory surgery, imaging, physical therapy, urgent care, and occupational medicine. Learn more at www.athensorthopedicclinic.com.
Media Contacts:
Kayla Phillips
Account Lead, Public Relations
See.Spark.Go
kayla.phillips@seesparkgo.com | 678-879-2486
Amy Wages
Director of Marketing, Training and Development
Athens Orthopedic Clinic
awages@athensorthopedicclinic.com | 706-433-3126
