Dr. Michael Wimink, MD

Director

Dr. Michael Wilmink is an orthopaedic surgeon and healthcare operator whose governance experience spans surgical facilities, device innovation, and multi‑stakeholder healthcare negotiations. He is a partner at OrthoArizona, where he serves on the Research Committee and is the Director of the Total Joint Service Line. A recognized innovator in hip replacement surgery, he was an early pioneer of the muscle-sparing anterior approach, introducing it to Phoenix, Arizona, in 2007. He continues to teach the technique to surgeons across the United States through lectures and hands-on training programs.

In 2025, Dr. Wilmink played a central role in leading the complex transaction that transitioned OASIS Hospital to Arizona Specialty Hospital under physician ownership. This multifaceted deal required coordinated negotiations with physicians, hospital leadership, and commercial and government payers.

Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Wilmink contributes to orthopaedic device innovation as a surgeon designer for NextStep Arthropedix. He has helped bring two FDA approved hip replacement systems to market, with a total knee system planned for clinical release in 2026. His leadership extends across the Arizona medical community through his board service at Arizona Specialty Hospital and the Gateway Outpatient Surgical Center.

At Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Wilmink serves as a director and contributes to governance oversight through his role as a member of the Board’s Compensation Committee. He has served on the Board since 2013.

Dr. Wilmink completed his undergraduate degree in Physiological Sciences at UCLA, on a scholarship as a All American water polo player. He earned his Medical Degree and completed his Orthopaedic Surgical Residency at the University of British Columbia. He is also active in community initiatives such as Phoenix Thunderbird and contributes to hosting the WM Phoenix Open PGA Tour event, which has generated more than $226 million for local Phoenix charities.

Dr. Wilmink brings deep surgeon led innovation expertise and practical operational insight into musculoskeletal care. His experience spans clinical practice, FDA cleared product development, and governance across surgical facilities and provider organizations.