Until recently, patients needing surgical orthopedic procedures had to travel out of town for medical care. That’s not the case, any longer.

Dr. Robert Liljeberg has joined the Troy Regional Medical Center staff as the county’s only full-time orthopedic surgeon.

Liljeberg joined TRMC on Dec. 2 from a practice in Hickory, N.C. and said he’s already pleased with his choice to move to Troy.

“I’ve found the hospital and the people here very welcoming,” Liljeberg siad. “Troy has everything you need and there are so many nice people.”

Liljeberg grew up in New Orleans working for his father’s pharmacy. He said he knew from an early age, he wanted to work in the medical field but needed to find his niche.

When he attended Tulane University he played football and rapidly realized orthopedics was the right choice for him.

“It’s a very satisfying and rewarding career,” Liljeberg shared. “We don’t deal in death and it’s not often there is an issue such as cancer. Very rarely are there times when we deal with something that isn’t a functional problem and it’s nice to be able to restore someone’s zest for life.”

Liljeberg attended medical school at Louisiana State University and his orthopedic residency was in Memphis, Tenn. After that, Liljeberg joined a practice in Hickory and served patients there for the last 18 years.

Moving to Troy, Liljeberg is transitioning from an 18-man orthopedic practice to flying solo at TRMC. However, that’s a welcomed change for the area’s new doctor.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know my patients on a more individual level instead of being in a larger place where you don’t always get to build relationships,” Liljeberg said.

And Liljeberg has nothing but praise for the people he’s already worked with at TRMC while performing two surgeries.

“The OR staff here is exceptional,” Liljeberg shared. “It is true teamwork.”

In his off time, Liljeberg enjoys the outdoors. He said he likes to bike, run and fish – and there are plenty of opportunities to do that in Pike County.

Liljeberg is married to Pam and the couple has three children – Robert, 20, Erika, 18, and Madison, 16.

Referrals aren’t necessary to see Liljeberg. Patients may call 670-5475 to set up an appointment.