Independence Health System expands orthopedic and spine care in Butler and Clarion with addition of Dr. Steven Hand

BUTLER, Pa., Aug. 18, 2026 — Independence Health System has expanded access to orthopedic and spine care in Butler, Clarion, and surrounding communities with the addition of orthopedic surgeon Steven Hand, DO, MSMEd, CIME, to the medical staffs of Butler Memorial and Clarion hospitals. Dr. Hand is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with advanced fellowship training in spine surgery and reconstructive joint surgery.

Dr. Hand brings more than 20 years of medical experience and specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions affecting the bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues. His clinical interests include treating a wide range of spinal conditions, including herniated discs, cervical myelopathy, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spinal deformities, and traumatic and compression fractures of the spine.

Dr. Hand earned his medical degree from the University of Pikeville-Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine. After completing a preliminary year of general surgery training and an orthopedic surgery residency, he pursued fellowship training in adult reconstruction and total joint replacement at Cleveland Clinic. Most recently, he completed advanced fellowship training in spine surgery at the West Virginia University Health System, further expanding his expertise in the treatment of complex spinal conditions. 

"I am honored to join Independence Health System and serve patients throughout the region, ensuring they have access to expert orthopedic and spine care close to home," Dr. Hand said. "I look forward to helping patients relieve pain, regain mobility, and return to the activities that matter most to them."

Dr. Hand is accepting new patients at Independence Health System Orthopedics, 480 E. Jefferson St., Suite B, Butler, and 24 Doctors Lane, Suite 200, Clarion. To schedule an appointment, call 833-604-7214.

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Nationally recognized for quality care, Independence Health System comprises Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe and Westmoreland Hospitals with a combined bed count of 925. With more than 1,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 7,000 employees, the System is the third largest in western Pennsylvania serving a population base of 750,000 in a footprint spanning a multi-county region. 

The System includes tertiary programs rated among America’s best for cardiac care and surgery, earning accolades from a number of prestigious outlets and organizations. Locally owned and locally controlled, Independence Health System offers its patients low-cost, high-quality care across the care spectrum in such specialties as cardiology, cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, minimally invasive and robotic surgery, women’s health and obstetrics, emergency medicine, behavioral health and primary care. Its network of outpatient centers sees more than 1.2 million visits annually. The homecare division further supports patients at all stages of life with home health and hospice services. Learn more at www.independence.health.