Dr. Thomas Harbert Joins Ozarks Healthcare Orthopedics and Spine

Ozarks Healthcare is excited to welcome Thomas Harbert, MD, an experienced orthopedic surgeon, to its Orthopedics and Spine team. Harbert brings nearly three decades of expertise in orthopedics and sports medicine, with a passion for hands-on care and helping patients achieve better mobility and quality of life.

Harbert’s journey to medicine is as unique as his dedication to patient care. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, and raised in Greeley, Colorado, he initially pursued a career in education, earning a teaching certificate in high school science. However, a mentor encouraged him to explore medicine after recognizing his aptitude for science and care. Harbert’s decision to switch paths was solidified after observing an open-heart surgery - an experience that inspired him to pursue a career in healthcare.

Harbert graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University and earned his medical degree from the University of Nebraska. He completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Oklahoma. During his training, he developed a passion for orthopedics, driven by his love for hands-on procedures and his own experiences as a college athlete.

Harbert’s career includes extensive experience in sports medicine and general orthopedics. He served as Director of Sports Medicine for Northern State University in South Dakota for 15 years, where he provided care for collegiate athletes and local high schools. In addition to treating sports injuries, Harbert is skilled in performing rotator cuff repairs, total joint replacements, fracture care, and other orthopedic surgeries.

When asked about his decision to join Ozarks Healthcare, Harbert cited the welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community he and his significant other felt during their visit.

“From the moment we arrived, it felt like family. Everyone we met - from the team of orthopedic surgeons to administration - made us feel at home. The natural beauty of the Ozarks and the exceptional facilities at Ozarks Healthcare made the decision an easy one,” Harbert said.

“Dr. Harbert’s expertise and dedication to providing compassionate, high-quality orthopedic care make him a tremendous asset to our team and community,” Lacey Carter, Ozarks Healthcare Chief Operating Officer, said. “We are thrilled to welcome him and look forward to the positive impact he will have on our patients.”

Harbert is now accepting new patients at Ozarks Healthcare Orthopedics and Spine. To schedule an appointment, call 417-256-1745 or visit https://www.ozarkshealthcare.com/services/ortho/.

Ozarks Healthcare is a not-for-profit health system that serves more than 160,000 residents across south-central Missouri and northern Arkansas. With its main campus residing in West Plains, Missouri, the health system offers a full spectrum of healthcare for all ages through its 114-bed hospital, behavioral health, therapies, pharmacies, rehabilitation, and home care services, along with specialty and family medicine clinics. Ozarks Healthcare has rural locations across an eight-county service area and is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations.

Thomas Harbert, MD, Ozarks Healthcare Orthopedics and Spine