Since 2019, Stefanie has served as the Physician Assistant for the Joint Replacement Program at St. Clair Health, working exclusively in the hospital setting. She is a vital member of the inpatient orthopaedic team, caring for patients undergoing hip and knee replacement surgery as well as those admitted with acute hip fractures. Patients and families meet Stefanie during their hospital stay, where she provides thorough medical and medication reviews, coordinates preoperative planning, assists in surgery, and manages postoperative care and discharge planning. Her approachable style and clinical expertise help patients feel reassured and supported throughout their hospitalization.
Beyond direct patient care, Stefanie plays a key role in the continued development of the Joint Replacement Program. She monitors monthly outcomes, coordinates interdisciplinary team meetings, and oversees the ongoing certification of The Joint Commission’s Advanced Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Certification. She also collaborates closely with Dr. Brett Perricelli on updating and implementing evidence-based protocols, and she is actively involved in planning and evaluating the equipment necessary to maintain the highest standards of joint replacement care.
Prior to joining St. Clair Health, Stefanie gained broad surgical experience in orthopaedic trauma, general surgery/trauma, and plastic surgery, strengthening her perioperative management skills and ability to work seamlessly with surgical teams. She earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Marietta College after graduating magna cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine. She maintains NCCPA certification along with BLS, ACLS, and PALS credentials.
Dedicated to advancing her field, Stefanie is an active member of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) and has participated in several of its national meetings, bringing new insights and innovations back to the program at St. Clair.
Originally from St. Louis, Stefanie now calls Pittsburgh home. She and her husband, Josh Freeman, enjoy snowboarding, fitness, golfing, and spending time with friends and her Tibetan Mastiff dog, Woodrow. Her professional and personal dedication reflects her passion for helping patients recover safely, regain independence, and return to the activities they love.
