New Board Chair Announced

Pottstown Memorial Medical Center has named Richard P. Whittaker as Chairman of the Board. Dr. Whittaker is an orthopedic surgeon who has been on staff since 1974, and has been a member of many committees throughout the years, including: Executive Committee, 1983-1985; Board of Directors, 1988-1990, 2002-present; President, Medical Staff, 1992-1994; Chairman, Department of Surgery, 2000-2002; and Secretary, Board of Directors, 2002-2008. In addition, he has served in many positions in the Philadelphia Orthopedic Society, the Pennsylvania Orthopedic Society, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the Montgomery County Medical Society.

Dr. Whittaker earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Pennsylvania (1962 and 1966 respectively) and completed his internship and first year of residency at Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, and his orthopedic surgery residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. He was in the Army Reserve from 1967-2002 and served active duty from 1971-1974 at Gorgas Hospital, Canal Zone, Panama, and 1991 in Operation Desert Storm, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, serving as an orthopedic surgeon from January to March.

As one of Pottstown’s most respected physicians, he travels the globe lending a skilled hand to those in need. From tsunami volunteer work in Thailand to civic work here at home, Dr. Whittaker plays an active role in making a difference in people’s lives. He has been an active member of the Pottstown Rotary since 1987, serving on the Board of Directors from 1998-2002 and is currently serving as President of the Pottstown Rotary; Polio Plus Committee, District 7430, Chairman, 1986-present, where he raised $650,000; and most recently President Elect from 2006-2007. He earned the Rotary International Service Award, February 1996; the "Physicians Recognition Award," every three years from 1977-1998; and the Rotary International Service Above Self Award in 2004.

He is currently in practice with the Orthopedic Specialists of Pottstown, 1601 Medical Drive, Pottstown.