Day in the Life: Surgeon considers job an investment in the community
It's only 10 a.m., but Dr. Paul Rush has already performed a shoulder surgery.
Later, the orthopedic surgeon will do two knee replacements.
But for Rush, it's just an average Thursday.
Rush is a surgeon with Scotland Orthopaedics and Scotland County Memorial Hospital's chief of staff.
That means that on a typical day he does much more than see patients. He also meets with hospital administrators and doctors to resolve the types of problems that can arise when the business of running a hospital meets the business of healing.
"I consider it an honor to be in this position," he said. "I'm invested in the community, and I'm very fortunate to have a lot of bright, educated people to work with."
Rush, who is 53, is originally from Timmonsville, S.C., about an hour from Laurinburg. He came to Laurinburg in 1986.
Since then, he's been a vital part of the community, serving on the county's school board for 12 years and on the Board of Trustees for the Scotia Village retirement community for 10 years.
But Rush, who has three grown children with his wife, Judy, said his favorite role these days is that of grandfather to 17-month-old Francie.
"When you put my occupation, just say that I'm a proud grandpa," he said, smiling.