Balancing the Scales: Dr Meghan Dares Featured by the Australian Orthopaedic Association for International Women’s Day
As part of its International Women’s Day 2026 campaign, “Balance the Scales,” the Australian Orthopaedic Association (AOA) has featured Joint Vision Orthopaedic Group’s Chief Clinical Officer, Dr Meghan Dares, highlighting her journey in orthopaedic surgery and reflections on leadership, mentorship and the evolving face of the profession.
Orthopaedic surgery has historically had one of the lowest proportions of female practitioners among medical specialties, and the AOA’s campaign aims to highlight the role visibility, mentorship and inclusive leadership play in shaping the future of the field.
Dr Meghan Dares and Joint Vision colleague Chounlamountry after taking part in a fun run with their children in Shellharbour last year.
Key Reflections from Dr Dares’ Contribution
In the article, Dr Dares reflects on several themes that have shaped her career in orthopaedics:
The importance of mentorship
Early mentors played a critical role in encouraging her to pursue orthopaedic surgery, helping her recognise the profound impact the specialty can have on patients’ mobility and quality of life.
Visibility matters
As Dr Dares notes, representation plays a powerful role in shaping career pathways for young doctors. Seeing women operating, leading departments and contributing to research helps expand what feels possible for the next generation of surgeons.
Leadership beyond representation
Through her role at Joint Vision Orthopaedic Group, Dr Dares has helped develop a multidisciplinary orthopaedic model that integrates surgery, imaging, physiotherapy and rehabilitation — reflecting the growing importance of team-based care and communication in achieving strong patient outcomes.
A focus on modern orthopaedic care
Her work in minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery, particularly bunion correction and forefoot deformity, reflects broader advances in surgical techniques designed to improve recovery and patient experience.
Closing
International Women’s Day provides an opportunity not only to recognise progress within the profession, but also to reflect on how mentorship, visibility and leadership continue to shape the future of orthopaedics.
👉 Read Dr Meghan Dares’ full article on the Australian Orthopaedic Association website:
https://aoa.org.au/for-patients/diversity/orthopaedic-diversity/iwd-2026