Dr. James Solmen to Retire as Youngstown Orthopaedic Associates Joins Cleveland Clinic

Solmen has had a long career in the Mahoning Valley, where he is a native of Youngstown, according to his practice biography. He is described in his professional profiles as the only fellowship-trained orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon in the area. Solmen earned his medical degree from the Ohio State University College of Medicine and completed a fellowship in orthopaedic foot and ankle surgery at the Florida Orthopaedic Institute.

One report noted that Solmen "is deeply grateful for the trust and confidence his patients have placed in him over the years." Patients of Dr. Solmen will be able to continue their care with other providers at the practice following his retirement, according to announcements.

The integration will convert Youngstown Orthopaedic Associates’ facilities into Cleveland Clinic locations. The offices in Poland and Warren/Howland will become Cleveland Clinic Medical Outpatient Centers, while the Boardman office will transition to an Ortho Express Care for imaging and urgent orthopedic needs, according to a report from the State Journal.

The acquisition is proceeding amid a legal challenge. A breach-of-contract lawsuit has been filed in Mahoning County court related to the deal, according to Hoodline. Becker's Spine Review reported that the suit was filed against two physician-owners, including James Jamison, alleging they violated contractual obligations by agreeing to sell the practice's assets to Cleveland Clinic. The provided sources do not name Dr. Solmen in connection with the lawsuit.