Robert M. Bernstein, MD

Robert Bernstein, M.D., serves as associate chief medical officer for Shriners Children's and interim chief of staff for Shriners Children's St. Louis. A nationally recognized pediatric orthopedic surgeon and healthcare leader, he helps advance clinical excellence, quality, safety and patient-centered care across the Shriners Children's health system.

Inspired by his father, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Bernstein developed a passion for medicine at an early age and knew he wanted to pursue a similar path. Following residency training, he completed a pediatric orthopedics fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital and a spine surgery fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston, gaining specialized expertise in the treatment of complex musculoskeletal conditions in children.

Dr. Bernstein began his career with Shriners Children's in Pasadena, where he was drawn to the organization's unique commitment to exceptional patient care, innovative research and medical education. Although subsequent career opportunities took him elsewhere, he remained deeply connected to the Shriners Children's mission and values.

His return to Shriners Children's came when he joined Shriners Children's Portland, where he served in both clinical and leadership roles and helped advance the organization's culture of collaboration, compassion and excellence. During his tenure, he played an important role in supporting high-quality care and strengthening the hospital's commitment to serving children and families throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Clinically, Dr. Bernstein specializes in pediatric orthopedic surgery, with particular expertise in spinal disorders and skeletal dysplasias. He also has a longstanding interest in global health and expanding access to specialized orthopedic care for children around the world.

In addition to his clinical and executive leadership roles, Dr. Bernstein is a former professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation at Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine, where he contributed to the education and mentorship of future orthopedic surgeons.

Today, through his leadership as associate chief medical officer and interim chief of staff at Shriners Children's St. Louis, Dr. Bernstein continues to champion the mission that first inspired him: improving children's lives through exceptional care, innovative research and the education of future healthcare professionals.