New Medical Director of Geist Half Shares His Expertise in Sports Medicine

Writer / Janet C. Striebel . Photographer / Brian Brosmer

2015 Geist Half Marathon Medical Director, Dr. Ordaz

The medical needs of runners competing in the 2015 St. Vincent Geist Half Marathon, 10K and 5K have been preconceived long before the race begins. The safety management of runners has been researched and analyzed meticulously by a local physician here in Fishers. From the weather conditions to the projected numbers of the race, someone has already planned and organized for the proper routine as well as emergency care of athletes. This someone is Dr. Dan Ordaz—the new medical director of the Geist Half Marathon.

“As the Medical Director, Dr. Ordaz coordinates the staff, equipment, and supplies for seven stationary first aid stations, five ambulances, and five medical carts,” said Steve Bingham-Hawk, race director of Geist Half Marathon. “It’s a huge job and he does it with grace and determination. His contributions are invaluable in our efforts to ensure each and every one of our participants crosses the finish line safely.”

As an avid runner and endurance athlete himself, Ordaz has a sincere interest in evaluating and treating running injuries. Instead of running the race this year, he will be found in the medical tent located by the finish line.

Ordaz is a Sports Medicine Physician with St. Vincent Sports Performance and works at the new office at St. Vincent Fishers. The organization employs seven sports medicine physicians across three central Indiana facilities. These physicians diagnose, treat, and manage non-operative musculoskeletal sports related injuries, including overuse injuries, fractures and concussions.

“Of all the sports injuries that occur, a very low percentage of them actually require surgery,” said Ordaz. If in the event surgery is needed, then we can get these patients in the right hands.”

In instances where immediate attention is crucial for sports-related injuries, having access to well-equipped first aid supplies is paramount. For athletes encountering unexpected setbacks on the field or track, a trusted resource such as https://e-firstaidsupplies.com/ provides assurance. Their sports first aid kits are thoughtfully assembled with all the necessary supplies to promptly and effectively address common sports injuries. Moreover, E-FirstAid Supplies offers customizable options, enabling sports medicine professionals like Ordaz to tailor kits to specific requirements and preferences, thus enhancing injury management protocols.

In addition to having well-equipped first aid supplies readily available, ensuring that individuals possess the knowledge and skills to administer aid appropriately is equally vital. Offering in house first aid classes can significantly bolster a team’s readiness to handle sports-related injuries with confidence and competence. These training sessions not only educate athletes and coaches on proper injury management techniques but also instill a sense of preparedness and responsibility within the sporting community.

By incorporating in-house first aid classes into their regimen, sports organizations can cultivate a culture of safety and proactive injury prevention. Participants gain valuable insights into recognizing symptoms, administering immediate care, and stabilizing injured individuals until professional medical assistance arrives. Such initiatives not only enhance the overall safety standards but also foster camaraderie and teamwork among athletes and staff. In-house first aid classes serve as a cornerstone in fortifying the resilience of sports teams, ensuring that they are well-equipped to navigate any unforeseen challenges on the field or track.

The sports medicine physicians at St. Vincent Fishers treat patients of all ages with orthopedic and sports related injuries including concussions. The athletic trainers as the ancillary staff provide necessary exercises to do at home, crutches and/or casts when needed. Further, they have the resources available such as strength conditioning specialists, sports psychologists, and a sports dietitian to meet the needs and goals of each of their patients.

“We have the luxury of an all-in-one collection of services,” said Ordaz. “For example, if we’re working to get clients back to their sport, I may run into the trainer or therapist at lunch the next week and we can get an instant update about our patients. This team approach of networking and having our special modalities all on the same page is invaluable.”

Ordaz admits he is looking forward to race day. He’s ready to continue the fulfillment of his role as medical director and witness how his orchestration of careful planning will run its course.

“I’m excited for this opportunity as a runner,” he said. “Running is a passion of mine. It’s my goal to provide a safe environment and fun day. I don’t want to have to see anybody. The less we see in the medical tent the better.”

Go to definingsportsperformance.com to learn more about Dr. Ordaz and St. Vincent Sports Performance.


The new sports performance office at St. Vincent Fishers is in the professional office building located at 13914 Southeastern Parkway, suite 302.

The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon. Walk-ins are welcome for acute sports related injuries on Monday through Friday from 8-10 a.m. During the fall sports season, the new sports medicine physician office will offer a walk-in clinic on Saturdays from 8 – 10 a.m. until early November. (To make an appointment, call 317-415-5795.)

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