Meet Dr. Joshua Mares

From his first consultation to the final post-operative check-in, Dr. Joshua Mares, MD, is redefining what patients can expect from orthopedic care in rural Colorado. Known for his precise surgical technique and whole-patient approach, Dr. Mares has quickly become an integral part of the nationally recognized team at Colorado Advanced Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Spine (CAO) in Meeker.

One patient, Shirley C. of Grand Junction, called her experience with Dr. Mares life-changing.

“After three months of hip pain and not getting any answers, I chose Colorado Advanced Orthopedics because of their outstanding patient care and surgical results—even though it meant driving to Meeker,” Shirley said.

On her first visit, Dr. Mares identified a previously undiagnosed fracture in her femur, in addition to her hip condition. He explained her surgical options clearly, took time to answer her questions, and performed a total hip replacement that helped her return to an active lifestyle.

“He didn’t just operate and move on—he personally checked in with me after surgery. I’m feeling great, getting stronger every day, and getting back to the activity I enjoy,” she said. “If you’re looking for the best orthopedic care for a hip or knee replacement, it’s definitely worth the drive from Grand Junction to Meeker.”

Dr. Mares grew up in Colorado, living in communities across the state—including Denver, Littleton, Castle Rock, and Fort Morgan. He earned his medical degree at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the same institution, where he served as chief resident. He then completed a highly specialized fellowship in adult hip and knee reconstruction at Ortho San Antonio, gaining advanced expertise in total joint replacement.

Though his training took him across the country, his return to Colorado is rooted in his passion for serving real people in real communities.

“Practicing in this region is particularly rewarding because of the hardworking, genuine people who make up the community,” Dr. Mares said. “I deeply value their resilience and dedication, and it motivates me every day to provide exceptional care tailored to their active lifestyles.”

Dr. Mares describes himself not only as a surgeon, but also as a coach—someone who equips his patients with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to heal and thrive.

“My approach to patient care centers on building meaningful and lasting relationships,” he said. “I have a deep passion for optimizing every aspect of perioperative care—factors like nutrition, physical therapy, pain management, and overall wellness—that significantly influence surgical outcomes.”

His decision to join CAO was equally personal and professional.

“What drew me to join Colorado Advanced Orthopedics was the exceptional practice developed by Dr. Borchard,” said Dr. Mares. “His dedication to providing compassionate and individualized patient care resonated deeply with me.”

Dr. Mares began seeing patients in late summer 2025, during a period of continued national recognition for both CAO and its parent organization, Pioneers Medical Center (PMC).

“We’re proud to welcome Dr. Mares to the CAO team,” said Dr. Kevin Borchard, Chief Surgical Officer. “His exceptional training, deep Colorado roots, and genuine commitment to personalized care make him an ideal addition to our practice.”

“At Pioneers Medical Center, we continuously strive to elevate care for our rural Colorado communities,” added Liz Sellers, PMC’s Chief Executive Officer. “Dr. Mares’s arrival strengthens our commitment to providing advanced orthopedic services right here at home.”

That commitment has paid off. In 2026, Healthgrades recognized PMC among America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement, awarded it the Joint Replacement Excellence Award, and issued Five-Star Ratings for both hip and knee replacement. The hospital has received multiple national honors each year since 2023, including the Outstanding Patient Experience Award in both 2024 and 2025.