Healthy Desai, MD, MS
Orthopaedic Surgeon, Speciality in Hand Surgery and Sports Medicine
Healthy Bone and Joint Center in Ridgecrest & The Los Angeles Bone and Joint Institute
Member Since: 2017
How has AAOS supported your career?
AAOS has been my go-to for staying sharp (pun intended). It keeps me updated on everything from surgical breakthroughs to policy shifts. Between the latest research, clinical guidelines, and connecting with other folks who also believe power tools belong in an OR, it's helped me stay current, stay connected, and avoid falling behind on all the things med school never warned us about.
Favorite AAOS Resource?
Hands down, the Annual Meeting. It’s like Comic-Con for orthos, where brilliant minds meet, new tools are demoed, and someone always ends up saying, “Why didn’t I think of that?” It’s also where we trade notes on implants and surgical hacks with friends, colleagues from around the globe.
Best Advice You’ve Ever Gotten?
“You can always delay a surgery, but you can’t undo it.” That, and the humbling reminder that sometimes patients do well despite us, not because of us. Keeps the ego in check.
Your Go-To Productivity Trick?
Train your team like you’d train for surgery: with skill, patience, and good coffee. Delegation only works when your people are sharp and confident, and it’s your job to make that happen. If you want to avoid being the bottleneck in your own OR, invest in your team. Cross-training, clear protocols, and an espresso machine go a long way.
One Habit You’re Trying to Build?
Clocking out mentally when I clock out physically. Trying to give more quality time to family.
What Are Your Hobbies?
Cricket (my first love), gardening (for the zen), and traveling to new places where I can try adventurous activities, sample different cuisines, and take in unfamiliar landscapes and lifestyles.
Fun Fact Most People Don’t Know?
My brother’s name is Wealthy. No, really. So when people say, “Health is Wealth,” I just point at us.