Paul Rizk, MD
Senior Associate Consultant
Mayo Clinic, FL
Member Since: 2018
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
The AAOS has consistently been a guiding resource throughout my training, helping me stay current with advances in orthopaedic care and surgical techniques. Each AAOS Annual Meeting has been an excellent opportunity to learn from leaders across subspecialties and see emerging technologies firsthand. The AAOS was also invaluable during my fellowship, particularly through the Accelerate Program, as I navigated the job search process.
As a Candidate Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
I utilize the clinical practice guidelines to support my decision-making and ground my care in evidence-based principles. The Annual Meeting is another essential resource, offering high-yield education and exposure to innovation across the field.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
Some of the best advice I’ve ever received came from Dr. Michael Huo at the end of medical school: “The first patient you have to treat is yourself.” That perspective has stayed with me and helps me remember that to effectively care for my patients, I need to maintain my own health and well‑being. While the demands of training and practice naturally fluctuate, that core principle—building a solid personal foundation to support others—has remained constant.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
To‑do lists have been my most effective productivity tool since college. They help me maintain focus, and I get a small sense of accomplishment each time I check something off. I’ve expanded this system into 3‑month, 6‑month, 12‑month, and 18‑month goals to keep my long‑term priorities in view, especially when day‑to‑day tasks become all‑consuming.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
I’m working on using technology more intentionally to increase efficiency. This includes digitizing my to‑do lists so they’re accessible from both home and work, and using machine learning tools to automate tasks that don’t require critical thinking.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
Hanging out with my 10-month-old son, science fiction novels, triathlons, video games.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I used to be a yoga instructor.