The Oxford Dictionary defines wanderlust as "a strong desire to travel." Just underneath that definition is a sample sentence using the word: "a man consumed by wanderlust." I am that man. My travels are not just about moving from one place to another, but about the sense of wonder and discovery that each new destination brings.
I love to travel. This simple statement is no surprise to the people who know me, the countless patients I've shared my adventures with, or those who have read my blogs for a while. Yet, I also believe strongly that my zest for adventure has profoundly influenced my professional career as an orthopedic surgeon.
One rewarding aspect of the intersection between my travel experiences and medical expertise is the exposure to other cultures that my adventures bring – specifically regarding how communities outside of the United States address the healthcare needs of their citizens. I've experienced the Far East's bustling and technologically advanced hospitals and the most remote and simple clinics of indigenous cultures. Each experience has been a lesson, teaching me about the diversity and innovation of healthcare practices around the world.
Connecting with other orthopedic surgeons worldwide is another significant gain that my love of travel has spurred. The connections I have made with doctors from different cultures and ways of life have fostered collaborations, knowledge sharing, and a pursuit of excellence in medicine that I don't think I would have otherwise gained had I not sought it out in other parts of the world. I firmly believe that learning from others is critical to self-improvement, and I can confidently attest that I wouldn't be the surgeon I am today if it weren't for meeting some of the brightest minds in my field who weren't already in my own backyard.
There is beauty and diversity on this planet we call Earth. Experiencing other regions of the globe beyond the United States has cultivated an empathy and cultural sensitivity in me that I am humbled by and that I try, every single day, to bring to my patients. I believe that understanding and respecting the unique needs and beliefs of my diverse patient population is not just a part of my job, but a fundamental aspect of providing effective and compassionate care.
While traveling can be challenging at times, especially when balancing work and personal commitments, I have always found ways to overcome these challenges. The rewards far outweigh the difficulties for me. The experiences I've gained, the connections I've made, and the memories I've created have enriched my life in countless ways. As an orthopedic surgeon, travel has made me a more well-rounded, compassionate, and effective healthcare provider to the patients I care for.