Profile: Gary Dix, MD, MBA, FRSC
Most physicians know that South Africa turns out some stellar physicians, and it’s not uncommon for the U.S. to be a beneficiary. Such is the case with Gary Dix, MD, MBA, FRSC. Dr. Dix was born and raised in South Africa, where he completed his medical school training. He emigrated to Canada in 1987, where he worked as a primary care physician, before entering a neurosurgery residency in Calgary, Alberta. Upon completion, he was the first fellow to graduate from the Foothills Hospital Ortho/Neuro Spine program.
He and his family moved to the USA in 2000 and he has spent most of his professional career in Annapolis, MD, where he is a founding partner in Maryland Brain, Spine + Pain. He also maintains an interest in teaching and research, and has worked with industry to develop new and innovative techniques in spine surgery.
AngelMD is grateful to have Dr. Dix on its Clinical Advisory Board and I had the opportunity to learn a bit more about Dr. Dix through a Q&A format.
Q: How did you decide to go into medicine?
A: I was inspired by our family doctor, a humble man who worked hard for his patients, made house calls and showed his compassion and kindness every day.
Q: What’s one of the best things about your career as a physician?
A: Having the ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around me—both patients and co-workers.
Q: Do you have a favorite hobby?
A: I enjoy collecting and rehabbing sports memorabilia (mostly golfing).
Q: If you could wave a magic wand and improve one thing about the healthcare industry…big or small, what would come to mind?
A: I would reverse the shrinking the distance between patient and doctor, which has been widened by bureaucratic and commercial special interest groups.
Q: What was the best vacation you ever took?
A: There are several that stand out, but the Cinque Terra in Liguria, Italy with side trip to Tuscany was amazing.
Q: What’s the biggest change you have seen in the last 10 years in your specialty?
A: There has been a steady expansion of robotic surgery platforms and gene therapy options for many orphan diseases.
Q: Share a bit more about some of your inspirations?
A: The Neurosurgery Dept at Baragwaneth hospital in Soweto, South Africa. They are inspiring men and women who love their work and the people they serve. They’ve achieved so much with limited resources.
Q: Do you have a favorite movie?
A: It’s a tie: Shawshank Redemption & Miller’s Crossing
Q: Do you have a favorite podcast besides Innovation4Alpha?
A: Messari’s Unqualified Opinions
Q: What social media platform do you use most? And for what?
A: I use Instagram; so I can keep up with my children.
