Alumni spotlight

Dr. Desai currently serves as the medical director for UT’s ground and flight EMS services. In addition, he has the unique experience of being selected as a program director and applying for a new emergency medicine residency program! His hospital was recently converted from a community facility to an academic facility with a new medical school starting in fall 2023.  Chico says, “Emergency medicine is an incredibly diverse specialty with so many different career options available to those who seek it.  All of my different experiences have been rewarding in their own ways and have offered enlightenment from different perspectives.”

When asked where he thinks the future will take him, Chico says, “Given the many moves I have already made in the early part of my career, over the next 10 years, I will probably still be in Tyler. My wife has already dictated we are not moving again (I like moving!).  Fortunately, I am at an institution that is growing into academics and I will likely be very busy, developing medical students and residents into bright physicians, along with the many other opportunities that will present from this transition.”

About UMMC's program, Chico says, “I consider myself very lucky to have been at such a great residency program.  I feel I was well prepared to work in any setting and have successfully done so.  With the knowledge and experience I gained, I have been able to take on many leadership roles that I would not have imagined myself doing.  Everything is yours for the taking, all you have to do is ask!”

Chico has been married to his wife, Hemali, for 12 years and they have one son, Shyam.  They love to watch movies, football, and basketball.  Even though they live in Texas, Chico reports, “We are lifelong fans of the New Orleans Saints and the LSU Tigers!”