Presented by Commons Clinic
What do you get when you combine a surgical robotics enthusiast, a high-volume Orthopedic Surgeon, a health tech expert, and a published thought leader? You get Dr. Prem Ramkumar—a modern-day polymath redefining what it means to be a physician in the 21st century. In this week’s episode of The Surgeon’s Record, we explore Prem’s unconventional path, from childhood lab intern to orthopedic innovator.
Key Insights from Our Conversation with Dr. Prem Ramkumar
🛠Tinker - The Tech Enthusiast
Prem’s journey began in the lab of Professor Harry McKellop, the pioneer behind ultra-highly cross-linked polyethylene in hip arthroplasty. That early exposure to orthopedic innovation sparked a lifelong curiosity about how tech can enhance patient care. Today, Prem brings that mindset to his clinical practice—meeting patients where they are by integrating digital tools and modernizing the care experience. He also channels that energy into writing for Forbes and advising startups at the intersection of orthopedics and technology.
🧵Tailor - The Surgical Craftsman
With a clear vision for his future practice, Prem completed fellowships in both joint replacement and sports medicine—an uncommon (but strategic) combination. His goal was to create a holistic, full-spectrum hip and knee practice—from early interventions to complex reconstructions and salvage procedures. Through thoughtful evaluation and management, Prem tailors solutions to each patient’s needs, blending cutting-edge tools like robotics with clinical nuance.
🪖Soldier - The Clinician on the Frontlines
Prem doesn’t just talk the talk; he walks the walk. Our conversation covered his decision to enter private practice, the realities of launching in a competitive market like Los Angeles, and his partnership with Commons Clinic. He shared a candid perspective on navigating a fragmented healthcare system where insurance, bureaucracy, and real-world complexity too often dictate care. It’s a battle, but one Prem faces head-on.
⚕️Surgeon - The Synthesizer
Prem brings it all together—tech, clinical care, communication, and strategy. He’s part of a new generation of physicians capable of moving comfortably between roles. As medicine stands on the crossroads of technology, frontline challenges, and an evolving system, the future belongs to physicians and surgeons capable of adapting and evolving. Prem understands this and serves as a bellwether for the next generation of physicians shaping the future. Instead of running from the challenges of healthcare, doctors like Prem will forge a path forward.
My conversation with Prem was a reminder that the future of healthcare lies with those bold enough to weave technology, innovation, and frontline care together. Instead of burning out, he’s blazing new trails—like his partnership with Commons Clinic. Prem’s story proves that it is possible to bridge real-world care with clinical innovation—and to thrive while doing it. The next generation of physician-leaders is already here.
Ben Schwartz, MD, MBA
Editor-in-Chief, The Surgeon’s Record
Commons Clinic Senior Clinical Fellow
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