OCOM adds two key physicians to team

The Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine has added two key physicians to its team in Horizon West. 

Dr. Will Kirby has joined the Global Strategic Development Team, while Dr. Alpesh Desai will support the school in taking its research program to the next level. 

Kirby is the chief medical officer of LaserAway, the nation’s leading aesthetic dermatology group, and he is known for his engaging presence on unscripted television programming, including a prime-time NBC show set to air in early 2025. He joins OCOM bringing his passion for medical education and a commitment to expanding health care access globally.

"I am an alum of Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, a long-time colleague of OCOM's founding dean Dr. Robert Hasty — not only during medical school but when he served as my chief intern during my first postgraduate internship year — and Dr. Desai served as my chief resident during dermatology training," Kirby said. "So, getting the opportunity to now work so closely with these leaders, in Florida no less, really closes the circle on my career in health care."

Hasty said she and Kirby share a unique bond rooted in their time together at Nova Southeastern University. 

"Though our paths have been vastly different — mine centered in academia and his in both medicine and media — we've always shared a dedication to advancing health care and medical education," Hasty said. "His dynamic career and passion for dermatology add incredible value to our mission at OCOM. I’m thrilled to be working alongside him again, this time to shape the next generation of physicians."

Desai is a board-certified dermatologist and graduate of Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. He is the owner of Heights Dermatology and Aesthetic Center and leads one of the largest privately owned dermatology practices in the United States. 

He has expressed his excitement to be part of the school's transformative health care initiative. 

“It’s an honor to work alongside Dr. Kiran C. Patel and Dr. Kirby, who is not only a close friend but an inspiring leader in both aesthetics and education," he said. 

Desai aims to support OCOM in taking its research program to the next level alongside OCOM Director of Research Dr. Latha Ganti.

Dr. Kiran Patel, a driving force behind OCOM, has a strong commitment to improving health care access, especially within underserved communities across Florida, India and Zambia. He sees the establishment of OCOM as a pivotal step toward addressing gaps in medical education and health care accessibility. 

“This initiative aligns with our goal of addressing deficiencies in the U.S. health care system while expanding educational resources for aspiring medical professionals globally," Patel said. 

Adding Kirby and Desai highlights OCOM’s commitment to fostering innovative, globally-minded medical education. Together, these esteemed professionals bring a wealth of expertise, network and drive that will enhance OCOM’s influence and further its mission to transform health care education.

To learn more about OCOM, click here.