From Dental Surgery to Global Health Research

CAREER SNAPSHOTS

Education:

• Bachelor of Dental Surgery, MCODS Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (2018)
• Master of Science in Public Health, McGill University, Canada (2021)

Factors that helped in deciding the country:

• Quality of education (McGill ranked in the first 30 unis worldwide and the program is taught by world-famous/highly experienced epidemiologists and public health researchers)
• Lesser cost of living
• Easier immigration
• Language (English-speaking country)

From filling cavities to filling research gaps, Apoorva proves that whether you’re wielding a dental drill or crunching global health data, it’s all about making the world smile a little brighter!

First Job Post Switch:

• Internship at KEM Hospital, Pune & 1st full-time job at Research Insitute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal.

Current Role:

• Research Coordinator, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto

Favorite Part About US Healthcare:

• Strict and employee-friendly HR policies, set work times

Dislikes about US Healthcare:

• Lesser flexibility

Peer-Reviewed Publications

• Anand A, Vialard F, Esmail A, Ahmad Khan F, O’Byrne P, et al. (2024) Self-tests for COVID-19: What is the evidence? A living systematic review and meta-analysis (2020–2023). PLOS Global Public Health 4(2): e0002336.
• Vialard F, Anand A, Soo CL, Waal Ad, McGuire M, Carmona S, et al. Self-sampling strategies (with/without digital innovations) in populations at risk of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae: a systematic review and meta-analyses. Sexually Transmitted Infections 2023: sextrans-2022-055557.
• Bharadwaj, S., Anand, A., K, D., & Kathuria, A. (2021). Evaluation of knowledge, attitude, and practice of inhalation sedation in children amongst pedodontists and general dental practitioners in Mangalore, India. Indian Journal of Applied Research, 11 (10).

Connect with Dr. Juhi Joshy on LinkedIn or listen to her podcast on Spotify to explore more insights!

Introduction

Empowering health through knowledge, one study at a time.

This motto encapsulates Apoorva Anand’s dedication to improving global health.

Her career path showcases how passion and determination can lead to a fulfilling career transition in the healthcare sector.

Apoorva’s Academic Journey: From Dentistry to Public Health

Apoorva’s journey began with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from MCODS Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, which she completed in 2018.

However, her interests soon led her beyond clinical practice and towards the broader field of public health.

Driven by a desire for quality education and global exposure, Apoorva pursued her Master of Science in Public Health at McGill University, Canada, graduating in 2021.

“I chose McGill for its world-renowned program taught by famous epidemiologists and public health researchers,” Apoorva explains.

“The lower cost of living, easier immigration process, and English-speaking environment were additional factors that influenced my decision.” She adds.

A Smooth Transition into Public Health and Research

Her career switch began with an internship at KEM Hospital, Pune, followed by her first full-time position at the Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre in Montreal.

Currently, Apoorva is a Research Coordinator at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, where she applies her diverse skill set to impactful research projects.

Advancing Global Health Through Diverse Research Contributions

Apoorva’s commitment to advancing global health is evident in her impressive list of peer-reviewed publications. Her research contributions span a wide range of critical health issues.

• She co-authored a living systematic review and meta-analysis on COVID-19 self-tests, published in PLOS Global Public Health.
• Published research in Sexually Transmitted Infections examining self-sampling strategies for populations at risk of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhea.
• Additionally, her earlier work in the Indian Journal of Applied Research evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and practice of inhalation sedation in children among dental practitioners.

These publications not only showcase Dr. Apoorva’s research skills but also highlight her ability to contribute meaningfully to diverse areas of public health, from infectious diseases to dental practices.

Apoorva’s experience spans various aspects of public health research. She has worked on

• Developing policy guidelines for housing health
• Coordinated COVID-19 self-testing clinical trials
• Conducted literature reviews on digital self-sampling for various infectious diseases

Her volunteer work with initiatives like WeCanVax and IndiaCOVIDSOS further demonstrates her commitment to public health.

When asked about her favorite aspects of working in a corporate-like hospital environment, Apoorva said she appreciates “the strict and employee-friendly HR policies and set work times.”

However, she notes that “lesser flexibility” can be a drawback in such settings.

Embracing Work-Life Balance in Global Health

Outside of her professional life, Apoorva maintains a balanced lifestyle.

“I love dancing, swimming, and all nature-related activities like hiking and canoeing,” she shares, highlighting the importance of work-life balance in her career.

Apoorva’s journey from dental surgery to global health research illustrates the diverse opportunities available in the healthcare sector.

Her story serves as an inspiration for those considering a career switch, demonstrating that with passion and the right skills, it’s possible to make a significant impact in a new field.

“I believe in equitable access to healthcare, from health promotion and disease prevention to screening, diagnostics, and treatment,” Apoorva states.

Her goal is to develop interdisciplinary approaches to address pressing health issues at a global level, truly embodying her motto of bettering one life at a time.

Conclusion

For those contemplating a similar career transition, Apoorva’s path offers valuable insights into how to navigate such a change, when to make the leap, and why pursuing one’s true passions can lead to a rewarding career in global health research.