Utpal N. Sandes

Dr. Utpal N. Sandesara is an esteemed Assistant Professor in Residence at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, where he holds joint appointments in the Division of General Internal Medicine-Health Services Research and the Global Health program at the UCLA International Institute. His academic pursuits are deeply rooted in qualitative research methodologies, which he employs to investigate complex issues such as bodily suffering, structural inequality, and the intricacies of medical care. Dr. Sandesara's current book project is a profound exploration of sex-selective abortion in India, a subject he approaches with a unique perspective gained from his clinic-based ethnographic research in Gujarat. This work reflects his commitment to understanding and addressing the nuanced challenges faced by marginalized communities in healthcare settings. In addition to his research on sex-selective abortion, Dr. Sandesara is actively engaged in studying physician burnout and its implications for healthcare delivery. He is particularly interested in the experiences of medical professionals who provide care under challenging conditions, and he seeks to develop strategies to mitigate burnout and improve the well-being of healthcare providers. Dr. Sandesara's research also extends to caregiving for disadvantaged patients, with a focus on those suffering from liver cirrhosis. He is dedicated to identifying and implementing effective solutions for managing high blood pressure within public healthcare systems, aiming to enhance the quality of care for vulnerable populations. As a clinician, Dr. Sandesara provides primary care services at Olive View-UCLA Medical Center, where he is committed to delivering compassionate and comprehensive care to vulnerable patients. His clinical practice is informed by his research, allowing him to address the multifaceted needs of his patients with empathy and expertise. Through his work, Dr. Sandesara continues to contribute significantly to the fields of medical care and global health, striving to create a more equitable healthcare system that addresses the needs of all individuals, particularly those who are most disadvantaged.