Dr. Richard Birkett
Colorectal and General Surgeon
Beverly, Massachusetts, United States
About Dr. Richard Birkett
Dr. Richard Birkett, MD, MBA, is a board-certified colorectal and general surgeon based in Beverly, Massachusetts. He is a member of Essex Surgical Associates and is affiliated with Beth Israel Lahey Health and Mass General Brigham. Dr. Birkett specializes in minimally invasive techniques, including robotic and laparoscopic surgery, with a focus on colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and other gastrointestinal conditions.
Dr. Birkett earned his medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine in 2012 and completed his general surgery residency at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, where he served as an administrative chief resident. He pursued a fellowship in colorectal surgery at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine. He also holds an MBA from the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Isenberg School of Management.
Dr. Birkett began his career as a faculty surgeon at the University of Maryland School of Medicine before joining the surgical staff at Tufts Medical Center. He later transitioned to Essex Surgical Associates, where he continues to practice. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Birkett has experience in medical device marketing, product development, and sustainability initiatives within healthcare.
His professional memberships include the American College of Surgeons, the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons. Dr. Birkett is also an active researcher, having authored multiple peer-reviewed publications on colorectal surgery, gastrointestinal diseases, and surgical education.
Areas of Focus
Career Background
Education
Media
Press
Awards & Recognition
- Winning Paper – Pennsylvania Association Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Research Symposium – Pennsylvania Association Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, May 2018
- American College of Surgeons Award for Exemplary Teaching Certificate of Outstanding Merit – American College of Surgeons, June 2017
- Lahey Medical Center Award for Excellence in Medical Student Training – Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, June 2017
- Lahey Medical Center Outstanding Academic Achievement Award – Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, June 2016
- Book Award – Top ABSITE Score in General Surgery Residency – Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, June 2014
- Tufts Class of 2014 Housestaff Award for Excellence in Teaching – Tufts University School of Medicine, May 2014
- Class of 2012 Merck Manual Clinical Excellence Award – Drexel University College of Medicine, May 2012
- Drexel 2009 Community Service Award – Drexel University College of Medicine, May 2009
Licenses & Certifications
- Board Certification in Colon and Rectal Surgery – American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Active
- Board Certification in General Surgery – American Board of Surgery, Active
Charities & Volunteering
- Camp Shriver – Marathon Fundraiser and Supporter, 2024 NYC Marathon
- Plan International – Marathon Fundraiser, 2017 Boston Marathon
Boards & Memberships
- American College of Surgeons (ACS) – Member
- American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) – Member
- Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) – Member
- American Medical Association (AMA) – Member
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Dr. Richard Birkett do?
Dr. Richard Birkett is a board-certified colorectal and general surgeon and a member of Essex Surgical Associates. He specializes in minimally invasive techniques, including robotic and laparoscopic surgery, focusing on colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.
What is Dr. Richard Birkett known for?
Dr. Birkett is known for his work in minimally invasive colorectal surgery and gastrointestinal disease treatment, as well as his research and peer-reviewed publications on colorectal surgery and surgical education. He has also been featured in press coverage on sustainability in surgery and as an Ironman athlete.
Where is Dr. Richard Birkett based?
Dr. Richard Birkett is based in Beverly, Massachusetts, United States.
Where did Dr. Richard Birkett study?
Dr. Birkett earned his MD from Drexel University College of Medicine, an MBA from the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and a BS in Biology from Augsburg University.
Who does Dr. Richard Birkett work for?
Dr. Richard Birkett works for Essex Surgical Associates and is affiliated with Beth Israel Lahey Health and Mass General Brigham.
Last updated February 20, 2026