One of the largest ethnic professional organisations representing some 100,000 Indian American physicians settled in the US is focused on becoming an all-inclusive organization that would also help young physicians coming from India.
The new executive committee of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) led by its new president Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar assumed charge during its 32nd annual convention in San Antonio, Texas last month.
Jahagirdar, a urologist from Florida wants AAPI to be an all-inclusive organization that is nurtured by the collective efforts of its members, according to an AAPI media release.
His vision for AAPI focuses on five vital areas: education, community/charitable service, member support programmes, mentorship and the mantle, and legislative action.
"Mentoring the younger AAPI member and officer is critical for our sustenance," he told the delegates while "legislative actions are vital to effect change.
"AAPI should continue its traditional efforts, as well as work with other organizations for causes of mutual interest," Jahagirdar said.
Dr. Seema Jain, AAPI president-elect and a board certified psychiatrist, is the president of Highland Psychiatric Associates & Medical Director of the New Jersey ADHD Centre. She will take over as president next June.
Jain believes "bridging the gap between clinical research and medical practice is central to AAPI's mission, while working towards sustaining & securing financial growth."
"In addition, growth and empowerment of women leaders will guide AAPI to new heights. As Indian physicians in the United States it is our duty to nurture the present for a prosperous future."
AAPI vice president Ajay Lodha wants "AAPI to be a platform in helping our young physicians coming from India to seek residencies and to help them in settlement and to get jobs."
As the new secretary Gautam Samadder, president & CEO of Columbus Sleep Consultants, is dedicated to bringing the organization renewed energy and participation.
The new treasurer Naresh Parikh, a graduate from Nagpur medical college and a cardiologist practicing in Atlanta, Georgia, wants to "bring more awareness of AAPI to all practicing physicians of Indian origin, by promoting membership and fund raising activities."
Dr. Ajeet Singhvi, chairman, board of trustees, wants to help AAPI fulfil its mission while managing endowment funds of AAPI and empowering membership in the decision making process and restoring AAPI's image
Dr. Kusum Punjabi, president of Young Physicians of AAPI, plans to undertake a five city networking event sponsored by the industry in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Atlanta.
Punjabi also wants to use her "skills to improve the image of AAPI and to make AAPI aware of the issues confronting my generation of physicians and those still in training."
(Arun Kumar can be contacted at arun.kumar@ians.in)
