Tag: aapiphysicians

AAPI’s Global Health Summit 2016 To Feature Specialized Medical Workshops

Ajay GhoshHealth 0

(Chicago, IL; December 14th, 2016): Physicians of Indian origin are well known around the world for their compassion, passion for patient care, medical skills, research, and leadership. They have excelled in their fields of medicine, and thus have earned a name for themselves through hard work, commitment and dedication to their profession and the people they are committed to serve. Not satisfied with their own professional growth and the service they provide to their patients around the world, they are in the forefront, sharing their knowledge and expertise with others, especially those physicians and leaders in the medical field from India.

The 10th annual Global Healthcare Summit (GHS) 2016, organized by the Association of American Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) at the prestigious Maurya ITC, New Delhi, India from January 1st to 3rd, 2016 offers a unique forum for them to come together, sharing their knowledge and expertise in their respective medical fields with their fellow physicians from around the world, and to learn from one another.

Dr. Seema Jain, president of AAPI, says, AAPI has been engaged in harnessing the power of Indian Diaspora to bring the most innovative, efficient, cost effective healthcare solutions to India. For the first time, clinical practice workshops will be held at this summit. Expected to draw over 1000 leading experts from several countries, GHS-16 will focus on sharing best practices, developing efficient and cost effective solutions for India. The scientific program of GHS is developed by leading experts with the contributions of a stellar scientific advisory board and international scientific committee.

The scientific program and workshops of GHS is developed by leading experts with contributions by the Scientific Advisory Board and the International Scientific Committee. The workshops will be led by world famous physicians on topics relevant to the needs of the time. Some of the topics covered will include: World renowned physician leaders will lead workshops on Advances in Oncology, Diabetes, Cardiology, Wound Care, Head Injury, Patient Safety, Lung, Gastro Intestinal, Hepatitis, Infectious Disease, Antibiotic Resistance, Emergency Medicine, and Women’s Health & Leadership

More than 100 opinion leaders and expert speakers across the globe will present cutting edge scientific findings related to clinical practice by speakers drawn from major centers of excellence, institutions and professional associations. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for continuing Medical Education for 14 hours of credit, the Summit will also feature a CEO Forum, where CEOs from around the world from hospitals, teaching institutions and major healthcare sectors, including pharmaceutical, medical devices and technology, will join to explore potential opportunities for collaboration.

Dr. Ajay Lodha, President-Elect, says. “AAPI has organized seven Indo – US/Global Healthcare Submits and developed strategic alliances with various organizations. It is these learning and relationships that have now enabled us to plan ahead and prepare for an outstanding events that has already received confirmation and endorsement from over 300 very prominent and talented physicians and surgeons that are very passionate, about serving their homeland, Mother India.”

“This international health care summit is a progressive transformation from the first Indo-US Healthcare Summit launched by AAPI USA in 2007,” Dr. Gautam Samadder, Vice President of AAPI, says. “With the objective of enabling people in India to access high quality, affordable, and cost-effective world class health services, the Summit to be held in collaboration with the Indian Medical Association (IMA), the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs & Ministry of Health, will have participation from some of the world’s most well known physicians and industry leaders.”

“With the changing trends and statistics in healthcare, both in India and US, we are refocusing our mission and vision of GHS2016, AAPI would like to make a positive meaningful impact on the healthcare in India,” Dr. Jain says. “In our quest to fulfill the mission of AAPI, we are proud to share best practice and experiences from leading experts in the world and develop actionable plans for launching demonstration projects that enable access to affordable and quality healthcare for all people. To accomplish this mission, For more information on Global Health Summit 2016, please visit www.aapighsindia.org

Dr. Seema Jain Leads AAPI Delegation At 2015 Regional Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in LA

Ajay GhoshHealth 0

Dr. Seema Jain, President of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) led a delegation of AAPI leaders at the 2015 Regional Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention in Los Angeles, California, a celebration marking Indian diaspora contributions that help to spur India’s development,

Organized in collaboration with the the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, the US government and other members of the diaspora, Dr. Jain addressed on healthcare initiatives by AAPI in India, “I was excited to lead an AAPI delegation and part of a panel that discussed healthcare in India and how we as physicians are able to make a positive impact,” Dr. Jain said.

During a panel discussion on Healthcare, Dr. Jain referred to the numerous initiatives AAPI has taken in India to make healthcare affordable, accessible and best quality. “AAPI has successfully collaborated with past Governments and with the new Government at the Center, we are looking forward to have renewed participation and engagement in areas related to health seeking to make a positive impact on Healthcare in India,” Dr. Jian told the delegates. “AAPI would like to make a positive meaningful impact on the healthcare in India.”

Dr. Jain drew the attention of the delegates to the  Global health Summit by AAPI that continues to offer educational and training programs on areas that need special attention, including high priority areas such as Cardiology, Maternal & Child Health, Diabetes, Oncology, Surgery, Mental Health, HIT, Allergy, Immunology & Lung Health and Gastroenterology, Transplant and impact of comorbidities by world leaders in the field of medicine.

“The scientific program developed by leading experts with the contributions of a  Scientific Advisory Board and International Scientific Committee, with live streaming of sessions, which are viewed live by physicians from around the world,” she said. Dr. Jain emphasized the need for digitalizing Indian medical system, including the prescriptions of medications, which will eliminate people abusing of and getting addicted to prescription drugs.  In collaboration with others, AAPI has established fully operational Trauma/EMS system   in Pune,  Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahemedabad, Hyderabad and  Delhi, since the year 2000.

Superstar Amitabh Bachchan, who has part of AAPI’s campaign to create awareness on Trauma and Brain Injury, has been requested to be part of the next Global Healthcare Summit to be held in New Delhi from January 1st to 3rd, 2016. AAPI’s focus of GHS 2016 will be on women-related issues, creating awareness among women on their role as nation builders, campaigning to prevent infant and maternal mortality, and mental health issues, Dr. Jain said.

AAPI Charitable Foundation (AAPI-CF) is the non-profit arm of AAPI, responsible for fulfilling the charitable mission of the organization. It runs 17 free clinics in India, which serve millions of patients annually. Overseeing participating in the healthcare initiatives at a number of free clinics run by its local and State chapters across USA, Dr. Jain said. AAPI is supporting three cancer centers and have developed three major trauma centers and a hospital in India. AAPI-CF has also raised funds and mobilized medical equipment and personnel for international disasters including the Tsunami, and Earthquakes in Gujarat and Maharashtra. In addition, AAPI’s local Chapters operate several free health clinics serving the uninsured and the underprivileged people across the United States

Dr. Seema Jain Leads AAPI Delegation At 2015 Regional Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in LA
Dr. Seema Jain At 2015 Regional Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in LA

“AAPI has successfully collaborated with past Governments and with the new Government at the Center, we are looking forward to have renewed participation and engagement in areas related to health seeking to make a positive impact on Healthcare in India, Dr. Jain said. “AAPI would like to make a positive meaningful impact on the healthcare in India.”

Dr. urged every aspiring young physicians to take advantage of a unique initiative announced at the PBD in LA, the India Corporate Internship Program. “I wanted our young and aspiring physicians to take advantage of be part of the India Corporate Internship Program, a prestigious, first-of-its-kind program of the Government of India, Ministry of the Overseas Indian Affairs, through the Overseas Indian Facilitation Center (OIFC) in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for the students of Indian origin pursuing Post Graduate Programs in Management, Engineering, and Science & Technology at premier universities of the world,” Dr. Jain said.

The program invites them for paid internships in world class Indian companies for 2-6 months.

Some of the world’s best healthcare providers, including Apollo Hospitals, Narayana Health, and Max Group are only a few who are looking forward to our budding physicians to be part of thie great initiative.

This program offers students of Indian Origin an opportunity to re-connect with their roots and work in their areas of interest in a dynamic multicultural environment, through paid internships.

It is a unique and exciting opportunities for Indian Diaspora students to contribute and benefit from one of the world’s foremost, vibrant and increasingly global Indian business eco-system.

-US $2200 per month. Students could explore options such as a matching grant or support in some other way from their University.

The host company will either provide accommodation in a hotel/guest house or recommend suitable stay options. Interested candidates can apply to the program on the OIFC website (www.oifc.in/india-corporate-internship/about) or the University recruitment portal.

Wanted to draw your attention to the 10th anniversary of our annual Global Health Summit from January 1 – 3, 2016 at the prestigious ITC Maurya Hotel, New Delhi. With the changing trends and statistics in healthcare, both in India and US, AAPI is refocusing our mission and vision of GHS 2016, AAPI would like to collaborate with local partners in India towards making a positive meaningful impact on the healthcare in India. The mission of AAPI is to share best practice and experiences from leading experts in the world and develop actionable plans for launching demonstration projects that enable access to affordable and quality healthcare for all people. “Come and join us at this historic Summit and be part of our Pre-Summit events to Vrindavan in Mathura, and the Taj Mahal in Agra,” Dr. Seema said. For more details, please visit:www.aapighsindia.org

Dr. Ajay Lodha Appointed Member of Nassau Advisory Council on MWBE

Ajay GhoshProfiles 0

Dr. Ajay Lodha, President-Elect of American Association of Indian Physicians and an active member of the Rajasthan Association of North America was appointed a member of the Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos’s MWBE Advisory Council recently. Nassau County on Long Island has a growing number of Indian American population.

The appointment of Dr. Lodha is yet another way of the County recognizing the importance and influence of the Indian Americans, who are known to be highly successful, and are known for their achievements in education, high per capita income and business.

The mission of the council is to assist the County in doubling the participation of the Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise businesses in the contracting process. The advisory council will assist the Comptroller’s office in monitoring the County’s compliance with MWBE Goals and encourage MWBE firms to participate in County contract opportunities.

Dr. Ajay Lodha Appointed Member of Nassau Advisory Council on MWBE
Dr. Ajay Lodha

Dr. Ajay Lodha hides a power house of entrepreneurial skills. Dr. Lodha has extensive background of overseeing quality assurance and quality improvement. A graduate of RNT Medical College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, completed his residency at Flushing Hospital, NY, and Founder and President of Queens Medical Services, a primary care practice with two locations serving Queens, NY, Dr. Lodha is the past President AAPIQLI, RAJMAAI, RANA. He is also credited with founding the COO of NYS Elite ACO, as well as being a partner in two skilled nursing facilities on Long Island.

His vision for AAPI ‘is to increase the global awareness of APPI.  I would like to see us lobby Congress for an increase in the number of available Residency Positions so as to help alleviate the shortage of Doctors.  That younger physicians and MSRF members feel fully integrated into AAPI and take a more active role.” His experiences in organizing conferences and meetings which help to bring members together and attract new members which is vital to the success of the organization.

In his capacity as the Member of Nassau Advisory Council on MWBE I will make sure through my connection to Indian-American community to increase awareness of the Nassau County Government MWBE out-reach program. I hope to assist the office in organizing educational seminars for South Asian business owners, where they can learn how to apply for contracts.”

Dr. Joseph Chalil – Profile

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Dr. Joseph Chalil - Physician and Executive at Boehringer Ingelheim
Dr. Joseph Chalil

Dr. Joseph M. Chalil is a prominent physician executive, currently serving as the Managing Partner at Parker Lloyd USA. His extensive contributions to healthcare innovation and research are recognized internationally, with numerous publications in leading journals.

Dr. Chalil is currently an LLM Medical Law and Ethics candidate at the University of Edinburgh Law School, further enhancing his expertise in the intersection of healthcare, law, and ethics.

He holds key positions as the Chairman of the Complex Health Systems Advisory Board and as an Adjunct Professor at the College of Business at Nova Southeastern University, Florida. He is an author of multiple best selling books including: India Beyond The Pandemic and Beyond The Covid-19 Pandemic reflects his vision and commitment to advancing global healthcare systems.

A U.S. Navy Medical Corps veteran, Dr. Chalil is also a strategic member of the Executive Leadership Council at the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine. He served as the Chief Strategic Advisor for the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), advocating for the interests of Indian-origin medical professionals.

Dr. Chalil is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and is recognized for his leadership in healthcare administration. His commitment to balanced media representation is evident as Former Chairman of the Indo-American Press Club and as a columnist for the Sunday Guardian. He is also a regular guest on Indian TV news channels like Republic TV and NewsX, where he discusses various topics, including US-India relations, geopolitical issues, and public policy, showcasing his depth of knowledge in these areas.

His unique blend of medical, legal, and policy expertise positions Dr. Chalil as a respected figure in healthcare and media. He is admired for his contributions to patient-centered care, healthcare policy, and international relations.

 

Dr. Seema Jain Meets With Bill Clinton

Ajay GhoshHealth 0

(New York, NY: October 27th, 2015) Dr. Seema Jain, President of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) met with Bill Clinton, President and Chairman of The Clinton Foundation here last week, and has enlisted the support of The Clinton Foundation for AAPI initiatives, especially in the areas of Tuberclosis, Hepatitis C and Trauma & Brain Injury.

“The Clinton Foundation that builds partnerships of great purpose between businesses, governments, NGOs, and individuals to work faster, better, and leaner, will work with AAPI in realizing some of the noble goals we have set before us,” Dr. Jain told here. “Together we will work towards finding solutions that last, and will transform lives and communities from what they are today to what they can be, tomorrow,” she added, while affirming the common goals of AAPI and the Foundation. “President Clinton complimented AAPI and its members for their ongoing support and collaboration towards India’s healthcare,” Dr. Jain added.

According to Dr. Jain, Amitabh Bachchan will continue to lead the AAPI initiative in creating awareness on the need to prevent trauma and brain injury. “Amitabh Bachchan is a real life superhero to millions, including myself, so it’s no surprise that he is the perfect person to be the face of AAPI initiative in this very important area,” Dr. Jain said.

With a view to prevent and educate the public and the government on the need to take measures individually and collectively, to prevent road accidents, during the historical Global Health Summit earlier this year,  Superstar Amitabh Bachchan had pledged to lead a campaign for safety initiated by American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI).

“I pledge my support for these campaigns and commit myself towards the achievement of AAPI’s worthy goals.  I am here  with you for these campaigns and in any other campaign you might undertake and if my face and voice can be instrumental in propagating these efforts, I would gladly lend the same” the Bollywood Superstar, Amitabh Bachchan,  declared reiterating his whole hearted support to AAPI’s campaign to eradicate Hepatitis and create awareness about Head Injury and Trauma.

Dr. Seema Jain expressed her sincere gratitude to Shri Amitabh Bachchan. “Your presence at the Global Healthcare Summit has only added to the prestige of this monumental event and built the foundation for us to address the serious concerns of head injury, trauma as well as the scourge of hepatitis. Your contribution towards creating awareness, preventing accidents and saving lives is appreciated.”

India is the country with the highest burden of TB, with World Health Organisation (WHO) statistics giving an estimated incidence figure of 2.1 million cases of TB for India out of a global incidence of 9 million. It is estimated that about 40% of the Indian population is infected with TB bacteria, the vast majority of whom have latent rather than active TB.

Many people with chronic hepatitis C do not show symptoms and do not know they are infected. People with chronic Hepatitis C can live for decades without symptoms or feeling sick. When symptoms do appear, they often are a sign of advanced liver disease, say experts.

Hepatitis C is a serious liver disease that results from infection with the Hepatitis C virus. Hepatitis C has been called a silent epidemic because most people with Hepatitis C do not know they are infected. Symptoms of Hepatitis C can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, grey-coloured stools, joint pain and/or jaundice.

Road traffic accidents kill more than 12 million people and injure more than 500 million people worldwide every year. Everyday about 6,600 deaths and 3,300 serious injuries occur due to RTAs, according to reports. The global annual cost due to RTA s is a whopping 230,000 million US dollars. Unfortunately India has the dubious distinction of having the worst record of road safety in the world. India accounts for about 10% of road accident fatalities worldwide.

According to a report by the Indian Orthopaedic Association, in India, 1,20,000 people die and 12,70,000 sustain serious injuries every year in Road Traffic Accidents. As per the statistics, there is one death on the Indian road every six minutes and this is expected to escalate to one death every three minutes by 2020. Even this may be an underestimation, as according to the Institute of Road Traffic Education Institute of road education, New Delhi, out of the estimated 1.4 million serious road accidents/ collisions occurring annually in India, hardly 0.4 million are recorded.

Bachchan expressed hope that the new initiatives by AAPI will succeed. “I am quite certain, with the kind of help and expertise that we have on hand, and with the kind of backing, and hopefully with my involvement as far as my face and my voice is concerned, we shall be able to handle the other program that you have brought here namely Hepatitis.”

Dr. Jain pointed out the important progress that has been made connecting patients to essential treatment, millions of people continue to die unnecessarily from AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and other treatable diseases, access to critical medicines and diagnostics is often limited in resource-poor settings, resulting in dire consequences for some of the world’s most vulnerable populations.

Dr. Seema Jain with Bill Clinton. Seema Jain with Bill Clinton
Dr. Seema Jain with Bill Clinton. Seema Jain with Bill Clinton

The Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), a separate, affiliated entity, works to strengthen in-country health systems and improve global markets for medicines and diagnostics – ensuring lifesaving treatments and care can reach the people who need them the most. CHAI’s goal is to transform these systems and ensure they develop into self-sustaining methods of providing low-cost, high-quality care.

Plans are underway and the AAPI delegation was in India to plan the events and to work towards collaborating with the Government of India and its various Ministries, Educational Institutions and Corporate Leaders to work collaboratively for a productive and successful GHS 2016 in Mumbai, India.

AAPI is the largest ethnic medical organization in the United States and represents the interests of more than 65,000 physicians and nearly 35,000 medical students/residents of Indian heritage. AAPI, a forum to facilitate and enable Indian American Physicians to excel in patient care, teaching and research and to pursue their aspirations in professional and community affairs, is an umbrella organization with nearly 130 specialty societies and alumni organizations.

Dr. Jain has called upon AAPI members to join in this historic journey. Dr. Seema Jain appeals to “all of you, AAPI members, well-wishers, friends and colleagues to join this effort and help ensure that we are putting in solid effort towards making quality healthcare affordable and accessible to all people of India.” For additional information on AAPI and its Global Healthcare Summit, please visit: www.aapiusa.org; www.aapighsindia.org

Ajay Ghosh – Chief Editor, Universal News Network

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Born and educated in India, Ajay Ghosh, The Chief Editor of Universal News Network, came to the United States to pursue his higher studies in Journalism in 1997. Having a Master’s Degree in Social Work, he worked as a freelance writer on social issues for numerous publications on in Delhi and served as the Editor of The Voice Delhi.

After graduating with a Master’s Degree in Journalism from the School of Journalism at Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, his life as a professional journalist began in the summer of 1999 in New York City. Starting as a reporter for India Post, he worked as the New York Bureau Chief of Indian Reporter and World News from 2000 to 2005.

From 2002 to 2008, Ajay worked as the Executive Editor of NRI Today, a monthly magazine, published from New York. He was instrumental in launching The Asian Era, a colorful magazine published from New York and worked as the Chief Editor from 1999 to 2015. He had worked for about two years as the New York Bureau Chief of India Tribune, a weekly newspaper, published from Chicago.

Since early 2014, he has been working as the Bureau Chief of The Indian Express, North American Editions. In 2014, he along with Dr. Joseph Chalil launched The Universal News Network, an online publication (www.theunn.com) and continues to serve as the Chief Editor of the web-portal.

In 2010, Ajay was appointed as the Media Consultant of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI, the largest ethnic association representing over 100,000 physicians of Indian origin in the United States. He has been recently appointed as the Media Coordinator of GOPIO-CT, considered the most vibrant GOPIO Chapter in the world.

With the objective of bringing together the journalists of Indian origin scattered across the United States, Ajay along with his friends/colleagues in the media, was instrumental in forming Indo-American Press Club last year, and had served as the founder President of Indo-American Press Club.

In addition, Ajay taught Social Work Seminar and guided students at the Graduate School of Social Work, Fordham University in New York City since 2006. He has been working as the Administrator of the Mental Health Clinic at Saint Dominic’s Home, Bronx, New York from 1999 to 2014. Worked as the Treatment Coordinator at Saint Vincent’s Hospital’s Westport Campus, which serves patients with mental health issues, and had a bief stint as a Senior Social Worker at Children’s Village that serves children and families for over 150 years. At present, he works as a Social Worker at Yale New Haven Hospital.

Ajay Ghosh is married to Mini, his closest friend and wife for nearly two decades and the couple are blessed with three beautiful daughters, Archana, Navya, and Ahana. The Ajay Family lives in Trumbull, CT.

Ajay Ghosh - Chief Editor, Universal News Network
Ajay Ghosh

White House, Indian American groups launch campaign to address bullying

Ajay GhoshCommunity, Politics 0

Indian American and Asian American organizations, joined the White House in launching a public awareness campaign to address bullying in the middle of National Bullying Prevention Month. The “Act To Change” public awareness campaign was launched by the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, Sikh Coalition and Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment to empower Asian American and Pacific Islander youth, educators and communities with information and tools to address and prevent the problem.

The Initiative, co-chaired by Education Secretary Arne Duncan and Surgeon General of the United States Dr. Vivek Murthy and led by Ahuja, is housed within the U.S. Department of Education. “The ‘Act To Change’ campaign, and the strong coalition behind it, is a critical and necessary step forward for empowering our communities to stand up against bullying,” Sapreet Kaur, Sikh Coalition executive director, said in a statement.

“Bullying is a major civil rights issue for the Asian American and Pacific Islander community in particular,” Initiative executive director Kiran Ahuja said in a statement. “We’ve seen too often AAPI groups, including Sikh, Muslim, Micronesian, LGBT, and limited English-proficient youth, targeted for bullying and harassment.”

Sikhs have become the poster child for this pervasive problem in post 9/11 classrooms, largely because of their articles of faith. The Sikh Coalition’s 2014 national bullying report found that 67% of turbaned Sikh children in varying U.S. communities have been bullied.

“The bullying of Sikh children is an epidemic,” said the Sikh Coalition’s Law and Policy director Arjun Singh. “Misinformation and misunderstanding regarding the Sikh faith, coupled with a dramatic increase in bigoted dialogue towards religious minorities, has resulted in intolerance and bullying in our schools.”

The campaign website, ActToChange.org, and its social media tag #ActToChange, provide AAPI youth and community members with platforms to share their stories, engage in dialogue around bullying awareness and prevention, and “Take the Pledge” to join the #ActToChange movement.

White House, Indian American groups launch campaign to address bullyingVideo testimonials, music playlists, and blog stories provide messages of empowerment and support from AAPI athletes, artists, entertainers, and community members. As one in three AAPIs does not speak English fluently, the campaign offers resources in multiple languages: Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese.

Campaign partners will host a live event in Los Angeles, Calif., at the Japanese American National Museum Nov. 21. The public event will feature armchair dialogues and performances with distinguished personalities and community members. Prior to the event, OCA – Asian Pacific American Advocates, a national civil rights organization — will host high school advocacy training, expanding upon its existing “APA Y-Advocate” program to include a bullying prevention curriculum.

Maulik Pancholy, a member of the President’s Advisory Commission on AAPI, said, “Growing up, sometimes people made me feel like an outsider; I was the perfect storm of nerdy, gay and Indian American,” in discussing the campaign. “But now, I’ve come to find that those very things that were sometimes used as fodder against me are the things I love the most about myself,” he wrote in a White House blog post.

“I have the privilege to be connected to amazing communities of incredible people: people who know that it’s actually cool to nerd out about stuff, who celebrate the strength and joy of what it means to identify as LGBT, and who appreciate the rich cultural heritage of being Indian American.”

“It’s okay to be weird, but it’s NOT okay to be bullied,” said Pancholy, noting: “Every day, kids of all ages suffer from being bullied in schools across the country.” In the AAPI community, this problem is often complicated by cultural, religious and linguistic barriers that can keep AAPI youth from getting the help they need, he said.

“And we’ve seen that certain AAPI groups — including South Asian, Muslim, Sikh, Micronesian and limited English proficient youth — are more likely to be the targets of bullying,” Pancholy wrote.

AAPICO Celebrates 10th Annual Charity Event In Columbus Ohio

Ajay GhoshCommunity, Health 0

American Association of Physician of Indian Origin-Central Ohio ( AAPICO) celebrated its 10th annual charity event at Hyatt Regency  in Columbus Ohio on September 19th, 2015. The event was attended by more than 300 participants from across the state. This year charity event was dedicated to raise funds to promote Breast and Ovarian Cancer Research and awareness.

Dr Seema Jain, President of AAPI, a chief guest, noted that there are more than 110,000 doctors and medical students of Indian origin in the US. The number of medical students is estimated at 38,000. In some universities, more than 30 percent of the students are of Indian origin.

“In several states, one in four patients, consult a doctor of Indian origin. Nationally it is one in seven. It means that the Indian physicians play a major role in the healthcare in the US and their absence would disrupt the health sector,” Dr. Jain said. “AAPI continues to play a major role in in the health care in this country. We played a crucial role in securing the approval of Dr. Vivek Murthy as Surgeon General.”

Dr. Gautam Samadder, AAPI’s Vice President, said, through his active participation and leadership at the national level, he wants to “amplify participation among young physicians and medical students, strengthen AAPI’s financial security through profitable corporate sponsorships and facilitate collegial cooperation between local and state chapters, as this will increase AAPI’s global stature and eminence, which will ultimately make healthcare more efficient and effective in USA and India.”

On a national level AAPI has risen to become the premier ethnic medical association in the United States, representing well over 70,000 practicing physicians, residents, fellows and medical students.  The mission of our organization is to serve as a forum to facilitate and enable Indian American physicians to excel in patient care, teaching and research, and to pursue their aspiration in professional and community affairs.  In addition to the support of our 17 healthcare clinics in India and 25 clinics here in the United States, AAPI is also recognized as a strong voice in the healthcare legislation and policy arena.

After the gala, participants proceeded to the major fund raising concert of Sunidhi Chauhan, one of the most decorated artist in Bollywood performed for the first time in Ohio on September 19th at Ohio theater in Columbus. Capacity crowd  from all over Ohio came to listen to their favorite artist. Sunidhi performance was mind blowing. The crowd within half hour left their seats and took the floor to dance with the tunes of her songs.

She even gave one of her young admirer a chance to sing few lines dedicated to her. Both young and old spectators were mesmerized with her songs and stage performance. The show had to be extended an extra hour to meet up with crowd expectations.

At the end of the show a private meet and greet session was arranged for the sponsors and Sunidhi was gracious enough to have a photographs with all of them. The concert left a long lasting impression on everyone at the Auditorium, while contributing to the noble cause of AAPI and its initiative to create awareness on breast cancer.

36th annual convention of the Association of Kerala Medical Graduates held in Philadelphia

Ajay GhoshCommunity 0

The 36th annual convention of the Association of Kerala Medical Graduates (AKMG) at the Downtown Marriott in Philadelphia, September 5-7, was attended by hundreds of doctors and their family from the US, Canada, England and India. The AKMG is a pioneering organization of Indian physicians in the US, which was formed three years earlier than the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin.

Dr. Seema Jain, president of AAPI, noted that AKMG inspired the formation of AAPI. At the concluding public meeting, Dr. Jain said there are more than 110,000 doctors and medical students of Indian origin in the US. The number of medical students is estimated at 38,000. In some universities, more than 30 percent of the students are of Indian origin.

“In several states, one in four patients, consult a doctor of Indian origin. Nationally it is one in seven. It means that the Indian physicians play a major role in the healthcare in the US and their absence would disrupt the health sector,” Dr. Jain said. “AAPI continues to play a major role in in the health care in this country. We played a crucial role in securing the approval of Dr. Vivek Murthy as Surgeon General.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom she met recently, is keenly watching the activities of AAPI and in his future plans AAPI has a special place. She asked all the Indian physicians to join AAPI.

Anto Antony MP, the only political leader from India to attend the event, praised the achievements of the Indian doctors using the knowledge gained from India. Once their departure from India was considered as brain drain, but now they are the brain bank of the country.

He pointed out the fast changing technology and the difficulties to cope up with it. More than 85 percent of technology and innovation happens in the US. America conquers the world with it. People may say that America gains importance through its armed strength. “The truth is that their gains are mostly through technology. Many nations tried to compete or challenge America and are unsuccessful till now.” Companies from India have employed 10,000 Indian is the US while they have given jobs to more than 22,000 Americans. He also congratulated the organization for keeping its unity even after 36 years, which should be a model for other organizations that split frequently.

Dr. Azad Mooppan, who runs upscale hospitals in several countries and five states in India, employing more than 13,500 people, quoted Silicon Valley experts who said that machines will replace 80 percent of the work currently done by the doctors. In future, the patient could sit at home and consult the doctor. “Yet the importance of the physicians or the profession will not be diminished. The roles may change,” he said.

Dr. Alex Thomas, president of AKMG, noted the revival of AKMG in recent years. Yet many of the doctors and medical students would not take membership in AKMG or AAPI, which needs to be changed. He noted that there about 4000 doctors of Kerala heritage, but only a few are associated with AKMG. “I am humbled and honored by the opportunity to serve as your president for its 36th year. As I undertake to represent the AKMG as its President for 2014-2015,” he said. He thanked the convention team with Dr. Joseph Mathew as the Convention Chairman, who had put together the event that included CMEs and a great cultural and entertainment program.

At the event, he handed over the charge to incoming president Dr. Sunil Kumar from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Dr. Kumar announced that the next convention will be held in Miami Beach in July 14-16 in 2016. He said he will work to strengthen the organization and improve relations with other organizations like Fokana and Fomaa and also with organizations of other medical professionals. The attitude of the physicians keeping aloof from other medical professionals has no place in the US

An aggressive move to enroll more members, especially youngsters will be launched soon. To attract youngsters, AKMG members will work as mentors for the medical students and those who wish to study medicine. As always, AKMG will continue the focus on charity activities and helping the medical colleges back in Kerala. He said AKMG will strengthen the relations with AAPI, which can work nationally. Dr Kumar also promised to help Indian American candidates running for elections pointing that they deserve our support as part of our community irrespective of party affiliations.

Dr. Kurian Abraham, patron of the convention noted the reasons for the lack of participation of the young doctors. He said the medical education is very expensive in America and many young doctors are more concerned about repaying the huge student loan they have taken, which has high interest rate too. They are more focused on career and money than social activities, he pointed out.

Dr. Joseph Mathew, convention chair, Dr. Narendra Kumar, former president of AKMG and AAPI, Dr. Aravind Pillai, former president of AKMG and current chair of the AAPI Board of Trustees, addressed the delegates at the convention. The cultural events include Amrutha sandhya, a dance program by New Jersey based Kalashri school led by Bina Menon.  The entertainment for the concluding night on Sept 6th was the Bobby Chemmanur Jayaram show 2015 directed by Nadirshah with star performers Padmasree Jayaram the film actor, Priyamani, the award winning film actress,   Pisharodi & Dharmajan of Badai Bangalaw fame and an ace singer Unnimenon.

The three day convention began with a cruise around Philadelphia. On the second day, Onam was celebrated with traditional festivities including a reception to King Mahabaili with thalapoli and chenda melam followed by an Onam feast. Various seminars, CME classes and campus comedy night which showcased the artistic talents of the doctors were the highlights of the convention. At the literary seminar several doctors read their literary works including poems. Dr. MV Pillai, who moderated the event noted the contributions of doctors like Dr. Siddharth Mukherji and Dr. Abraham Vergese for literature.

US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy Marries Alice Chen

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Dr. Vivek Murthy, Indian American U.S. Surgeon General, flew from Boston to California to marry fellow doctor Alice Chen in her home state, on August 22nd, 2015. “As I prepare for my wedding & write my vows, I remember Maya Angelou’s timeless advice: #Love recognizes no barriers,” Murthy tweeted Aug. 20 with a photo of his new wife. Chen responded to the tweet with, “Love is all you need. #grateful #happy.”

In addition to holding the position of surgeon general, Murthy, 37, is also a physician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and a teacher at Harvard Medical School. Chen is a practicing internal medicine hospitalist and assistant clinical professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, along with serving as executive director for Doctors for America, an organization working towards equal access to high-quality health care, according to the Doctors for America Web site.

President Barak Obama has nominated 37-year-old Indian-American physician Dr. Vivek Murthy to be the US Surgeon General, making Dr. Murthy the country’s 19th surgeon general for an office that was established in 1871. As the US Surgeon General, the young and talented Indian American is entrusted with leading spokesperson on matters of public health in the US and the operational head of the 6500-strong US Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, one of the seven uniformed services of the United States that includes army, navy, air force and marines.

A graduate of Yale University, where he earned a medical degree and an MBA, he will easily be, by far, the youngest surgeon general in US history. He will also be the first surgeon general of Indian origin, recognizing the immense contribution of the Indian-American community to health care in the United States.

Stating that it is a fitting public recognition of his tireless work and leadership in championing a system where everyone has equal access to quality healthcare, AAPI, the entire Indian American community has been looking forward to bringing the experience and perspective of everyday doctors to the table to help shape the national prevention strategy.

The surgeon general, known as “America’s doctor,” represents the Health and Human Services Secretary and assistant secretary in addressing public health practice. According to an account on Epernicus.com, Murthy says “I study people’s journeys to find inspiration in their work.”

Among other accomplishments, Dr. Murthy founded other health groups addressing issues such as the availability of medicine in rural areas and HIV/AIDS.  In 1997, he graduated with a degree in biochemical sciences from Harvard, and later attended Yale University to receive degrees in medicine and business. He had previously served as President Obama’s appointee to the Presidential Advisory Council on Prevention, Health Promotion, Integrative and Public Health.  He is an attending physician in general internal medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Mass.

Dr. Seema Jain Assumes Charge As President Of AAPI During 33rd Annual Convention

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Orlando, FL: June 21st, 2015 During a terrific convention attended by over 2,500 participants, Dr. Seema Jain, took the oath of office as the President of AAPI on Saturday night, June 20th, 2015. The delegates from across the nation came together to celebrate their achievements and to plan for ways to move forward, enriching and supporting one another for the greater good of humanity through education and dedication to their motherland India and to their adopted land, the United States at the 33rd annual historic convention organized by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) at the Reniassance Hotel Convention Center, Orlando, FL from Wednesday, June 17th to Sunday, June 21st, 2015. In her first ever Presidential address, Dr. Jain said, “Today, I am pleased to announce our strategic plan for the next 12 months.  With your support, dedication and hard work we will make sure that this is a turning point in the history of AAPI. Our key strategic initiatives will be as follows: Excellence of Education, Empowerment,
Enlightenment, and Evolution.”

Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, the out-going President of  AAPI, in his address, said, “When I became the President of AAPI, the vision for AAPI was spelled out on a traditional Vedic concept of “Panchasheel” , the five action pillars: Education, Community/Charitable service, Member Support Programs, Mentorship / Mantle, and Legislative Action, to further the voluminous achievements of the past 33 years. As he handed over the reign of AAPI to Dr. Seema Jain on Saturday night at a terrific gala, Dr. Jahagirdar had this to say with much satisfaction and pride, “And as this tumultuous year of achievements for AAPI draws to the close, it is with a premonition that the future will be even more productive and that AAPI is now on an unmistakable march into a bright future.”

Dr. Seema Jain being administered the oath of office as the President of AAPI
Dr. Seema Jain being administered the oath of office as the President of AAPI

Dr. Jayesh Shah, past President, AAPI administered the oath of office as the more than 2,500 delegates cheered loudly, greeting the new President of AAPI, the largest ethnic medical association in the United States. Along with Dr. Jain, Dr. Ajay Lodha as President-Elect, Dr. Gautam Samadder as Vice President, Dr. Naresh Parikh as Secretary, and Dr. Suresh Reddy as the Treasurer of AAPI assumed charge I n the presence of leading luminaries and over 2,000 AAPI delegates from across the nation. Dr. Aravind Pillai was administered the oath of office as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, AAPI by the out-going chairman, Dr. Ajeet Singhivi.

Cutting edge CMEs that offered insights into several healthcare and medical issues, focus on ways to actively participate in the nation’s legislative process, on ways to prevent diseases, while working with the government of India and voluntary agencies to effectively train physicians in India, fashion show, women’s forum, fashion shows, mega entertainment by Bollywood Stars, Sonu Nigam, Dr. KJ Yesudas, cultural programs, healthy living, yoga, health walk, meditation, honoring those who worked hard to make a positive impact in their respective areas of work, and  networking and renewing of friendships and bonds were some of the highlights of the 33rd annual convention in the magical city.

Convention Organizing Committee members with Dr. Amish Parikh on the podium
Convention Organizing Committee members with Dr. Amish Parikh on the podium

The convention was inaugurated here on Thursday, June 18th, 2015 with AAPI members rededicating themselves to give back to their motherland, India. A major objective of AAPI has been about giving back to India and USA. AAPI India Engagement was a way of coordinating these individual efforts for the sake of streamlining them and to make it easier and sustainable in the a way that more members can contribute and help make a positive impact in the lives of millions of Indians.

AAPI had three dynamic speakers, Vani Tripathi,  Dr. Margaret McLaren, and Bhakti Sharma, at the Women’s Forum, who  were selected for not only for their enthralling speaking abilities and their expertise in their fields, but also for the varied messages they were able to individually convey to a packed audience at the Discovery Hall.

The event also dthe AAPI Golf Classic, AAPI’s Got Talent and the Be Fit Be Cool Walk in partnership with the Orlando Health Foundation as part of AAPI’s National Childhood Obesity program. Notable Speakers at the event included US Surgeon General Vice Admiral (VADM) Vivek H. Murthy, Kailash Satyarthi, 2014 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, recognized for his works against child labor; Sri Sri Ravi Shankar a humanitarian leader and a spiritual teacher; Preet Bharara, US Attorney for the Southern District of New York; and several top Indian performers including Mystic India, Jay Sean, Sonu Nigam and K J Yesudas.

The conference provided an enriching platform for members comprised of medical, mental health, and dental physicians in American to engage with the latest in medical technology, research and advances in the world of all types of medicine and dental. The convention included CME and DME accredited courses as well as variety of panel discussions, presentations and a research competition. There were forums for AAPI Young Physicians Group (AAPI YPS) and for AAPI MSRF for medical students, residents and fellows. A nearly sold out Exhibitor Hall included medical and pharmaceutical products, jeweler, fashion designs, devices and equipment and medical and dental, practice-related services.

A section of the audience during the Gala at the 33rd annual convention.
A section of the audience during the Gala at the 33rd annual convention.

Delegates of AAPI that represents nearly 100,000 Physicians, Fellows, and Residents in the United States, were led to meditate after an inspiring address on Yoga and Health by global thought and spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The unique event served as a platform for the AAPI members to discuss the importance of meditation in resolving the nation’s pressing health concerns and how Ayurveda, Yoga, and Meditations, the ancient traditions of India offer solutions to the most pressing health problems of the world.

Dr. Jain called upon AAPI members to join in this historic journey: “AAPI’s mission is clear, our programs will continue to strive and our impact is infectious on benefiting society. We as physicians make significant contributions for the betterment of people’s lives. As members we can make these contributions through the 4 E’s: Excellence of Education, Empowerment, Enlightenment, and Evolution. Today I ask you to set aside your differences, and join me in this noble journey to make our mission possible! We make history – starting today!”

For more details, please visit: www.aapiusa.org

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