The Indian Panorama

Tag: Dr. Anupama Gotimukula

  • AAPI Convention Teaser Offers Glimpses of 40th Annual Convention in San Antonio, TX

    AAPI Convention Teaser Offers Glimpses of 40th Annual Convention in San Antonio, TX

    Focus On “Heal The Healers: Rejuvenate And Rekindle Your Mind And Your Spirits”

    SAN ANTONIO, TX (TIP): “It is with great pleasure that we want to welcome you to the 40th Annual Convention and Scientific Sessions of American Association of Physicians of Indian origin (AAPI), which will be held from June 23-26, 2022 in the historic city of San Antonio, Texas,” Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, President of AAPI said during the much anticipated Convention Teaser organized virtually on Sunday, May 15th. “We are planning a historic convention in San Antonio to celebrate 40 years of AAPI that coincides with 75 years of India’s Independence, with excellent educational sessions and other programs.” Dr. Gotimukula, the 4th woman President in the history of AAPI, who has been leading AAPI to newer heights with her dynamic leadership, while thanking the Organizing Committee led by Dr. Jayesh Shah, praised the dedication and generosity of each member for giving their best, to make this Convention truly a memorable one for every participant.

    “Bienvenidos a San Antonio, Tejas!” Dr. Jayesh Shah, Convention Chair and past President of AAPI said in Texan style. “It is with great pleasure that I, along with the San Antonio -2022 Convention Team, welcome you to the 40th AAPI Annual Convention in San Antonio, the 8th largest city in the US. I still have vivid memories of inviting you to San Antonio in 2014. This is going to be the 4th convention in Texas.” The Convention Teaser provided a glimpse of the 40th annual Convention with its theme, “Heal the Healers — Rejuvenate And Rekindle Your Mind And Your Spirits.” “Our physician members have worked very hard during the Covid 19 pandemic as the 2022 convention is a perfect time to heal the healers with a special focus on wellness,” said Dr. Jayesh Shah.

    Put together by a highly talented and dedicated Team of Convention Committee members, the 4 days long event will be filled with programs and activities that cater to the body, mind and soul. The Convention is going to be a unique experience for everyone, he added.

    Dr. Jayesh Shah introduced the strong and dedicated team of Convention Committee members, including Mr. Venky Adivi, Chief Executive Officer of the Convention; Dr. Aruna Venkatesh, Convention Treasurer; Dr. Vijay Koli, Past President of AAPI & Convention Advisor; Dr. Rajam Ramamurthy, Convention Advisor; Chief Operating Officers, R. Reddy Yeluru and Ram Joolukuntla; Dr. Rajeev Suri, President of TIPSSW  & Co-Chair of the Convention, and the other Co-Chairs of the Convention, including Dr. Shankar Sanka, Dr. Hetal Nayak, and Dr. Kiran Cheruku.

    Honoring India, as she celebrates 75 years of India’s Independence is part of the convention, being co-sponsored by the Embassy of India & the Consulate General of India (CGI) – Houston. Each day of the convention will have a specific theme. On Thursday, the theme chosen is “Unity in Diversity” and the delegates will showcase one’s own state dress code. Heritage India is the theme for Friday honoring and celebrating India’s rich culture and diversity. On Saturday, the focus is on the much-loved Bollywood with a special performance by popular Bollywood singer Shaan, followed by Mehfil. The food served each will match the theme chosen for each day, he added.

    Some of the major events at the convention include: Workshops and hands-on sessions on well-being, 10-12 hours of CMEs, Women’s Forum, CEOs Forum, “AAPI Got Talent”, Mehfil, Bollywood Nite, Fashion Show, Medical Jeopardy, Abstract Posters/Research Contest, Alumni and Young Physicians events and Exhibition and Sale of Jewelry, Clothing, Medical Equipment, Pharma, Finance and many more.

    The convention will be held at the newly renovated Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center in San Antonio, TX located on the colorful and vibrant River Walk. This world-class facility will afford an intimate setting that will facilitate one’s ability to convey cutting-edge research and CME, promote business relationships, and display ethnic items. Vendor satisfaction and comfort are our top priorities.

    Giving an overview of the programs for each day, Venky Adivi said, ““It takes a whole village to put together a fabulous convention, I am grateful to committee members, Chairs and Advisors. Special thanks to Ms. Vijaya Kodali for her expertise and skills.”

    According to Dr. Rajeev Suri, President, TIPS SW, and Convention Co-Chair, please get your Sombrero (Mexican Hat) ready for a special evening organized by Texas Indo- American Physician Society (SW Chapter) and culminate with Bollywood Dandiya Night,

    Saturday Evening will begin with the Presidential Banquet, which will be followed by a live show by Bollywood’s one of the best “Shaan” Night. Sunday, we bid you “Hasta la Vista” with a closing ceremony,” said Dr. Vijay Koli, Advisor to the Convention.

    Dr. Kiran Cheraku, Co-Chair of the Convention said, “On Friday, a popular Fashion Show, Abby V show and colorful Rajasthani dance is awaiting you.”  “On Saturday with the Celebration of International Day of Yoga on Riverwalk, imagine 100’s of people doing Yoga all around the Riverwalk,” pointed out Dr. Rajam Ramamurthy, Advisor for the Convention.

    AAPI delegates will have a multidisciplinary CME conference that allows specialists and primary care physicians to interact in an academic forum. World-renowned speakers will discuss gaps between current and best practice of wide-ranging topics at the CME sessions.

    Dr. Shankar Sanka, Co-Chair stated: “The 2022 exhibit hall is the vibrant nerve center of the convention. The unique layout offers maximum exposure to the pharmaceutical and commercial booth.”

    Dr. Aruna Venkatesh, Treasurer of the Convention added: “The exhibition stage will have the performance to keep our audience in the exhibit hall to keep our booth supporters happy. The research pavilion will enable you to view the outstanding works of our students, residents, and fellows.”

    Dr. Hetal Nayak stated, ‘the most unique part of the convention is our Yoga-based Wellness Package which is thoughtfully created with world-renowned speakers. The experience can transform and inspire you.” In addition to colorful entertainment, exquisite authentic Indian cuisine, esteemed yoga gurus and experts, who will share their wisdom and lead the Wellness Sessions include: Paramguru Sharatha Jois, Sadhvi Bhagawati, Saraswati Eddie Stern, Dr. Sat Bir Khalsa, Dr. Dilip Sarkar, Dr. Pankaj Vij, and Dr. Param Dedhia. “Our speakers are some of the best names in Wellness and Yoga- Dr. Akil Taher, Eddie Stern, Dr. Kaushik Reddy, Dr. Ajeya Joshi, Yog Guru Sharath Jois, Drs. P Vij & P. Dedhia, Sadhvi Saraswati, Dr, Smita Mehta, Dr. Sat Bir Khalsa. And do not miss the world-famous yoga workshop by Yog Guru Sharath Jois,” said Dr. Kiran Cheruku, Convention Co-Chair.

    The confirmed Plenary Speakers are Dr. Jack Reseneck, AMA President, and Dr. Peter Hotez, Nobel Prize Nominee. Other confirmed guests are legendary Sunil Gavaskar and Dr. Rahul Gupta, Director, National Drug Control Policy, World-renowned spiritual leader Sadhvi Saraswati and Dr. Prem Reddy, CEO of Prime Health Services.

    For the first time ever, AAPI is planning to organize an In-Person Plenary Session on India-USA Healthcare Partnership with the Health Minister of India, Mansukh Mandaviya (invited but awaiting confirmation from his office) during the Convention on Saturday, June 25th.  “Little Master” Sunil Gavaskar praised AAPI members for being part of the “greatest profession in the world.” He said, “It’s a unique honor to be part of the important AAPI convention in Texas. I am looking forward to meeting you all in Texas.” Mr. Gavaskar referred to his association with the “Heart to Heart Foundation” and how the Foundation is touching many hearts around the world.

    “Physicians and healthcare professionals from across the country and from around the world will convene and participate in the scholarly exchange of medical advances, to develop health policy agendas, and encourage legislative priorities in the coming year. We look forward to seeing you in San Antonio!” said Dr. Gotimukula. For more details, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit:  www.aapiconvention.org   and www.aapiusa.org

     (Based on a press release issued by Ajay Ghosh)

  • American Association of Physicians of Indian-origin’s women’s panel hosts conference on domestic violence

    American Association of Physicians of Indian-origin’s women’s panel hosts conference on domestic violence

    NEW YORK (TIP): Domestic violence is “a serious public health concern,” said Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, president of the Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI). Delivering welcome speech at a virtual conference on “Ways to Prevent Domestic Violence,” hosted by AAPI’s Women’s Committee on October 17, she pointed out that nearly “one in four women and one in seven men in the U.S. have experienced physical violence at the hands of their domestic partners.”

    The AAPI president said the conference, which was addressed by a number of prominent speakers from the United States and India addressed the conference, was “aimed at helping” her organization’s members “and the larger society to learn on ways to help promote healthy, respectful and nonviolent relationships.”

    “October is ‘Domestic Violence Awareness’ month,” said Dr. Seema Arora, chair of the Women’s Committee. “AAPI women’s physicians committee is trying to increase awareness towards this very prevalent but subdued age-old problem that can affect any gender, race, region & socio-economic strata in a panel discussion with renowned panelists from around the world,” she said.

    Lata Rao, a domestic violence survivor and activist shared her experience referring briefly to her past life and its impact on her physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.

    “I encourage women not to be what I went through” but to be more independent, Rao said. She told the audience how meeting with mentors and having a support system gradually changed her life, while forgiving and staying positive helped me start a new phase in her life. “Today, I use my experiences as a tool to support and educate other women,” she said.

    Dr. Pretti Saran, another domestic violence survivor and currently practicing Family Medicine & Obesity Specialist at RNJ Barnabas Hospital, in New Jersey, also shared her experience and pointed out that domestic violence is prevalent in all parts of the world. “Coming from a very traditional society back in India, initially I thought it was happening to me because of my background,” she said.

    Dr. Saran said she had suffered immensely from insecurity and complications of married life with intimidation and worry for her own life since she was married to a dominating person who was demanding yet suspicious and had trust issues. She was able to turn her life around, though, and has left a positive impact on society.

    Another speaker, Deanne Mazzochi, spoke about her work as a state legislator and an attorney who works with women and families in Illinois to ensure that people who are victims of domestic violence are protected. She went over the many statutes and legal systems that victims in Illinois have access to. She said that one should “ensure that you have a safe place to live,” if and when you want to leave an unhealthy relationship.

    Dr. Manju Sheth, an internist, practicing medicine at Beth Israel Lahey in Massachusetts, urged fellow physicians “to stay vigilant and collaborate” and look for signs and red flags to identify violence “as the patients can present with a multitude of unrelated symptoms that only compassionate questions can reveal clearly.” She requested her colleagues to be prepared to collaborate with medical and psychological professionals as “women are very reluctant to speak to you and we often notice PTSD, trauma, depression and anxiety.”

    Dr. Sheth is the chair and advisory board member of SAHELI and a member of Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence. Dr. Nandita Palshetkar, the president of Federation of OB/GYN Society of India and chair of GAPIO Women’s Forum, provided a worldwide perspective on how the pandemic has influenced the rise in domestic violence incidences. “Nearly one third of women across the world face Shadow Pandemic Domestic Violence,” she said. Palshetkar also serves

    Jaya Nelliot, a board member and outreach director of the nonprofit ASHIANA, described domestic violence as a “pandemic”. “The best way is to create awareness and provide resources and help lead the victims of Domestic Violence to be strong and independent and safe,” she said.

    ASHIANA has been assisting South Asians in the United States for the past 25 years in empowering domestic abuse survivors to attain self-sufficiency via a culturally sensitive approach.

    Navneet Bhalla, executive director of Manavi, a nonprofit that campaigns against gender-based violence, spoke about how frequently abusers frame and wrongly accuse victims as criminals and threaten deportation, based on personal experiences.

    “Manvai supports such victims and help them gain justice and needed services. We take a survivor-center approach to understand and to provide support them holistically,” she said.

    Bhalla was introduced by Dr. Hetal Gor, a member of AAPI Women’s Committee.

    (Press release)

  • AAPI Launches Adopt-A-Village – A Rural Health Initiative in India

    AAPI Launches Adopt-A-Village – A Rural Health Initiative in India

    Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu & Consul Generals from all 5 Consulates in US applaud AAPI’s Efforts

    CHICAGO (TIP): Continuing with its magnificent efforts to help their motherland, members of American Associati9on of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), the premier medical organization in the United States initiated Adopt-A-Village, a Rural Health Initiative in India during a virtual launch event on Friday, August 27, 2021. Chaired by, Dr. Satheesh Kathula, the much needed and popular program has Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, Dr. Jagan Ailinani and Dr. Ram Singh as members of the Committee. In a rare show of support for AAPI, Consul Generals of Chicago, New York, Houston, Atlanta and the Deputy CG of San Francisco participated live during the launch of this noble initiative. Ambassador of India to US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu joined the meeting with his message and lauded the numerous efforts of AAPI for India, especially during the pandemic.

    Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, President, AAPI, in her welcome address, referred to the objectives of Adopt-A-Village. “A lot of efforts are being put into this initiative, “Adopt a Village” Project where AAPI in collaboration with Global TeleClinics, Inc., plans to adopt 75 villages in honor of 75 years of India’s independence,” she said.  “As India celebrates her 75th anniversary Independence Day celebrations, AAPI has planned to adopt 75 villages in India spread across the states of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana, where the rural people of India will be offered ‘Free Health Screenings in 75 Rural Villages’ for Anemia (CBC), DM (HbA1C), High Cholesterol, CKD, Malnutrition, Kidney Disease, Malnutrition, Obesity, and Hypoxemia.  Results analyzed by GTC and further action recommended by their team of experts will be also, followed up. This is a small contribution from AAPI to Mother India in celebration of Azadi Ka  Amrut Mahotsav.” Dr. Anupama thanked the AAPI members for their generous support for this noble work of AAPI and for sponsoring their ancestral villages and going back to their roots.

    In his opening remarks, Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Chairman of AAPI’s Adopt A Village Program pointed out about the need for this noble initiative. He said, India has nearly 700,000 villages. Three out of four Indians and about 77 percent of the poor live in villages. The majority of the population has no access to safe drinking water and sanitation. The needs in these rural areas are unlimited and the scope to work are endless. “By adopting one village at a time and working with the government and NGOs, NRIs can make a difference,” he said. Dr. Kathula referred to some of the programs in place in several rural villages, including supply of Cloth mask, clean drinking water and free health care screening that has benefitted thousands of people Across India.

    Dr. Ravi Kolli, President-Elect of AAPI, said, “While India has made substantial progress in health care as evidenced by the fact that life expectancy in India at birth now is 71 years as opposed to 58 years in 1990 and 41 years in 1960, there are significant gaps and divergence in health metrics in different regions in India. India, thus needs to redouble and continue its efforts and dedicate resources to tackle these perennial challenges. The post graduate training of physicians specializing in Family Medicine in every teaching institution will create a motivated and well-trained family physicians to address these deficits and deliver accessible, affordable, economical and continuous preventive and primary care to rural as well urban poor populations to raise health outcomes substantially all across India,” he said.

    “An individual can make a tremendous difference in the lives of many in India by adopting a village,” said Dr. Jagan Ailinani, who was instrumental in founding this noble program and set an example by adopting his own birth village in the state of Telangana in India. “A majority of the NRI’s hail from villages and would like to do their part to bring progress to villages in our state and country.”

    Dr. Ram Singh said: “NRIs can adopt the village they hail from originally and make a significant contribution towards its development. There is a real will and desire on the part of governments, both at the state and the center to work with NRIs and NGOs to bring development to rural India.”

    Dr. Kusum Punjabi, Chair of AAPI BOT said, “Many of these projects and programs need regular funding, and management of resources. We are grateful to dozens of AAPI members who have committed to Adopting a village in India with an ongoing commitment for investment.”

    Ambassador Taranjit Singh, in his message to AAPI members, said, “As India is entering 75th year of independence, honoring men and women, who fought for the freedom, we rededicate ourselves to build an India where the dreams and aspirations of India’s 13 billion people are realized.” He urged the Diaspora community to come forward to honor INDIA by joining in the year-long celebrations.

    Dr. Jayesh Shah, past President of AAPI, introduced Consul General of India in Houston, Aseem Mahajan. In his address on “Indo-US Relationship In Healthcare -Rural Health Perspective” Ambassador Mahajan told the AAPI members: “You are true the heroes and partners with us, and you make us proud, especially during the critically vital Covid times.” Urging the Diaspora to contribute towards strengthening of India’s partnership with the US, Mr. Mahajan focused on India-US partnership on various health related issues, while stressing the many healthcare initiatives by the Government of India. “AAPI can play a big role in rural health, which has been a priority for the Government of India,” he said. He thanked and appreciated the many Doctors, who are already doing similar noble initiatives, helping the rural communities have access to clean drinking water. “We can work together, collaborating and sharing of knowledge and expertise, including Medical Education,” he told AAPI.

    Dr.  Suresh Reddy, past President of AAPI and currently an elected Trustee of Oakbrook Village in Illinois, after introducing the Consul General of India in Chicago, Amit Kumar, announced that he is adopting his native village in the state of Telengana. In his address, Mr. Kumar spoke about “Rural Health In India, The Current Situation,” and focused on technological areas in healthcare development in the rural parts of India. “Your activities and the message to spread awareness on Covid and for providing PPEs to India are highly appreciated,” he told AAPI members, pointing to the fact that India has vaccinated over 600 million people and he hoped that India will offer vaccines to majority of India’s vast population soon.

    Introduced by Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, immediate past President of India, Consul General of India in Atlanta Dr. Swati Kulkarni focused on “How AAPI and Doctors can Help India.” She said, “It’s important and laudable that you have undertaken to help India during the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence. Dr. Kulkarni shared her views on how AAPI and the government of India can collaborate in: Diplomacy for development, where “India needs overseas expertise, and you are best suited to offer,” she said, while calling upon Indian American Doctors to be part of India’s efforts to enhance the GDP. “India’s healthcare industry is growing rapidly there is more scope for growth with expanded pharma industry and medical tourism. She stressed the need for AAPI’s role in enhancing India-US political partnership, where AAPI is “a major stake holder,” she said.

    Dr. Mukesh Nigam introduced Consul General of India in New York, Randhir Jaiswal. In his address on “Rural Health in India: The Challenges and Solutions” Ambassador Jaiswal said, “This noble initiative by AAPI has become more meaningful especially during the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence.” Reminding AAPI members of Modi’s call to rebuild a new India, he said, “AAPI’s initiative is even more meaningful and fits well into PM’s vision for India.” He said, ‘We applaud and thank AAPI for coming forward to help India, especially during the covid pandemic.”

    Dr. Sujeeth Punnam, a renowned cardiologist introduced Deputy Consul General of India in San Francisco, Rajesh Naik. While speaking on “Rural Health, What India can learn from Developed Nations” Mr. Naik said, “AAPI has provided tremendous support as India and Indian community were struggling with the challenges of Covid. You rose to the occasion and came forward to help and support, which have been highly appreciated by the Diaspora.” During the 2nd Covid surge, AAPI stepped forward and have sent out Millions of Dollars of medical supplies to Indi, he said. While pointing to the many challenges of healthcare in rural India, Mr. Naik urged how AAPI could offer tele medical consultation in rural India, especially focusing on the preventive aspect of health in India.

    Dr. Anjana Samadder, Vice President of AAPI, said, “By adopting one village at a time and working with the government and NGOs, NRIs can make a huge difference in the lives of millions of people in India. Each project will involve a tripartite partnership between the NRI, state government and a local NGO.”

    Dr. Krishan Kumar, Treasurer of AAPI pointed out, “The cost for adopting a village depends on various factors, including the population of the villages, the services that are required and what one is willing to commit to for the welfare and progress of the village one is committing to adopt.”

    Dr. Lokesh Edara, chair for AAPI’s global initiative, while focusing on international medicine and how India is lagging behind in medical care, while urging the Government of India, pointed to how India needs to focus on Post Graduate Medical professionals rather than having Doctors with undergraduate degree alone.

    (Press Release issued by Ajay Ghosh)

     

  • Women Lead AAPI

    An Independence Day Salute to them

    CHICAGO, IL (TIP)“It’s been truly historic and a very proud moment for American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) to have a majority of the current leadership of this noble organization being held by Women Leaders,” Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, President of AAPI, declared here today. “Never has there ever been such a strong representation of women leaders in AAPI’s leadership positions. It’s been a privilege and a challenge to be lead AAPI as AAPI celebrates 40 years of dedicated service to the United States, India and the world.”

    Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, President of AAPI

    Dr. Gotimukula, the only 4th woman president of AAPI in the 40 years old history of AAPI has a strong and dynamic leadership of women leaders at AAPI for the year 2020-21. Dr. Kusum Punjabi serves as the Chair of AAPI Board of Trustees; Dr. Soumya Neravetla is the President of Young Physicians Section (YPS,) while Dr. Ayesha Singh is the President is the Medical Student/Residents & Fellows Section (MSRF.) Dr. Anjana Samadder, who serves as the Vice President of AAPI is in succession for the top AAPI leadership position in the year 2023-24.

    A resident of San Antonio, TX, Dr.Gotimukula is a board-certified Pediatric Anesthesiologist, practicing since 2007, has beenan active member and leader of AAPI over a decade.

    As a Healthcare Leader, Dr. Gotimukula recognizes that “AAPI has power. We have legitimate respect and trust of our communities in every corner of America. AAPI will leverage that power of our purpose and networks to help address specific challenges related to affordable healthcare delivery.”

    Dr. Kusum Punjabi, Chair of AAPI Board of Trustees

    Dr. Kusum Punjabi, a very young and energetic leader of AAPI, assumed office as the Chair of Board of Trustees of AAPI on July 4th. The youngest to date to be holding this position in AAPI’s 40 years long history and the first person to go to medical school in the USA, Dr. Punjabi says, “My goal as Chair of the Board is to develop long lasting programs within AAPI that promote professionalism, unity, mentorship and inclusivity. I hope to clearly re-define AAPI’s mission of service, academic achievement and supporting Indian Physicians working in America through advocacy and leadership. I want patients to know the value of the care they receive from our ethnic group and our mission of promoting the safest and best healthcare practices for our patients.”

    Dr. Anjana Samadder, Vice President of AAPI

    Dr. Anjana Samadder, Vice President of AAPI says, “My journey with AAPI in the past 20 years taught me lots of lessons, skills and molded me to take more responsibility in the organization. I will bring to the organization the level of commitment, hard work, experience and skill set needed to accomplish the various goals for AAPI and its members.”  Her vision for AAPI is “to help build an ethically strong, morally straight and fiscally responsible organization. It is also vitally important to bring much needed diversity to keep AAPI thriving.”

    Dr. Soumya Neravetla, President of Young Physicians Section (YPS,)

    A second generation Indian American, born, raised and educated in the US, Dr. Soumya Neravetla, president of YPS, is a Cardiothoracic Surgeon actively engaged in the welfare of physicians of Indian Origin and the general public. She has extensive Trans catheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) experience including launching and directing TAVR programs.  She has also directed and spearheaded Robotic Thoracic Surgery and lung cancer related programs. In spite of her busy work schedule, she collaborates with her father, Dr. Surender Reddy Neravetla (author of Salt Kills), in his mission to spread awareness about prevention of cardiovascular disease, which disproportionately affects physicians and people of Indian Origin. She is a popular medical speaker and has given several talks to medical communities and the general public, including an invitation to personally speak to the Governor of Ohio and the Ohio Department of Health.

    By her example, Dr. Neravetla wants to motivate physicians of her generation to engage in their communities and AAPI. She has been an active member of AAPI, serving on many committees over the years with the hope of helping AAPI evolve into a meaningful organization for future generations.“Empowering Indian physicians and fostering career growth have been passions of mine,” says the multi-talented dynamic leader of AAPI. In her role, she hopes“to increase career networking and mentorship opportunities, and arm physicians and physicians in training with tools to better navigate their careers.  In addition, I am working to amplify AAPI’s virtual presence by enhancing website features and introducing an app.”  Understanding the current challenging situation due to the ongoing pandemic, Dr. Neravetla says, “We hope new activities like virtual job fairs, interactive chat functions and amplifying our social media presence will engage current and future generations.

    Dr. Ayesha Singh,President, Medical Student/Residents & Fellows Section (MSRF.)

    Ayesha Singh, a 4th year medical student at the University of Louisville (Louisville, KY), had joined AAPI in 2017 and held her first leadership position on the MSRF board as Secretary in 2018. In 2019, she was elected as MSRF Vice President. She is passionate about her clinical research in atherosclerosis and spends most of her free time volunteering as Director of Patient Services for a free cardiovascular specialty clinic in the Louisville area. Ayesha is currently applying for Internal Medicine residency with plans to pursue a career in Interventional Cardiology.  Singh’s vision for MSRF is “to connect, inspire, and grow our community. I hope to further our reach to Indian American medical students by developing the mentorship program, providing research and academic opportunities, and hosting student-specific events on Step 1/2/3 prep, residency/fellowship applications, interview workshops and more.”

    The young and aspiring Medical Professional is grateful to AAPI as “AAPI has enriched my life professionally, socially, and personally. I’ve found mentors, role models, and friends that share my heritage, passion for medicine and commitment to community service. I believe aggressive outreach that highlights AAPI’s vast network, resources, and benefits will inspire membership among young professionals and future leaders that will be dedicated to preserving the legacy of this organization.”

    Other leaders who constitute the current executive committee include Dr. Ravi Kolli, President-Elect, who will be the President of AAPI in 2022-23; Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Secretary and Dr. Krishan Kumar, Treasurer of AAPI.

    Dr. Ravi Kolli is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with additional qualifications in Addiction, Geriatric and Forensic Psychiatry, and serves as Psychiatric Medical Director of Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services. Dr. Satheesh Kathula is a clinical professor of medicine at Wright State University- BonshoSchool of medicine, Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Krishan Kumar is a pediatric emergency medicine physician in East Meadow, New York and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the New York region.

    “While in the 176 years of American Medical Association (AMA) there have been only five women Presidents,” Dr. Ravi Kolli noted. “AAPI, now only in its 40th year, has the 4th female president. Dr. Anupama Gotimukula and a galaxy of women leaders are leading all the sections of AAPI, including BOT, YPS and MSRF. This is a proud moment for AAPI and a testimony of AAAPI ‘s commitment to diversity and equality in all aspects of its functioning.”

    Quoting statics, Dr. Kolli pointed out that in the United States, women physicians comprise of nearly 37.8 % of all practicing physicians (390,202 of 1,058,628) and their numbers are rising fast. The proportion of female physicians under the age of 35 in the US is 60.6% and in the age group of 35-44, it is 51.5%. So, there will be a welcome sea change in the leadership of Health Care in the USA going forward. The good news is that patients hospitalized under the care of female physicians had better outcome and lower re-hospitalization rate according to a 2016 Harvard study (December 19, 2016, in JAMA Internal Medicine). Dr. Kolli said, “American Health care and its leadership is in safe hands, and I am so proud to support them in any way in my capacity as the President-Elect of AAPI.”

    Serving 1 in every 7 patients in the US, AAPI members care for millions of patients every day, while several of them have risen to hold high flying jobs, shaping the policies and programs and inventions that shape the landscape of healthcare in the US and around the world.

    “Fortunate to be leading AAPI with this amazing group of dedicated women leaders,” says Dr. Gotimukula. “We at AAPI have so much more room to grow and serve. I challenge myself, my Executive Committee to rise up to the task of building on our accomplishments and successes over the last several decades. My team, along with the dynamic group of women leaders has defined several goals for this year to further AAPI’s mission.”  For more details, please visit: www.appiusa.org

     

  • AAPI Raises over $5 Million towards Covid Relief Efforts in India

    AAPI Raises over $5 Million towards Covid Relief Efforts in India

    Provides 2300 Oxygen Concentrators, 100 Ventilators And 100 High Flow Nasal Canula Machines to 45 Hospitals in India

    CHICAGO (TIP): The deadly Corona virus has claimed millions of lives and it has placed the entire healthcare sector both in India and the United States under tremendous stress. While the Indian American medical fraternity has been at the frontlines of the fight against the pandemic, American Association of physicians of Indian origin (AAPI), the largest ethnic medical organization in the USA representing the interest of more than 100,000 physicians in the USA, has stepped up to the plate to deal with the crisis of India during its second deadly wave.

    “The generosity of the members of AAPI and Indian community has been unprecedented,” says Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, President of AAPI. “I want to thank the AAPI fraternity, for not only contributing $5 Million towards Covid Relief Funds, but has spent hundreds of hours in coordinating and disbursing the vital medical supplies to the most needed hospitals across India.”

    “Thanks to the overwhelming support of its members that AAPI has raised almost $5 million in the past few months,” said Dr. Kusum Punjabi, Chair of AAPI BOT, who has dedicated her services at the Emergency Department, serving thousands of Covid patients in the New Jersey.

    “During my entire year of presidency, impacted by the deadly pandemic, AAPI has initiated several efforts to help our Mother India,” recalls Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, Immediate past president of AAPI. “Aptly so, the annual Convention last month in Atlanta was a tribute to frontline healthcare professionals who have devoted their lives and work serving humanity during the COVID-19 pandemic,” he added.

    Many parts of India continue to face the deadly second wave of COVID-19. Number of reported Covid positive cases seems to be on the rise and thousands reportedly die daily. Hospitals and medical facilities face shortage of oxygen and ICU beds, with patients lacking in adequate care.

    “We have been working very diligently in sending oxygen concentrators and ventilators to India, to deal with the calamity in India and are in the process of helping to set up oxygen generator plants in different hospitals in India,” added, Dr. Ravi Kolli, President-Elect of AAPI.

    Dr. Sujeeth Punnam, AAPI’s Regional Director, who has been one of the many AAPI leaders who has been coordinating the efforts said, “Thus far, AAPI has provided 2300 Concentrators, 100 Ventilators and 100 High Flow Nasal Canula Machines To 45 Hospitals in India as part of the Covid Pandemic Relief Efforts.”

    As some predict a 3rd wave of the pandemic in India, AAPI has been planning and collaborating with several agencies and the government of India to help reach the much-needed care and supplies to the remotest places in India.  “AAPI will continue to use the remaining funds in preparation of the impending Covid 3rd wave,” said Dr. Anjana Samaddar,” Vice-President of AAPI.

    Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Secretary of AAPI said, “AAPI has been coordinating several efforts, including tele-health to patients and Doctors in India. Thanks to the overwhelming support of its members that AAPI has raised over $5 million.” “The outbreak of Covid 19 has caused significant health-related social, political and economic consequences worldwide. AAPI members have been working very hard in sending medical equipment to India,” Dr. Krishan Kumar, Treasurer of AAPI pointed out.

    “We are discussing about coordinating efforts to make available the much-needed vaccines in the Slum areas in Delhi and Hyderabad where compliance is very low and apart from lifesaving equipment for severe Covid patients’ management in ICUs,” said Dr. Anil Tibrewal, who has been in the forefront leading AAPI’s efforts to help India during the Covid.

    As AAPI cannot direct its resources to specific areas and relies on government of India to distribute its supplies, Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, past Secretary of AAPI and several other AAPI leaders have been working outside of the umbrella of AAPI for direct transfer of the essential material, focusing mainly on the peripheral hospitals who do not get aid readily.  HELP INDIA BREATHE is a part of ApShiNi ventures’ endeavor by a group of doctors in helping individuals to donate Oxygen related supplies to India during this unprecedented calamity.

    “The past year, while posing major challenges have also provided opportunities for AAPI to continue to work together in helping realize the mission of AAPI,” said Dr. Gotimukula. “We are proud that several Indian American physicians are recognized globally for their contributions to combat the deadly pandemic. We will continue our efforts and give our best to our Motherland in her fight against the deadly pandemic.” For more information on AAPI, please visit: www.aapiusa.org

    (Press Release)

  • Dr. Anupama Gotimukula is the New President for AAPI

    Dr. Anupama Gotimukula is the New President for AAPI

    ATLANTA (TIP) July 5: Dr. Anupama Gotimukula assumed charge as the President of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), during the 39th annual Convention of America’s largest ethnic physician organization in Atlanta on July 4.

    During a solemn ceremony attended in person by hundreds of AAPI delegates from around the nation at the Omni Atlanta, outgoing AAPI President Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalgadda passed on the gavel to Dr. Gotimukula.

    “I am happy to declare that AAPI is stronger and is going to be in safe hands, as I pass on the traditional gavel to Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, the new President of AAPI,” he said.

    “We came to the US pursuing the American Dream,” said the fourth woman President of AAPI in it 39 years long history in her inaugural address, noting AAPI helps “to elevate the voice of Indian Americans everywhere.”

    “Through hard work and a bit of luck, most of us achieved that dream and have become successful and caring doctors who play a crucial role in the American healthcare system, “she said.

    “We serve patients. Raise money for local causes. Contribute to our education system and improve the lives of millions of Americans,” Gotimukula said.

    “We joined AAPI to socialize and meet others like us and in that journey learned that through this wonderful organization, we were able to make a bigger impact with the many academic, philanthropic and social initiatives.”

    Acknowledging and thanking “our founding members and all the past leadership of AAPI who contributed to the growth of the organization,” Dr. Gotimukula said, “We stand on the shoulders of our predecessors.”

    They “fought the good fight in bringing AAPI to where we stand today; vibrant, strong, healthcare heroes being recognized and valued by our peers, communities and most importantly the patients.” Healthcare professionals have made a significant difference in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic, Dr. Gotimukula noted.

    “AAPI and our members have been on the frontlines serving patients, working with local public health authorities donating and distributing resources such as PPEs, critical hospital supplies as well as most recently providing much needed oxygen concentrators and ventilators in India.

    “You are truly healthcare heroes who stood up and risked your lives to serve when it was most needed. A value that is not just American but also something we brought along from our motherland of India,” she said.

    Dr. Gotimukula has a new Executive Committee, consisting of Dr. Ravi Kolli, President-Elect; Dr. Anjana Samadder, Vice President; Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Secretary; Dr. Krishan Kumar, Treasurer; Dr. Kusum Punjabi, Chair, Board of Trustees; Dr. Soumya Neravetla- President, Young Physicians Section; and, Dr. Ayesha Singh, President, Medical Student/Residents & Fellows Section.

    Dr. Gotimukula will lead AAPI as its President in the year 2021-2022, the largest Medical Organization in the United States, representing the interests of the over 100,000 physicians and Fellows of Indian origin in the United States, serving the interests of the Indian American physicians in the US and in many ways contributing to the shaping of the healthcare delivery in the US for the past 39 years.

    “As we look forward to the future beyond Covid-19, we at AAPI have so much more room to grow and serve,” Dr. Gotimukula said outlining her vision to make AAPI a premium healthcare leader, primarily focusing to improve and reform the current healthcare system.

    I challenge myself, my Executive Committee, and you all, my AAPI colleagues, to rise up to the task of building on our accomplishments and successes over the last several years. My team and I have defined several goals for this year to further AAPI’s mission, along three key dimensions.”

    “As one of the biggest stakeholders in the current healthcare system, there is an urgent need for Healthcare & Societal Reform, she said. “We need to be a part of the change we want in our healthcare system.”

    Dr. Gotimukula urged AAPI to “improve health equity; get rid of discrimination; fight South Asian racial bias; reduce physician burnout; and improve the career trajectory of the younger generation of Indian American doctors who will be taking care of us as we age.”

    A resident of San Antonio, Texas, Dr. Gotimukula is a board certified pediatric anesthesiologist, practicing since 2007, is affiliated with Christus Santa Rosa, Baptist and Methodist Healthcare systems in San Antonio.

    After graduating with distinction from Kakatiya Medical College, NTR University of Health Sciences in India, she did Residency at University of Miami & University of Illinois, and Fellowship in Pediatric Anesthesiology at University of Michigan.

    A resident of San Antonio, Texas, Dr. Gotimukula is a board certified pediatric anesthesiologist, practicing since 2007, is affiliated with Christus Santa Rosa, Baptist and Methodist Healthcare systems in San Antonio.

    Dr. Gotimukula urged the AAPI fraternity to “participate. Get involved. Get engaged. Lend a hand. And stand up and be heard. To all the team members, I want to thank you for your efforts thus far and for the next year ahead. Together we will all make AAPI the community standard bearer for a better future.”

    “My hope is that this year will bring us all back together to see the warm smiling faces from region to region across the country. Let’s move forward and achieve great success together.”

    Earlier, in his farewell address, Dr. Jonnalagadda enumerated several programs AAPI had undertaken under his leadership in the past one year.

    “AAPI has been coordinating several efforts, including tele-health to patients and Doctors in India,” he said. “AAPI will continue to be an active player in crafting the delivery of healthcare in the most efficient manner in the United States and India.”

    “We will strive for equity in healthcare delivery globally. We will be able to take AAPI to stability, unity, growth and greater achievements,” the out-going President said.

    The concluding day of the convention had the usual pomp and show displayed in music and dance by the local organizing committee of the Convention headed by Dr. Sreeni Gangasani.

    (Based on a press release)

     

  • US based Organization AAPI airlifts 1,000 Oxygen concentrators to Covid-19 hit India

    US based Organization AAPI airlifts 1,000 Oxygen concentrators to Covid-19 hit India

    NEW YORK (TIP): As India’s health-care system faces a crisis amid a deadly second wave of coronavirus pandemic, American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) is leading several efforts to bring relief to India.

    The largest ethnic medical organization in the US, representing the 80,000 strong Indian American physician community in the US, airlifted the first batch of 1,000 Oxygen Concentrators on April 29 through SEWA International, according to a press release.

    In collaboration with its partners on ground in India, AAPI has also identified destinations based on urgency and acute need for the medical equipment, AAPI president Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda stated.

    “We have no doubt, this is just the beginning of a long road ahead,” he said. “We are assessing the situation on the ground constantly and coordinating with various local task forces and teams.”

    Dr. Sajani Shah, chair of AAPI Board of Trustees urged members to stay engaged and provide feedback to help AAPI tackle problems in a more effective and efficient manner

    Educating the public and the physicians in India is vital to combat the virus,” says Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, president-elect of AAPI.

    She has reached out to the Indian media across the platform offering regular series of educational materials to be published in India for the use and implementation of effective ways to treat patients who are impacted by Covid-19.

    Dr. Ravi Kolli, AAPI vice president urged members to help secure much needed ventilators, which will also be critically scarce as the morbidity and hospitalization surge, out matching the supplies.

    “AAPI is facilitating interaction between US and Indian doctors to advise them about the evidence-based protocols to treat Covid-19 patients,” Dr. Jonnalagadda said.

    AAPI has evaluated 3 HIPPA compliant telehealth platforms to treat patients in India: http://Mdtok.com/dr/Covid and www.eGobalDoctors.com.

    AAPI is also working on relaxing the restrictions on US physicians to treat patients in India, he said.

    AAPI, Dr. Jonnalagadda said encourages using this route because they give global malpractice coverage and help Indian American physicians to register in India by renewing their India licenses.

    AAPI is in constant touch with Indian Embassy and Indian Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan to see how best “we can help our motherland during this horrific pandemic,” he said.

    AAPI has written to a letter to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lock down the country to contain the spread of the virus, and to ramp up the vaccinations.

    “AAPI has been in the forefront to help India to combat the pandemic,” said Dr. Satheesh Kathula, treasurer, thanking members and non-members for their donations.

    AAPI would like to help India in a big way, said Dr. Jonnalagadda urging all community leaders to educate their members to be on alert to avoid spread of the virus.

  • Indian Americans Physicians body AAPI to ship 200 oxygen concentrators to Covid-19 hit India

    Indian Americans Physicians body AAPI to ship 200 oxygen concentrators to Covid-19 hit India

    CHICAGO (TIP): Amid a devastating second Covid-19 wave in India, American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (APPI), plans to send 200 oxygen concentrators to Indian hospitals with the help of non-profit SEWA International. The largest ethnic medical organization in the US also plans to offer tele-Consult services in India in local languages and organize webinars to educate AAPI members and their counterparts in India on zoom. AAPI has also identified three telehealth platforms that would offer free service to physicians from India/US and patients.

    “In the past week, we have been receiving nothing but mind-numbing news from many countries around the world, particularly in India, the land of our birth,” stated AAPI President Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalgadda. Pointing to the chilling statistics, Jonnalagadda also urged AAPI members and the general public to step up and donate generously as India, our motherland is facing one of the most serious health crises in decades, according to an AAPI press release. “This is the time for immediate AAPI action. As doctors, we all share a visceral urge to do something about it,” he said.

    200 Oxygen concentrators costing around $500 each will be delivered direct to hospitals in India with the help of SEWA International with Indian missions in the US helping with shipping and customs, Jonnalagadda said.

    Describing the current spike in Covid cases in India as “the worst nightmare” Dr. Sajni Shah, Chair of AAPI Board of Trustees pointed out, “This is a far cry from the picture a few months ago about our motherland India, which depicted the virus to be on the decline.” Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, President-Elect, who is leading the AAPI Initiative to help and support plans to help the physicians and the people in India thanked hundreds of AAPI members at the conclusion of a brain storming session on how to help India.

    Dr. Gotimukula announced following steps to help India.

    Groups of physicians will form smaller groups with Indian physicians in their own state/region, and do it yourselves in their own language for Tele-Consult. The Google sheet prepared by AAPI has a list of volunteers that would be updated regularly.

    AAPI has identified three Telehealth platforms that would offer free service to physicians from India/US and patients: 1. EglobalDoctors.com; 2. http://Mdtok.com; and, 3. Click2clinic.com. Apps are available on iOS and Android.

    In addition, with the purpose of educating AAPI members and their counterparts in India, AAPI is organizing educational webinars with small groups of doctors on zoom.

    Dr. Gotimukula urged the physician fraternity to educate their communities on the need to double masking and everyone taking “the vaccine to reduce the intensity of disease if we become Covid positive.”

    AAPI is offering MD-To-MD zoom chats and discussions about one’s patients, disease, course of medicines, and progress daily 7-8 am IST/9:30-10:30 am EST.

    Dr. Ravi Kolli, Vice President of AAPI noted that AAPI members have risen to “the occasion and are offering the much-needed services to their motherland in several ways, individually and collectively.”

    Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, Secretary of AAPI giving details about covid tele-consulting services for Indian doctors said, “We are extremely delighted about the overwhelming response to this.”

    Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Treasurer of AAPI thanked all the volunteers and tele-health platform companies for sharing platforms and offering services at no cost to AAPI members, Indian doctors and patients for treating Covid-19.

    For more details, please visit: AAPI website: http://www.appiusa.orgwww.appiusa.org.

  • AAPI urges government to prevent attacks on Asian Americans

    AAPI urges government to prevent attacks on Asian Americans

    CHICAGO (TIP): Expressing deep concern and anguish about recent attacks against Asian Americans, the American Association of Physicians of India Origin (AAPI) has urged the federal, state and local Governments to make all out efforts to protect them. “AAPI wants to express our deep concern and anguish about the violence the nation has witnessed against people of Asian origin,” AAPI President Dr. Sudhakar Jonnalagadda, stated condemning such incidents. “We at AAPI, the largest ethnic medical organization in the nation, urge the federal, state and local Governments to make all the efforts possible to prevent violence against Asian Americans and all those innocent people around the nation who continue to suffer due to violence, harassment and discrimination.”

    “We strongly condemn this ongoing violence. And we want immediate action against the culprits, who have been carrying on these criminal acts,” Jonnalagadda stated.

    A coalition tracking reports of racism and discrimination against Asian Americans says it has received at least 3,795 firsthand complaints since last year, AAPI noted. Stop AAPI Hate began tracking violence and harassment against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in March last year.

    From then through the end of 2020, Stop AAPI Hate received a total of 3,292 complaints from all 50 states and Washington, DC, according to a Stop AAPI Hate news release.

    There were at least 503 anti-Asian hate incidents reported between January 1 and Feb. 28 according to the group’s latest report, released last week.

    Quoting the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Dr. Sajani Shah, Chair of AAPI Board of Trustees, said, “AAPI recognizes that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights and that everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set out therein, without distinction of any kind, in particular as to race, color or national origin.”

    “All human beings are equal before the law and are entitled to equal protection of the law against any discrimination and against any incitement to discrimination.”

    Recognizing the pain and sufferings of the people impacted by the increasing violence and harassment against Asians and Asians Americans, especially in the past few months, Dr. Anupama Gotimukula, President-Elect of AAPI stressed the need for education.

    “We stand in solidarity with peaceful protestors across the nation condemning the increasing violence and harassment against some minority groups,” said Dr. Ravi Kolli, Vice President of AAPI.

    “As immigrants to the US, our families may not always understand this history, but we join in solidarity with the minority communities and call for justice and peace.”

    “We are saddened by the divisive rhetoric and racial tensions that seem to be getting worse each day. AAPI supports the Bills introduced by two Democratic lawmakers in the House and the Senate calling for the expedited review of hate crimes related to the pandemic,” said Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, Secretary of AAPI.

    Rep. Grace Meng of New York, who sponsored the bill in the House, said she hopes the legislation tackles the “disgusting pattern of hate” that Asian Americans are facing since the start of the pandemic.”

    “We thank and applaud President Joe Biden for condemning the hate and discrimination that Asian Americans have faced,” said Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Treasurer of AAPI.

    “We support his call to do what we all as a nation can do to save lives, working with each other, preventing vicious hate crimes against Asian Americans, who have been attacked, harassed, blamed and scapegoated,”