ABnewz
Contents
- 1 A Historic Moment: Indian-Origin Doctor Bobby Mukkamala Takes the Helm as AMA President
- 1.1 Dr. Mukkamala’s Journey: From Brain Surgery to AMA Presidency
- 1.2 A Call to Action: Reforming the US Healthcare System
- 1.3 A Longstanding Advocate for Healthcare Reform
- 1.4 A Tribute to His Parents
- 1.5 Highlighting Health Disparities in Underserved Cities
- 1.6 A Growing Shortage of Physicians
- 1.7 A Vision for Accessible, Affordable Care
- 1.8 Join the Conversation
- 1.9 Join the community of 2M+ industry professionals
- 1.10 Download the ETHealthworld App
- 1.11 Download ETHealthworld App
A Historic Moment: Indian-Origin Doctor Bobby Mukkamala Takes the Helm as AMA President
In a momentous occasion, Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, an Indian-origin doctor, was sworn in as the 180th president of the American Medical Association (AMA). This milestone marks a significant achievement for the medical community, as Dr. Mukkamala becomes the first physician of Indian heritage to lead the influential organization.
Dr. Mukkamala’s Journey: From Brain Surgery to AMA Presidency
Just recently, Dr. Mukkamala underwent surgery for an 8-cm brain tumor. Reflecting on his journey, he said, "As I lay in recovery from brain surgery at the Mayo Clinic, with tubes and wires monitoring my every movement, this night — this honour — this opportunity to improve health care seemed a very distant dream." His remarkable recovery and determination have inspired many, and his presidency is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the medical profession.
A Call to Action: Reforming the US Healthcare System
Addressing AMA members and guests, Dr. Mukkamala emphasized the urgent need to reform the US healthcare system. "There are tremendous gaps in our health care system that require our attention," he stated. He stressed the importance of fighting for adequate health coverage for patients and working towards a sustainable, equitable healthcare model.
Who is Bobby Mukkamala?
Dr. Mukkamala was born to Indian immigrant doctors and completed his medical degree at the University of Michigan. He went on to complete his residency at Loyola University in Chicago and returned to Flint to practice medicine alongside his wife, Nita Kulkarni, an obstetrician-gynecologist. The couple has two sons, Nikhil, a biomedical engineer, and Deven, a PhD candidate in political science.
A Longstanding Advocate for Healthcare Reform
Dr. Mukkamala has been a dedicated advocate within the AMA, chairing the Substance Use and Pain Care Task Force and working on evidence-based policies to combat the overdose crisis. His service work includes leading the Community Foundation of Greater Flint during the water crisis, with a focus on projects that helped mitigate the impact of lead on children.
A Tribute to His Parents
In his speech, Dr. Mukkamala credited his parents, Apparao and Sumathi, who immigrated to the United States from India in search of better opportunities. "I stand here tonight on the shoulders I quite literally stood on as a kid," he said. "Those of my parents, who settled in this country believing it offered them — and their future children — opportunities that simply were not possible at home."
Highlighting Health Disparities in Underserved Cities
Dr. Mukkamala used his first speech as AMA president to highlight the rising health disparities in underserved cities like Flint. "Life expectancy in Flint is about 12 years shorter than its suburbs," he said, adding that he and his wife have witnessed those disparities firsthand through their work.
A Growing Shortage of Physicians
Dr. Mukkamala also expressed concern about the growing shortage of physicians, which may lead to more doctors leaving private practice due to financial burdens. "Where are our patients supposed to turn?" he asked, recounting how a patient preferred to wait six weeks for his return after surgery rather than seek alternative care.
A Vision for Accessible, Affordable Care
As president, Dr. Mukkamala aims to continue advocating for accessible, affordable care and greater government investment in research and public health. "Our patients deserve better. Our physicians deserve better. Our nation deserves better," he said.
Join the Conversation
Stay updated on the latest news and insights from the medical community. Subscribe to our newsletter and join the community of 2M+ industry professionals.
Join the community of 2M+ industry professionals
Download the ETHealthworld App
Stay ahead of the curve with the latest news, updates, and analysis from the medical community. Download the ETHealthworld App now and get:
- Real-time updates
- Save your favorite articles
- Access to exclusive content
Content originally published by health.economictimes.indiatimes.com
