First Indian Heritage Physician to Lead AMA
Indian-origin physician Bobby Mukkamala has been sworn in as the 180th president of the American Medical Association, making history as the first physician of Indian heritage to lead the prestigious organization. Mukkamala, an otolaryngologist specializing in ear, nose, and throat, took the oath on Tuesday, as announced by the association.
Mukkamala has been actively involved in the AMA since his residency and currently serves as the chair of the organization's Substance Use and Pain Care Task Force. Despite being diagnosed with an 8-cm brain tumor last November, he persevered and took on this significant leadership role.
"A few months ago, I didn't know if this night would even be possible," Mukkamala expressed in a statement. His dedication to serving his community was evident during the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, where his parents settled after immigrating from India in the 1970s.
The son of immigrant physicians, Mukkamala's commitment to medicine and community service is unwavering. He has also made significant contributions as the chair of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, focusing on projects to help children affected by lead exposure.
Having received the AMA Foundation's "Excellence in Medicine" Leadership Award and serving on various AMA councils and boards, Mukkamala's expertise and passion for healthcare advocacy are evident. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan Medical School and completed his residency at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago.
