Membership Spotlight | April 2023

1. Briefly tell us about yourself, specifically your path to Family Medicine and your interest in public health.
   
   1. I obtained my my undergraduate degree (MBBS) from C.U. Shah Medical College in India, where I was exposed to a diverse range of topics and facets within the field of Medical Science. My education provided me with a strong foundation of basic medical concepts and principles. It equipped me with extensive knowledge of public health, health administration, and various health-related issues faced in India. Through my involvement in the "door-to-door pulse polio vaccine administration" program, I was able to work with and network with various NGOs, which gave me insights into the public health challenges in rural areas of India. Working with primary health care, community health centers, urban and rural health training centers, and NGOs provided immense satisfaction. It reaffirmed my desire to engage in philanthropic work contributing to public health.
   2. Subsequently, during my Master's program in Public Health at George Washington University, I gained expertise in research methods and the fundamental principles of epidemiology. My keen research interest led me to work as a research associate in the Department of Epidemiology at GWU. I have since been involved in various research projects funded by the NIH. My research has focused primarily on infectious diseases, vaccinology, and cancer.
   3. Family Physicians play a crucial role in preventive care, health education, and disease management and can significantly impact the overall health outcomes of their patients. They can help their patients by screening for diseases, such as cancer, and by providing them with information on how to stay healthy. Family physicians also have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of their patients by providing care for patients at all stages of life. They can help patients with their acute illnesses, as well as their chronic diseases. This diversity of medical cases keeps the work exciting and challenging, allowing physicians to continually learn and grow in their practice.
   4. I plan to utilize the skills and knowledge I have acquired through my education and research experience to work towards a healthier human race and contribute to the betterment of humankind on a global scale.
      
2. As a family physician, what does public health mean to you?
   1. In addition to providing quality medical care, family physicians must also promote health through preventive measures, by collaborating with local public health agencies, community organizations, and other healthcare providers to ensure patients have access to these services and resources.
   2. To truly address public health concerns, family physicians must also be advocates for policy changes that support healthy communities. This may involve advocating for changes in healthcare policies, supporting community-based programs that address social determinants of health, and working with local and state government officials to promote health equity.
   3. Overall, Family Physicians play a critical role in promoting public health by addressing the health needs of the entire population, recognizing and addressing social determinants of health, promoting preventive measures, and advocating for policy changes that support healthy communities.
3. Why is public health important in family medicine?
   1. As a family physician, public health means taking a population health approach to understanding and addressing the health needs of the entire community, not just individual patients. It involves recognizing and addressing health disparities and social determinants of health that can impact health outcomes, such as access to healthy food, safe housing, and education.
      
4. What role can Family Physicians in Maryland play in their communities with respect to public health?
   1. Family Physicians can play a vital role in promoting public health in their communities by providing primary care, health education, advocacy, outreach, and emergency preparedness.
   2. Family Physicians are often the first point of contact for patients seeking medical care. They can provide preventive care, screen for chronic diseases, and manage patients' overall health. By doing so, they can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases and promote healthy behaviors.
      
5. In addition to your leadership role in MDAFP’s Public Health Workgroup, tell us about the work.you’ve been doing outside the Academy and how that’s played an impact on your work.
   1. In addition to my leadership role in MDAFP’s Public Health Workgroup, I have been heavily involved in various leadership roles, peer-reviewing for organizations such as Sigma Xi and presenting my research in a variety of professional and academic settings. Additionally, I have also authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed articles and case reports.
   2. My involvement in peer-reviewing research and serving as a judge for various presentations and proposals has helped me develop a critical eye for scientific literature. This skill can be invaluable when it comes to conducting your own research and analyzing data.
   3. My experience presenting research at conferences and publishing peer-reviewed articles has helped me develop strong communication skills. These skills can be fundamental when conveying complex scientific concepts to a non-expert audience, such as patients or policymakers.
   4. Overall, my involvement in extracurricular activities has helped me develop a broad range of skills that are valuable for my work as a physician and researcher. These experiences have helped me become a better collaborator, critical thinker, and communicator.
6. What gives you the greatest satisfaction in the work you do?
   1. My work is fueled by a deep passion for advancing healthcare knowledge and improving outcomes. In addition, I find great satisfaction in knowing that I am making a meaningful impact on the lives of my patients, colleagues, and the wider community. Specifically, I am dedicated to addressing healthcare inequities and promoting social justice, which adds a sense of purpose to everything I do. But ultimately, the opportunity to positively influence the lives of others is what drives and inspires me the most, and this sense of fulfillment gives me the greatest satisfaction in my work.
      
7. How can other Family Physicians make an impact in similar work?
   1. Family Physicians can make an impact in similar work by committing to advancing healthcare knowledge, advocating for healthcare equity and social justice, and being active members of their communities. They can seek opportunities to collaborate with other healthcare professionals and community organizations to improve healthcare outcomes for their patients and the broader population. By prioritizing patient-centered care and staying up-to-date on the latest research and best practices, Family Physicians can make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of their patients and communities. It's vital for Family Physicians to stay engaged and proactive in their work and to seek opportunities for growth and improvement continuously.
      
8. Anything else you’d like to add?
   1. In addition to the importance of making a positive impact in healthcare, it's also essential for physicians to prioritize self-care and maintain a work-life balance. Burnout is a prevalent issue in the medical field, and taking care of one's well-being can lead to better patient care and job satisfaction.
   2. It's also crucial to stay current with the latest research and advancements to continue learning and improving as a physician.
      

Nominations Now Open!

MDAFP would like to highlight members in our communications who have demonstrated notable direction in the areas of Leadership, Advocacy and Wellbeing for Family Medicine in Maryland - and we need your help!

We invite you to nominate MDAFP Family Medicine colleagues and mentors who you believe model exceptional leadership in primary care, in their practice communities and workplace. Nomination(s) should be submitted using the button below.