Washington, June 12(HS): For the first time in the 178-year history of the American Medical Association (AMA), an individual of Indian origin has taken the helm of the organization. Dr. Srinivas Mukkamalla has been elected as the President of the American Medical Association. He is affectionately called Bobby Mukkamalla. He is an MD and an excellent otolaryngologist.

According to the American Medical Association's website, Srinivas Mukkamalla assumed office as the 180th president in a ceremonial event at the Hyatt Regency Chicago on the night of June 10. He stated that this is an emotional moment for him. He cannot express it. It's simply a heartwarming and awe-inspiring occasion.Last November, the 53-year-old Dr. Bobby Mukkamalla was diagnosed with an 8-cm temporal lobe tumor on the left side of his brain. Surgery took place three weeks later, during which 90 percent of the tumor was removed. It helped to avoid radiation and chemotherapy. His doctors indicated that he could live for 20 more years. Dr. Bobby is a father of two children.He recalled the moments of his surgery on this occasion.

The Indian-origin Dr. Mukkamalla said, I am here tonight because of the talents of skilled physicians. It includes the enduring love and patience of my family and friends. There may still be flaws in our healthcare system. Despite that, there are many virtues in it. That is why I stand alive before you. For people like me, American medicine is still the best in the world.

Dr. Mukkamalla resides with his family in Flint, Michigan. He has treated poor people for free for several decades. He noted that Flint symbolizes the most pressing issues in American medicine. His wife, Neeta Kulkarni, is an obstetrician-gynecologist. Dr. Mukkamalla mentioned that life expectancy in Flint is about 12 years less compared to the surrounding suburbs. He sees patients in Flint who wait for months to see a specialist.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar