Indian-origin Srinivas Mukkamala has created history in America. Srinivas has become the President of the American Medical Association (AMA), becoming the first such doctor of Indian origin in the 178-year history of the organization. Mukkamala’s appointment comes just months after he underwent surgery to remove an 8cm brain tumour.
“As I lay at the Mayo Clinic recovering from brain surgery, with tubes and stars monitoring my every move, this night, this honor, and this opportunity to reform health care seemed a very distant dream,” he said.
Mukkamala emphasized the need for US healthcare reform, saying, There are huge gaps in our healthcare system that need our attention. So it’s important to continue fighting for adequate health coverage for our patients and a sustainable, equitable healthcare model.
Mukkamala has long served on the AMA board, leading a Pain Care Task Force and developing evidence-based policies to address the overdose crisis. Mukkamala credits his success to his parents, Indian immigrant doctors, and his hometown of Flint. He thanked his parents, Apparao and Sumathi, saying, “I wouldn’t be here today without their support since childhood.”