The conference brought together physicians of Indian origin on a unique platform, where they shared their experiences, network and learnt from each other
The Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO), a non-profit organisation recently organised its 9th Mid-Year Conference in collaboration with the American University of Antigua (AUA) and Antigua Medical Association (AMA) in Antigua. The conference brought together physicians of Indian origin on a unique platform, where they shared their experiences, network and learnt from each other
V Mahalingam, High Commissioner to Antigua Guyana was the Chief Guest at the inauguration ceremony. Mahalingam complimented the physicians of Indian origin for their contribution in enhancing the level of healthcare in several countries.
Sir Vivian Richards was the Chief Guest at the evening gala. Welcoming all the delegates to the land of the sun and sea, Antigua, Richards highlighted the importance of discipline, exercise and right diet to promote good health.
Neal Simon, the President of American University of Antigua (AUA), Dr Ramesh Mehta, President, GAPIO, Dr Anupam Sibal, Vice President, GAPIO, Dr Sudhir Parikh, Joint Secretary, GAPIO and Dr Sanku Rao, Past President of GAPIO, Vernon Solomon, Vice President, AUA, Dr Par Prem Kumar, Associate Director AUA for Special Projects and Dr Alafea Stevens Secretary and Treasurer of the Medical Association of Antigua and Barbuda were present.
Dr Prathap C Reddy, Founder, President, GAPIO said, “Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are a global pandemic, claiming 63 per cent of all deaths. Globally, the NCD burden is set to increase significantly in the next ten years. GAPIO is focusing on prevention and early detection of NCDs and will enhance efforts to control NCDs”.
Dr Ramesh Mehta, President, GAPIO added, “the scientific sessions on recent developments and advances in cardiology, metabolic syndrome like obesity and diabetes were highly appreciated by the delegates”.
Dr Anupam Sibal, Vice President, GAPIO and Group Medical Director and Senior Pediatric Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Apollo Hospitals Group said “GAPIO is the platform that brings together physicians of Indian origin from different countries. Indian doctors are recognised globally for their contribution to medicine. The high calibre of the presentations was reflective of this expertise”.
Dr Nandakumar Jairam, Secretary General, GAPIO and Chairman, CEO and GMD, Columbia Asia Hospitals, India said, “GAPIO has organised 16 soft skills enhancement training workshops under Leadership Development Programmes across India. Clinical Knowledge development programme will be launched on July 1, 2019 at New Delhi”.
Dr Sudhir Parikh, Joint Secretary, GAPIO and Chairman, Parikh World Wide Media, and ITV Gold highlighted “GAPIO now has representation from 34 countries. In the coming year, plans will be created to expand the presence of GAPIO. Social media will be used effectively to break geographical barriers. A resource centre is being created.”