In a historic moment for Indian Americans in medicine, Dr. Srinivas “Bobby” Mukkamala has been elected President of the American Medical Association (AMA)—becoming the first person of Indian descent to lead the prestigious organization in its 178-year history.
The announcement was made at the AMA’s annual meeting in Chicago, where the 53-year-old otolaryngologist was officially sworn in as the 180th President of the organization. Visibly emotional, Dr. Mukkamala called the moment “awe-inspiring” and “deeply humbling.”
Yet the journey to this milestone wasn’t without personal trials. Just last November, Mukkamala received a life-altering diagnosis—an 8-centimeter tumor in his brain’s temporal lobe, discovered during a routine MRI. Three weeks later, he underwent surgery to remove 90% of the mass in what doctors called a best-case outcome.
For Mukkamala, the experience transformed his understanding of the American healthcare system. While he acknowledged his access to top-tier care, he stressed that millions of Americans do not enjoy the same ease—often facing confusion, cost barriers, and long delays in accessing even basic medical services.
“The contrast between my care and what many patients face is stark,” he remarked. “That’s why I believe now, more than ever, the healthcare system needs strong, unified leadership—and the AMA is positioned to provide that.”
Throughout his career, Mukkamala has been known as a staunch advocate for patients and physician-led reforms. His presidency is expected to spotlight health equity, access, and affordability, using both his personal experience and professional insight to push for change.
The AMA’s recent House of Delegates meeting (June 6–11) also saw the adoption of a new policy focused on nutrition education. Aimed at tackling the public health impact of ultra processed foods, the policy encourages all levels of medical education to integrate dietary training—so physicians can better guide patients in making informed choices.
The AMA emphasized that clear communication about the difference between minimally processed and ultra processed foods is vital, especially as the US faces rising rates of chronic diet-related illnesses.
With Dr. Mukkamala at the helm, the AMA is now poised to blend personal testimony with institutional influence—marking a new era of leadership grounded in empathy, advocacy, and action.
