More than 500 delegates from around the world are attending the 12th AAPI Global Healthcare Summit.
Indian President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated the 12th Global Healthcare Summit hosted by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) in Mumbai on December 28.
More than 500 delegates from around the world are attending the event, which was addressed by, among others, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and state Gov. Chennamaneni Vidyasagar Rao, AAPI said in a press release.
Describing the organization “more than just a platform of doctors and medical practitioners,” Kovind said AAPI “is a link between two vibrant and democratic societies, both of which have addressed major public health challenges in their own way.”
“The professional-ism and goodwill of Indian doctors in America has won them – won you, I should say – a well-deserved reputation,” he told AAPI members, adding, “In fact, it has occasionally led to diplomatic gains for India for which your Association must be appreciated.”
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Kovind said that “Disease does not discriminate,” and, therefore, “the practice of medicine and health-care must not discriminate either.”
He pointed out that “India’s experience with producing affordable but high quality drugs and medicines offers a huge advantage as the world – and America itself – seeks to drive down the cost of health-care and health insurance. Our countries can also work hand-in-hand in seeking answers to global pandemics and emerging zoonotic diseases.”
Fadnavis, in his address, praised contributions of Indian American physicians and called on the delegates to work toward making healthcare more affordable. He promised full support of his government to AAPI initiatives in the state.
READ: AAPI to launch initiative for affordable healthcare in India (August 1, 2013)
Welcoming the delegates, AAPI President Dr. Naresh Parikh said previous editions of the summit “have helped develop strategic alliances with various organizations and the Government of India” and AAPI members “are very passionate about serving” India.