The Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO), a non-profit organization, founded by Padma Vibhushan, Dr. Prathap C Reddy, Founder and Chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, Dr. Sanku Rao, Past President of AAPI and Dr. Ramesh Mehta, President of BAPIO organized its 9th Mid-Year Conference in collaboration with the American University of Antigua (AUA) and Antigua Medical Association (AMA) in Antigua.

His Excellency Mr V Mahalingam, High Commissioner to Antigua Guyana was the Chief Guest at the inauguration ceremony. The High Commissioner 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, Sir Vivian Richards highlighted the importance of discipline, exercise and right diet to promote good health.

Mr. 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 of GAPIO and Dr. Sanku Rao, Past President of GAPIO, Mr. 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% 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 of 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 of 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 recognized 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 & GMD, Columbia Asia hospitals, India Pvt Ltd, said, “GAPIO has organized 16 soft skills enhancement training workshops under Leadership Development Programs across India. Clinical Knowledge development program will be launched on 1st July 2019 at New Delhi".

Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Joint Secretary of 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.”