The Association of Pakistani Physicians of North America (APPNA) inaugurated its annual three-day spring summit today in Oklahoma City, drawing hundreds of medical professionals to celebrate achievements and discuss healthcare initiatives.
The event’s opening day featured a special honor for APNA leadership, as state lawmakers invited the delegation to the Oklahoma Legislature for a ceremonial recognition. During a joint gathering of the House and Senate, lawmakers awarded certificates of appreciation to APNA representatives, applauding their contributions to healthcare in the U.S.
Led by APPNA’s incoming 2025 president, Dr. Humaira Qamar, the delegation included Dr. Hassan Karim, Dr. Sanaullah, Dr. Kaleem, Dr. Afzal, Akbar Kursi, former president Dr. Haroon Durrani, Dr. Fazal Ali, and Host Committee Chair Dr. Muhammad Sanaullah. State Representatives Brian Hill and Neil Hayes commended Pakistani-American doctors for their dedication, emphasizing their integral role in advancing medical care nationwide.
Addressing the legislature, Dr. Qamar highlighted APPNA’s expansive network, which includes 54 U.S. chapters and four in Canada, focused on improving community health outcomes. She also celebrated a milestone: over 1,000 Pakistani medical graduates secured residency placements in U.S. hospitals this year, reflecting the strength of Pakistan’s medical education system.
Dr. Kaleem, an APPNA representative, noted that Oklahoma alone benefits from the expertise of more than 200 Pakistani physicians, with nearly 1,000 attendees anticipated at the summit. The convention will feature panels on healthcare innovation, cultural exchange, and professional development, reinforcing APNA’s mission to bridge medical excellence and community service.
Lawmakers and attendees alike praised the event as a testament to the enduring impact of Pakistani-American doctors in enriching the nation’s healthcare landscape.
