MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT  

Dear IMANE Community,

I am deeply honored and grateful to have been elected as the President of the Indian Medical Association of New England (IMANE) for 2025. It is both a privilege and a responsibility to serve our medical community here in New England.

As a practitioner of Primary Care Internal Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine in the Boston area, I focus on an evidence-based approach that leverages the pillars of a healthy lifestyle to prevent, treat, and even reverse major chronic diseases affecting many today. My passion lies in promoting a healthy lifestyle and utilizing food as medicine, and I am dedicated to championing these principles in alignment with our organization's goals and mission.

Empowering IMANE members and the wider community to make informed, healthy lifestyle choices is a key objective. This can be achieved through collaboration and active participation of our members in engaging with other organizations and local volunteer groups to organize health-related and community programs.

I am eager to see us expand our membership by welcoming new members who can bring fresh talent, perspectives, and vision to our organization. Additionally, I encourage our existing members to actively participate in our various events, such as cultural events, CME sessions, the Gala, and collaborative events hosted by other local organizations.

I look forward to learning from past presidents and working alongside our dedicated and capable Executive Committee to ensure a seamless transition, despite the current political climate. Staying positive, engaged, and connected is essential for building a stronger healthcare professional community. I hope we can embrace our diverse culture and viewpoints with respect and enthusiasm.

Often, we find ourselves focused on patient care with little time to pursue other goals and interests. Our organization can play a crucial role in creating an environment that supports these pursuits.

I wish to conclude with a message of hope, cheer, and success for our organization.

Warm regards,

Shikha S. Merchia, MD - President, IMANE 2025