Dr. Bobby Mukkamala has been elected as the 180th President of the American Medical Association (AMA), making him the first person of Indian origin to lead the organisation in its 178-year history. His election was announced on June 11, 2025.
A Deeply Personal Journey
Dr. Mukkamala’s appointment comes shortly after he underwent surgery to remove a large 8-cm tumour from the temporal lobe of his brain. Surgeons successfully removed 90% of the tumour — considered a best-case outcome. Reflecting on his journey, Mukkamala described the election as “humbling,” “moving,” and “awe-inspiring.”
He noted that while recovering at the Mayo Clinic, the possibility of becoming AMA President seemed like a distant dream, further emphasizing the emotional significance of the role.
Lifelong Commitment to Medicine
Born to Indian immigrant physician parents in the United States, Mukkamala was inspired by their dedication to serving the community. He pursued his medical degree at the University of Michigan Medical School and completed his residency at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago.
His wife, Dr. Nita Kulkarni, is an obstetrician-gynecologist. Together, they have supported future healthcare professionals by establishing the Endowed Health Professions Scholarships at the University of Michigan, Flint. The couple has two sons: Nikhil, a biomedical engineer, and Deven, a political science PhD candidate.
Leadership in Public Health
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Mukkamala has held several leadership roles in organized medicine. He chairs the AMA’s Substance Use and Pain Care Task Force and played a vital role in responding to the Flint water crisis. As chair of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, he focused on projects that addressed lead exposure in children.
His clinical practice as an otolaryngologist spans patients of all ages and conditions, from newborns to seniors.
Recognition and Governance
Dr. Mukkamala previously received the AMA Foundation’s “Excellence in Medicine” Leadership Award. He was elected to the AMA Council on Science and Public Health in 2009 and later to the AMA Board of Trustees in 2017 and 2021.
He has also served the Michigan State Medical Society in various leadership capacities, including board chair and president. Additionally, he has been an active member and past president of the Genesee County Medical Society.
Advocating for Equity
His personal experience with cancer has strengthened his resolve to improve the U.S. healthcare system. Throughout his career, he has remained a strong advocate for equitable access to care and for advancing the role of physicians in public health policy.
Dr. Mukkamala’s presidency marks not only a personal milestone but also a significant moment for Indian-American representation in one of the most influential medical organisations in the world.
