NYACP's Physician Spotlight

 In this episode, Neha Puttagunta and Nina Cheranda explore the power of advocacy in medicine, sharing the experiences that sparked their passion, the causes that motivate them, and the initiatives they're advancing to make a lasting impact. 

 Join Dr. Bryant Muniz Safadi as he explores his growing commitment to advocacy, the causes that drive his efforts, and the impactful projects he is actively working on. 

 What drives a busy physician to take on advocacy work? Gurpreet Singh, MD reflects on his inspiration, the issues he’s most passionate about, and how he makes time for it all. 

Pascale Lafortune, MD, is an internal medicine specialist based in Brooklyn, NY. She completed her medical education at Ross University School of Medicine in 2020 and subsequently undertook her internship and residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center from 2020 to 2024. Currently, she is pursuing a fellowship at Northwell Health. Her research includes a publication on Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency in Black populations and another on Protein Phosphatase 2A activators as potential therapeutics for emphysema, with the latter being cited three times. Tune in to gain a firsthand understanding of Pascale's impactful efforts and learn how you can make a difference in causes close to your heart.

What does it take to be a leader in medicine? In this episode, Dr. Susan Lee reflects on her path through NYACP and ACP leadership, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and her advice for physicians looking to grow as leaders.

 Join Dr. Amanda Lee, Dr. Shafkat Salam, and medical student Jonathan Herrera as they reflect on their transformative NYACP advocacy internship experience. They share key lessons learned, including the vital role physicians play in educating lawmakers to shape informed health policy — and the undeniable power of speaking with a united voice. Whether you're new to advocacy or looking to make a greater impact, their insights will inspire you to get involved. 

Dr. Samuel de Ycaza needed an outlet when he was feeling the effects of burnout.  A chance inquiry led him to discover boxing, which quickly became a new passion that fostered self-reflection, humility, and confidence, enabling him to pursue new opportunities in his medical career.   

Three of NYACP's 2025 advocacy interns reflect on what inspired them to get more involved in advocacy, the topics they are passionate about, and their tips for making time as busy physicians.  Dr. Brent Arcayan, Dr. Fahema Nadira, and Dr. Shruti Varadarajan share experience with NYACP as physician advocates!

 In this episode, NYACP Executive Director Loretta Ponesse and Jacob Agwu, NYACP Health Disparities Fellow from the UAlbany Center for the Elimination of Minority Health Disparities, share their insights on the power of advocacy. They discuss how NYACP supports physicians and patients, opportunities for members to get involved, and the chapter’s legacy of driving meaningful change. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on the impact of advocacy and how to get involved!

Join us for a conversation with two exceptional women in medicine who have flourished through their involvement with ACP and the NY Chapter.  Beyond building their CVs and networking at events,  they've uncovered career-advancing opportunities and built lasting connections by making ACP their professional home. Discover how ACP can empower your journey, too!