FAQ's

1. What is BAPIO??

British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin is a national voluntary organisation.

2. Why BAPIO? What is it in for me??

In 1996, a group of dedicated doctors felt that it was high time the potential of the doctors were realised and ‘voice’ heard in appropriate places to influence changes that have been affecting their career, working environment and well being. Equally, the new medical graduates arriving from overseas needed a great deal of support and guidance in integrating within the NHS working environment.

 

But, that was nearly fourteen years ago! Today, it is estimated that NHS has over 135,000 doctors, 33,000 consultants and 33,000 GPs. Amongst these approximately 40,000 doctors are of Indian origin. The intake in medical colleges is about 40% of Indian origin. 

 

There has been great improvement over the years in the NHS. However, the challenges faced are still the barriers that the next generation are likely to face. Unfair treatment and discriminatory practices remains as ‘lace curtain’ racial discrimination; a major disadvantage faced by the international graduates.  

 

BAPIO, collective of a like minded people have role to play in unlocking opportunities. Hence, BAPIO’s vision: “Empowering Professional Excellence and Leadership” is to be realised.

In short, an association of Doctors in UK hailing from the Indian Diaspora

 

3. Who runs BAPIO??

The members of BAPIO elect members of its Executive Committee at its annual event. The members of the committee collectively make policy and management decisions.  A team is also elected to ensure day to day running of the organisation. These executives include President, Vice President, Hon Secretary, Treasurer, Joint Secretary and Joint Treasurer. They report progress and present audited account to the members annually.

 

The Committee also appoints individuals as Chairman and Vice Chairman for their special skills, knowledge and potential to contribute to the leadership of the organisation.

4. What does BAPIO do??

The activities of BAPIO are developed around four key pillars.
·         Policy development
·         Education and skills development
·         Advice to members
·         International health care and charity
 
We organise a number of conferences and seminars on current topics.  These events are often over subscribed and there is an opportunity to network with colleagues at all levels in the profession. Workshops and training events are conducted to facilitate skills development. Our Young Doctors Forum has embarked on a ‘Mentoring scheme’.  We have Paediatrics. Academic and Womens’ Fora too.
 
We recognise achievements and award for Professional Excellence and Leadership. A historical judgement of House of Lords vindicated BAPIO when successfully challenged the Government in a Judicial Review for their attempt to introduce unfair and illegal rules that would have adversely affected thousands of doctors. In recent months BAPIO has launched a special scheme to provide access to professional advice and medico-legal representation for its subscribers. It is a unique service provided by doctors and dentists for doctors and dentists. 
 
BAPIO has been actively involved in promoting Global Health at the international stage. We have special affinity with India and thus, BAPIO is a part of formation of Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, GAPIO.

Can I become a Life Member of BAPIO?

Unfortunately, we no longer offer Life Membership of BAPIO.  The alternative to a one-off payment is to take out a Direct Debit for your membership.  Please go to Join BAPIO under the Membership tab and click on the link in the membership form.

GAPIO Annual Conference

Forums