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Dr. Ehtsham Haq, MD, is a distinguished physician, academic leader, and dedicated community servant whose career reflects an enduring commitment to professional excellence, physician advocacy, and service to humanity. As a Clinical Professor at the UAB School of Medicine, Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, former Chief of Mental Health at BVA Healthcare System, and former Director of Telehealth Services, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in clinical care, medical education, and healthcare administration. His extensive service to APPNA includes leadership roles in National Health Care Day, CME programs, international meetings, strategy initiatives, advocacy, CABL, and Council service as Alabama Chapter President. As Founder of the APPNA Alabama Chapter and Founder, Chair, Medical Director, and Clinician of the Red Crescent Clinic of Alabama, Dr. Haq has worked tirelessly to strengthen physician engagement and expand care for underserved communities. His record of service, leadership training, mentorship, and institutional involvement reflects a trusted, experienced, and service-oriented leader committed to advancing APPNA and empowering physicians to make a meaningful difference in the communities they serve.
President Elect
Aniqa Baqauddin, MD
As Appna Alabama Chapter President-Elect , I am honoured to serve and look forward to working alongside our team to strengthen our mission of service, collaboration, and community impact.
Together through our APPNA chapter initiatives and outreach efforts, we will continue to expand access to care, support medical education, and uplift underserved communities. I am committed to leading with integrity, inclusiveness, and dedication as we move forward together.
I value connection, balance, and purpose in both my personal and professional life. Whether I’m caring for patients, spending time with my family, or serving in the community, I bring energy, empathy, and dedication to everything I do.
I look forward to serving with dedication and working together to make a meaningful and lasting impact in our community.
Past President
Saema Mirza, MD
Dr. Saema Mirza is a dedicated cardiologist with a strong commitment to patient care, medical education, and community service. She has been involved with APPNA AL chapter since its inception officially and unofficially and has served as president of APPNA AL chapter for 4 years. She has volunteered at the Red Crescent free clinic as a cardiologist and has volunteered at the annual health fair every year. She is passionate about advancing healthcare initiatives, supporting physician collaboration, and contributing to the mission of APPNA through professional excellence and service to the community. Her interests include mentorship, global health, and fostering connections among healthcare professionals of Pakistani heritage.
Secretary
Shazia Shakil, MD
As a physician serving the Birmingham community, I have always believed in compassionate service, community outreach, and supporting underserved populations. I have proudly volunteered with Doc on the Spot free clinics in underserved areas of Alabama and previously participated in national disaster relief efforts in Pakistan during the devastating floods that affected the northern regions of the country.
Through these experiences, I have witnessed the importance of unity, leadership, and service-driven organizations like APPNA. I look forward to continuing to support and strengthen our mission of physician collaboration, humanitarian outreach, medical education, and community impact.
I currently work as a physician in Birmingham, Alabama, and remain committed to serving with integrity, compassion, and dedication both locally and internationally. Together, we can continue building a stronger and more impactful future for APPNA and the communities we serve.
Treasurer
Noureen Abbas , MD
As the APPNA Alabama Chapter Treasurer since 2024, I am deeply privileged to support our leadership team in strengthening our shared mission of medical education, collaboration, and profound community impact. Guided by a passion for professional excellence and inclusive leadership, I am committed to advancing our chapter's outreach initiatives, from expanding healthcare access in underserved areas to volunteering my time at annual health fairs and free clinics. By balancing a demanding medical career with a vibrant family life, I strive to channel energy, empathy, and integrity into everything I do, ensuring we foster lasting connections among Pakistani-heritage healthcare professionals while meaningfully uplifting those we serve.
