BAPIOYDF

In 1996, a group of passionate doctors worried about barriers faced by Indian Medical Graduates in realising their potential in the National Health Service, created BAPIO. Intention was to influence changes affecting career, working environment and well being of Ethnic Minority Doctors (EMD). In addition, idea was to provide support and guidance to the new medical graduates arriving from overseas in integrating within the NHS working environment. But, that was long ago! Today, there are estimated 40,000 doctors of Indian origin working in the National Health Service. The intake in UK Medical Schools of Indian origin students is about 20%. Although over the years there has been significant improvement in the way EMDs are treated in the NHS; these doctors continue to face barriers in career progression. There are problems in passing examination, many report bullying and harassment and significantly more (than white British) are reported to the General Medical Council. Unfair treatment and discriminatory practices remains a major disadvantage faced by these doctors. BAPIO, a national voluntary organisation with passion for equality and diversity has a major role to play in unlocking opportunities for EMDs by influencing the national policies and providing support to individual doctors. Hence, BAPIO's vision: Empowering doctors and dentists of Indian heritage to be beacons of leadership and professional excellence. Members will get support in times of difficulty and more importantly will have the opportunity to contribute to the welfare of fellow professionals.