Akinchita Kumar

Akinchita as a medical student

Pronouns: She/Her

Akinchita as a child

• What kind of identities do you inhabit?

  I am a South Asian-Indian Punjabi woman who identifies as Hindu. My cultural background and religious beliefs contribute to my perspective and lived experiences.

• The path to medicine is not easy. Can you tell us why you decided to pursue it?

  My decision to embark on this path was shaped by a multitude of factors, with one pivotal element being my upbringing in the heart of Central California. This region, characterized by its underprivileged status, has long been in dire need of accessible healthcare services. As I navigated my formative years, I observed a noticeable absence of healthcare professionals who shared the same background as mine. This void served as a reminder of the disparities that existed, both in representation and communication, within my community.

  Witnessing the struggles faced by many in my community, compounded by the language barriers that hindered effective healthcare interactions, ignited a resolute passion within me. I realized that I possessed a unique opportunity to bridge these gaps and be a catalyst for positive change. By pursuing a career in medicine, I am driven by an unwavering commitment to serve as a beacon of hope and support for those who have been underserved for far too long.

  My aspiration to become a physician extends beyond the realm of medical expertise; it encompasses a heartfelt mission to foster inclusivity and a more equitable healthcare landscape. Through my journey, I am dedicated to not only acquiring the requisite medical knowledge and skills but also embodying the diverse representation that our communities deserve. I aspire to break down barriers and ensure that every member of my community can receive the care they deserve.

• Can you describe a challenging moment in medicine that made you rethink your career path?

  One of the most pivotal and challenging moments in my journey through medicine was when I encountered a situation that made me acutely aware of my underrepresented minority status. While working in a clinical setting, I found myself in a room surrounded by colleagues who did not share my cultural background and a patient who seemed visibly uncomfortable upon seeing me. It was a moment that laid bare the stark reality of the disparities in representation within the medical field.

  At that moment, I felt a wave of doubt and uncertainty about my ability to connect with patients and provide effective care. It was a reminder of the barriers that URM individuals often face, both in accessing healthcare and in pursuing careers in medicine. I questioned whether I truly belonged in this field and whether my efforts to bridge gaps in representation and communication were making any meaningful impact.

  I sought support from mentors and colleagues who had navigated similar experiences. Their guidance and reassurance helped me realize that my unique perspective as a URM individual was an asset, not a hindrance. I began to actively seek out opportunities to engage with communities similar to mine, advocating for culturally sensitive care and forging connections that transcended language and background.

  This challenging moment became a turning point in my career. It reaffirmed my commitment to advancing equity and representation within medicine, particularly for underrepresented communities. By embracing my identity and using it as a source of strength, I have become an advocate for change, dedicated to breaking down barriers, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring that every patient receives compassionate and culturally competent care.

• How do you see a career in PM&R as advancing equity? Or alternatively - why are you interested in this organization? Why equity and PM&R?

  A career in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) holds a profound potential to advance equity on multiple fronts, which is why I am deeply drawn to this field. The principles of PM&R align seamlessly with the pursuit of equity, and my interest in this organization stems from the shared commitment to fostering inclusivity and fairness in healthcare. Equity is the cornerstone of PM&R, as it emphasizes tailoring treatment plans to each individual's unique needs, rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach. This personalized approach inherently addresses disparities that may arise from various factors, such as socioeconomic status, cultural background, or physical abilities. By focusing on the holistic well-being of patients and considering their specific circumstances, PM&R practitioners inherently contribute to reducing healthcare disparities and promoting equitable access to care.

  PM&R professionals often serve as advocates for patients with disabilities, helping them regain independence, functionality, and a higher quality of life. This advocacy aligns perfectly with the pursuit of equity, as it empowers individuals who may have historically faced barriers to full participation in society. By restoring their ability to engage in daily activities and enjoy a meaningful life, PM&R contributes to breaking down societal inequities and promoting social inclusion.

  My interest in PM&R and equity is driven by a deep-seated belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive and access high-quality healthcare, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through a career in PM&R, I aspire to be a catalyst for change, working alongside like-minded professionals to create a more just and equitable healthcare landscape. By embracing the principles of personalized care, advocacy, and patient empowerment, I am dedicated to advancing equity and making a lasting impact in the lives of those who have been marginalized or underserved. This organization resonates with my aspirations, providing a platform to collaborate, learn, and collectively drive positive change in the realm of PM&R and beyond.

• Can you tell us a little bit of your aspirations - either for your career or for the field of medicine (if you’re a medical student?)

  My aspirations are deeply intertwined with my passion for medicine and my commitment to the field of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R). In my career journey, I am dedicated to not only providing exceptional patient care but also contributing to the advancement of PM&R as a whole.

  One of my primary aspirations is to establish a holistic and patient-centered approach to rehabilitation. I firmly believe that each patient's journey to recovery is unique, and I am committed to tailoring treatment plans that address not only the physical aspects of their condition but also the psychological, emotional, and social dimensions. By adopting a comprehensive approach, I aim to enhance the quality of life and functional outcomes for individuals facing diverse challenges, from musculoskeletal injuries to neurological disorders.

  Moreover, I am deeply interested in research and innovation within the field. As I progress in my career, I aspire to contribute to cutting-edge research that explores novel techniques, technologies, and interventions to optimize rehabilitation outcomes. Additionally, I am driven to foster collaboration and interdisciplinary communication among healthcare professionals. By working closely with colleagues from various disciplines, I aim to create a seamless continuum of care that maximizes the potential for recovery and empowers patients to regain independence and functionality.

• Find me on social media

  Twitter: @AkinchitaKumar

  Instagram: @akinchita

Last updated 8/2023