On the evening of May 22, the Chinese American Independent Physicians Association (CAIPA) held its 2024 “Asian Pacific Heritage Month” celebration in midtown Manhattan, New York. The event brought together members of the association and key figures in the healthcare industry to commend outstanding medical institutions and doctors for their contributions to the Asian community.
The celebration began at 6 p.m., where elite Asian healthcare professionals in New York gathered to engage in lively discussions and camaraderie.
Dr. Fu Chuanxiao, a board member of CAIPA, shared with the media the original intention behind establishing the association, emphasizing the importance of creating a network among Chinese doctors in New York’s Chinatown to make it easier for patients to find healthcare providers.
Currently, CAIPA boasts a membership of 1,300 professionals, serving over 500,000 patients in the New York area. They have established significant connections with various political, social, and hospital groups in the region.
Dr. Jimmy Liu, President and CEO of CAIPA, highlighted the importance of Asian Pacific Heritage Month in acknowledging the contributions of Asians in the U.S., underscoring the need to recognize and support the efforts of Asian healthcare professionals.
Acknowledging the efforts of healthcare providers and organizations in serving the Asian community, CAIPA Executive Director Hui Shen expressed gratitude to the production team of New Tang Dynasty TV and the core members of CAIPA for making the evening a success.
Asian culture plays a vital role in America’s diverse tapestry, with CAIPA tirelessly promoting community service and building a healthcare system tailored to the Asian population. The organization expressed deep appreciation for the dedication of doctors and medical institutions to the well-being of Asian Americans.
The awarded doctors, reflecting the modest and humble nature typical of Chinese culture, expressed gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon them despite downplaying their individual achievements.
Dr. Chuan Zhao, a dentist receiving a lifetime achievement award, humbly stated that he had simply been “working daily” to serve the community in Chinatown, expressing honor and gratitude for the recognition received.
Family physician Dr. Xiaoyan Song, pediatrician Dr. Wenjing Tao, and obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Zhaowen Hu were recognized with the Annual Best Doctor Award, while Flushing Medical Center received the Best Community Service Award.
Bruce Flanz, CEO of Flushing Medical Center, highlighted their fruitful collaboration with CAIPA over the years, emphasizing their commitment to serving the Asian community through multilingual nursing staff and dedicated services.
Pat Wang, CEO of First Healthcare, underscored the significance of celebrating Asian Pacific Heritage Month, emphasizing the contributions of diverse cultures and communities to enriching American society.
The evening featured traditional Asian performances, including a musical ensemble, sign language performance by Tzu Chi Foundation volunteers, exhilarating Japanese drumming that heightened the festive atmosphere, and a graceful Mongolian dance performance by students from the University at Albany’s Midtown campus, culminating the celebratory event on a high note.