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Atique Mirza, MD
1997 - 2000
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Atique Mirza, MD
1997 - 2000
The Journey of Dr. Atique Azam Mirza: A Life of Service, Advocacy, and Excellence in Medicinev
From the bustling streets of Lahore, Pakistan, to the heart of Connecticut, Dr. Atique Azam Mirza’s journey has been one of dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to medicine, education, and community service. His remarkable career in cardiology has been shaped by his belief that true success lies not just in individual accomplishments, but in making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Today, as a renowned cardiologist, educator, and advocate, Dr. Mirza continues to inspire countless individuals and transform healthcare in his community and beyond.
The Early Years: A Passion for Medicine
Dr. Mirza’s story began in Lahore, Pakistan, where he started his high school at Government Comprehensive Higher Secondary School Ghorey Shah Road, followed by Government College Lahore for his pre-medical education. He earned his medical degree from the prestigious Allama Iqbal Medical College. From a young age, he was fascinated by the intricacies of the human body and driven by the desire to help others. His passion for medicine was fueled by the profound impact that physicians can have on people’s lives, and he set his sights on blending scientific expertise with compassionate care.
Dr. Mirza’s journey to the United States began in New York where he joined the preparatory institution, Kaplan Center, to pass his United States Licensing Examinations. He then moved to Chicago, where he pursued his residency in Internal Medicine at Rush Presbyterian Westlake Hospital. It was here that he honed his clinical skills and was exposed to the vast opportunities in healthcare in the U.S. During these formative years, Dr. Mirza realized his ability to connect with patients and physicians alike, further fueling his desire to build a career combining clinical excellence with community involvement.
Building a Legacy in Cardiovascular Medicine
After completing his residency, Dr. Mirza began his medical practice in Pennington Gap, Virginia, a physician-underserved area, where he remained for five years. He then embarked on specialized training in cardiology, an area of medicine that would define much of his career. Dr. Mirza completed advanced training in non-invasive cardiovascular medicine and international clinical trials at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School. He completed his clinical Cardiovascular Fellowship training at the University of Connecticut that further solidified his expertise in the field of cardiology. The rigorous fellowship allowed Dr. Mirza to deepen his knowledge and refine his skills, preparing him to become one of the leading cardiologists in the region.
In 2003, Dr. Mirza joined Central Connecticut Cardiologists, LLC, where he became a key player in providing cutting-edge cardiovascular care to his community. In 2018, he assumed the role of Managing Partner, overseeing the organization’s growth and success. His practice quickly became a trusted hub for patients seeking the best in heart health, with Dr. Mirza’s approach rooted in the belief that each patient deserves the same care and compassion he would offer to a family member.
Under his leadership, Central Connecticut Cardiologists grew into a center of excellence, where state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, personalized care, and innovative treatments helped patients lead healthier lives. From advanced imaging to preventive heart care, Dr. Mirza ensured that his patients remained at the forefront of medical advancements.
World-Class Training and Recognized Expertise
Dr. Atique Mirza's journey to becoming a renowned cardiologist was shaped by rigorous training at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, where he refined his medical expertise and honed his clinical skills.
Through this world-class training, Dr. Mirza became a distinguished fellow of several prestigious organizations, marking him as a leader in his field. These include:
- American College of Cardiology (FACC): Recognizing his excellence in the cardiovascular field.
- American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (FASNC): A testament to his expertise in advanced imaging and non-invasive heart care.
- American College of Physicians (FACP): A recognition of his comprehensive knowledge of internal medicine and its integration into cardiovascular practice.
- College of Physicians & Surgeons of Pakistan (FCPS Hon.): Honoring his longstanding contributions to medical practice on an international scale and as an acknowledgement of his humanitarian and educational contributions to healthcare in Pakistan to improve knowledge and clinical skills of physicians in Pakistan, furthering the standard of medical education and healthcare. Dr. Mirza helped to revised curriculum and examination process. He also connected that institution with international resources to help develop electrophysiology training program for cardiologists in Pakistan. College of Physicians & Surgeons of Pakistan is the highest accreditation body for physicians' post-graduation in Pakistan.
Through these fellowships and his distinguished training, Dr. Mirza not only solidified his clinical expertise but also earned the respect of his peers and colleagues, becoming a trusted leader in the world of cardiology.
A Commitment to Mentorship: Shaping the Future of Medicine
Dr. Mirza’s vision extends beyond his own practice. He believes strongly in the power of education and mentorship. As an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine and Assistant Professor at the Frank H. Netter M.D. School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, he dedicates much of his time to training the next generation of doctors.
Throughout his career, Dr. Mirza has mentored a plethora of international medical graduates (IMGs), helping them secure residency positions in the United States. His mentorship extended beyond clinical skills; he instilled in his mentees the importance of empathy, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning. Many of his former students credit him with shaping their careers and inspiring them to pursue leadership roles in medicine.
Organizational leadership skills
Dr. Atique Mirza's commitment to community leadership and advocacy extends far beyond his clinical and academic accomplishments. A true pioneer in medical service and advocacy, he has dedicated himself to supporting both healthcare professionals and underserved communities. His leadership roles include serving as the Founding President of the Allama Iqbal Medical College Alumni Association of North America, where he has strengthened the global network of alumni.
As the Founding President of the Connecticut Chapter of the Association of Physicians of Pakistan Descent in North America, Dr. Mirza fostered a strong sense of community among physicians of Pakistani descent in the region, advocating for their professional growth and success.
He also served as the President of the Association of Pakistani Cardiologists of North America (APCNA), where his contributions were pivotal in shaping the future of cardiovascular medicine in the North American healthcare landscape.
In addition to his leadership roles, Dr. Mirza has served at various leadership positions and received numerous accolades and recognitions from the Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America (APPNA) for his unwavering dedication to the advancement of medical practice and his tireless work in physician advocacy. His impactful contributions have earned him the admiration of colleagues and recognition from various medical and community organizations. Dr. Mirza’s efforts in advocating for physicians and patient care continue to inspire and empower the next generation of medical professionals and community leaders, ensuring that his legacy of leadership, service, and excellence will persist for years to come.
Leadership in Advocacy: Championing Physicians and Patients
Dr. Mirza’s influence extends far beyond the walls of his clinic. His commitment to advocating for both physicians and patients has been a driving force throughout his career. As President of Hartford County Medical Association, Connecticut, he works tirelessly to ensure that physicians received the support they need to thrive in a challenging and evolving healthcare environment. Dr. Mirza has collaborated with legislators to pass laws and policies that would reduce the burden on healthcare providers. He has played an instrumental role in advocating for physician well-being, fair compensation, and workplace conditions that empower doctors to focus on what matters most—patient care. His efforts have made an enduring impact on the medical community and continue to shape healthcare policies today.
Dr. Atique Mirza’s expertise and leadership have earned him significant recognition and influence within the medical community. He has been nominated and elected by the Medical Executive Committee to serve on the Medical Staff Quality Care Overseeing Committee (MSQOC) at Trinity Health of New England/St. Francis Hospital (THONE/SFH), where he serves as a Cardiovascular Specialist Advisor. In this critical role, Dr. Mirza provides valuable insights and guidance on improving quality care standards and patient outcomes, drawing from his extensive experience in cardiovascular medicine.
Additionally, his commitment to enhancing medical staff engagement and leadership led to his nomination and election to the Nominating Committee of THONE/SFH, where he works alongside other distinguished professionals to help identify and select leaders who will continue to uphold the hospital's high standards of care and excellence. Through these esteemed positions, Dr. Mirza’s influence continues to shape the future of medical practice at THONE/SFH, furthering his dedication to advancing both physician performance and patient care.
Community Leadership: Co-Founding the Farmington Valley American Muslim Center
In addition to his work in healthcare, Dr. Mirza has been an advocate for his community. One of his proudest accomplishments is his role as a Founding Board Member of the Farmington Valley American Muslim Center (FVAMC), a modern, vibrant community center that serves as a hub for spiritual, cultural, and educational activities for Muslims in the region. FVAMC is widely praised for its welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. The vision for the center was simple—to create a place where individuals could find not only a space for worship but also a sense of community and belonging.
Under his leadership, FVAMC has become a pillar of strength, offering youth programs, interfaith dialogue, and community service that foster unity and understanding. Dr. Mirza’s work with FVAMC is a testament to his belief in community service and social responsibility. He has consistently worked to address the unique challenges faced by immigrant and minority communities, using his platform to create positive change.
A Legacy of Service and Recognition
Dr. Mirza’s dedication has earned him recognition from numerous organizations, including the Volunteerism Award from the American College of Physicians (ACP) and official citations from the Connecticut General Assembly. His contributions to the medical community and public service have solidified his place as a trusted leader, advocate, and mentor.
Whether he is lecturing at cardiovascular conferences, meeting with legislators to craft better healthcare policies, or guiding young physicians in their careers, Dr. Mirza’s mission has always been the same: to make a lasting, positive difference in the lives of others. His work continues to inspire and motivate others to pursue excellence in medicine, advocate for change, and serve their communities with compassion.
A Loving Family: The Heart of His Journey
Throughout his professional achievements and community service, Dr. Mirza has always remained deeply grounded in his family. He is happily married to Dr. Faryal Mirza, a fellow physician and an unwavering source of support. Together, they have raised three wonderful children: Mehwish, Faraz, and Mohsin, who have grown up to embody the values of hard work, compassion, and service that their parents hold dear. Dr. Mirza is also a proud grandfather to his beautiful granddaughter, Marwa, whose presence adds even more joy and purpose to his life. His family has been a source of strength, love, and inspiration throughout his journey, and they continue to be his biggest supporters as he continues his mission to help others.
A Continuing Journey
Dr. Mirza’s journey is far from over. His legacy as a cardiologist, educator, mentor, and community leader continues to grow, as he remains dedicated to advancing the fields of cardiovascular medicine, physician advocacy, education, community activism and community service. Through his work, he has shown that the true measure of success is not just in personal achievements, but it lies in the impact we have on others. Dr. Atique Mirza’s life story is a powerful reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a deep sense of purpose, one person can make a profound difference in the world.
Jalil A. Khan, MD
2001
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Mahmood Alam, MD
2002
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Sajid Chaudhary, MD
2003
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Iqbal Nasir, MD
2004
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Muhammad Tariq, MD
2005
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Asad Qamar, MD
2006
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Ashraf Sabahat, MD
2007
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Muhammad Babar Cheema, MD
2008
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Rizwan Akhtar, MD
2009
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Tahir Latif, MD, MBA
2010
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Khurram Nazeer, MD
2011
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Abid Hussain
2012
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Khadim Hussain
2013
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Asif Mahmood
2014
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Raza Khan, MD
2015
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Shahram Malik, MD
2016
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Saad Z. Usmani, MD
2017
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Saad Z. Usmani, MD
2017
Saad Z. Usmani, MBBS MD MBA FACP FRCP FASCO
Chief of Myeloma Service
Member, Myeloma, Cellular Therapy and Adult BMT Services
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
Professor, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University
Dr. Usmani received his medical education at Allama Iqbal Medical College in Lahore, Pakistan. He completed a residency in internal medicine at Sinai-Grace Hospital/Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, and a fellowship in hematology and oncology at the University of Connecticut Health Center in Farmington, Connecticut. He joined the Myeloma Institute for Research & Therapy, University of A rkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, AR, in 2010 as the Director of Developmental Therapeutics. He was recruited to the Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health in 2013 as the inaugural Division Chief of Plasma Cell Disorders and Director of Clinical Research for Hematologic Malignancies, where he built an internationally renowned myeloma program. He joined Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in 2021 as the Chief of Myeloma Service and holds a faculty position as Professor of Clinical Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University.
Dr. Usmani is board-certified in internal medicine, medical oncology, and hematology. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (UK), and Fellow of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. He holds membership and leadership roles on national and international committees, including the International Myeloma Working Group (Scientific Advisory Board Member), the ALLIANCE Myeloma NCI/NCTN Committee (Chair), the American Society of Hematology (ASH), the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the International Myeloma Society (Board Member), the American Society of Transplant & Cellular Therapy, and the National Cancer Institute Myeloma Steering Committee. Dr. Usmani has served as the Vice-Chair of the NCI/NCTN SWOG Myeloma Committee and has chaired the ASH Scientific Committee on Plasma Cell Neoplasia and the ASCO Scientific Committee on Lymphoma and Plasma Cell Disorders.
He has received several international awards recognizing his clinical and translational research contributions to the field, including the Celgene Young Investigator Award for Clinical Research, the COMY Award for Excellence in Myeloma Research, the LLS Scholar in Clinical Research Award, the International Myeloma Society Bart Barlogie Award for Clinical and Translational Research, and the LLS CDP Achievement Award. He has led the clinical development of several novel therapies, including anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, and CAR-T cell therapies, resulting in regulatory approvals in multiple myeloma. Dr. Usmani has authored or co-authored more than 300 peer-reviewed research manuscripts (published in NEJM, Lancet, Nature Medicine, JCO, Cancer Cell, Blood, Leukemia, etc.). His major contribution to the field is the clinical development of daratumumab, an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, which has significantly improved survival outcomes for multiple myeloma patients worldwide, with daratumumab-based induction regimens now considered the standard of care for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients.
h-index: 68 (Web of Science), citations 25,279; 71 (Scopus), citations 25,856; 82 (Google Scholar), citations 38,311.
Contributions to AIMCAANA and Allama Iqbal Medical College
Dr. Usmani had the distinct privilege of serving as the President of AIMCAANA (Allama Iqbal Medical College Alumni Association of North America) in 2017—a landmark year celebrating AIMCAANA’s 20th anniversary. His leadership focused on inclusivity, strengthening collaborations with APPNA, and furthering AIMCAANA’s commitment to supporting projects at Allama Iqbal Medical College. Under his tenure, AIMCAANA successfully contributed to various initiatives, including:
- Organizing the first-ever AIMCAANA Retreat at the APPNA Spring Meeting 2017 in Philadelphia, PA—an initiative that continues to be adopted by subsequent presidents.
- Renovating the Jinnah Hospital Lahore (JHL) Oncology Unit in collaboration with the APPNA Hem-Onc Chapter.
- Expanding the IQBAL Loan Program to support Iqbalians seeking graduate medical education (GME) in the US, with a commitment from recipients to return funds after securing residency, creating a sustainable financial resource for future students.
- Increasing AIMCAANA Endowment Funds by $20,000 to ensure long-term financial stability for alumni projects.
- Continuing support for the Zakat program benefiting underprivileged patients at Jinnah Hospital Lahore.
- Raising the Dr. Babar Sagoo Fund to support the family of a young Iqbalian who tragically passed away from cancer.
- Sponsoring the Annual MERIT Awards for top AIMC medical students across all professional exams. Initiating conversations for MOUs to support AIMC’s research mission and future capital projects.
- Overhauling the AIMCAANA website, making it more user-friendly, enabling members to create online profiles, pay dues online, and receive automated donation receipts for tax purposes.
- Supporting the APPNA Food Pantry Program with a $5,000 donation.
- Running the National Bone Marrow Drive Booth at the APPNA Summer Meeting 2017 in collaboration with the APPNA Hem-Onc Chapter.
- Achieving record-high AIMCAANA attendance (~150 members) at the APPNA Summer Meeting 2017.
- Organizing and chairing the APPNA Winter Meeting CME Program at Allama Iqbal Medical College in December 2017.
Contributing $35,000 towards AIMCAANA Healthcare Access and Empowerment Projects in Pakistan.
Dr. Usmani remains deeply committed to AIMCAANA’s mission and is proud to see younger Iqbalians taking leadership roles in advancing alumni efforts. His dedication to AIMCAANA reflects his broader passion for fostering mentorship, education, and healthcare access for the Pakistani medical community.
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Shahzad Iqbal, MD
2018
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Hafiz Muhammad Imran, MD
2019
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Sohail Sarwar, MD
2020
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Ghulam Abbas, MD
2021
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Ghulam Abbas, MD
2021
It’s a great honor and privilege to serve as a President and founder of APPNA Maryland Chapter. I am a graduate of AIMC class 2003 and completed Family Medicine Residency from Howard University Hospital Washington DC. I am married to Yemul Almecci and blessed with two daughters Ayat and Masooma. I have been living in the DC area for almost 15 years and serving the Community as a Primary Care. I also have been actively involved in local Montgomery County for health and education promotion.
Honors and Awards:Assistant Professor Howard University Family Medicine:
Medical Staff Secretary Howard university Hospital:
Research Assistant Mayo Clinic Rochester MN:
Book Chapter as Primary Author (Autoimmune liver diseases) :
President of AIMCAANA 2021:
President DMV Chapter of IMI current:
President Idara e Jaferia Maryland
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Nasrum Iqbal, MD
2022
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Nasrum Iqbal, MD
2022
NUSRUM IQBAL, MD, FACP, DABOIM, DABOM, DipABLM Diplomate American Board of Internal Medicine Diplomate American Board of Integrative Medicine Diplomate American Board of Obesity Medicine Diplomate American Board of Lifestyle Medicine Fellow American College of Physicians
Dr. Nusrum Iqbal graduated from Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore and completed his residency at District of Columbia General Hospital (Georgetown University) in Washington, DC. He was appointed as an Associate Professor of Medicine at Lahore Medical and Dental College, Lahore in 2001. He later moved back to United States and established his medical private practice. He held faculty position at Midwestern University as Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine for ten years. He was actively involved in medical resident and student teaching through the residency program at Sierra Vista Regional Health Center in Arizona. During his tenure at SVRHC, he served as the Chair of Department of Medicine for 6 years. He also served as the Board of Trustee of the hospital.
Dr. Nusrum Iqbal joined Cogent HMG hospitalist group as Program Medical Director and continued his leadership role at the Sierra Vista regional Health Center and Midwestern University, Arizona. He later moved to Tucson and joined El-Rio Community Health Center and then Sound Physicians at St Joseph’s Hospital, Tucson, Arizona.
Dr. Nusrum Iqbal is a strong advocate for patient quality care and is passionate about continuing medical education. His love for patient care forced him towards certification in Integrative Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine and Obesity Medicine. He is further specialized in managing complex obesity and treating chronic medical illnesses like Diabetes, Hypertension, Anxiety, Depression, Coronary Heart Disease, Obesity by lifestyle modifications. He is currently involved with the fellowship program at the Andrew Weil Center of Integrative Medicine at University of Arizona and has brought world renowned fellowship program of Integrative Medicine by Andrew Weil Center of Integrative Medicine to Qarshi University Lahore in Pakistan. Dr. Iqbal vision and mission are to promote Primary care medicine in Pakistan and working on providing primary care services to the deserving patients free of cost.
Dr Nusrum Iqbal loves to spend time with his family and friends. He likes hiking, swimming and traveling in his leisure time. His wife Dr. Kashaf Sherafgan is a General, Advanced Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeon and recently further specialized in Cosmetic Plastic Surgery. His daughter Noor Nusrum recently graduated with honors from University of Arizona and is pursuing her career as an Investment banker and his son Muhammad Nusrum is studying Computer Sciences . He remains grateful to Allah and his parents Akhter Iqbal and Muhammad Iqbal for his achievements and success.
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Naghma Malik, MD
2023
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Naghma Malik, MD
2024