The Association of Physicians of India
Championing Clinical Excellence in Vellore and Beyond
Founded in 1944 and headquartered in Mumbai, the Association of Physicians of India (API) is the largest professional body representing physicians specializing in internal medicine across India. With over 20,000 members, API is committed to advancing clinical standards, promoting research, and fostering education through scientific meetings, publications, and mentorship.
Each year, the prestigious APICON brings together thousands of physicians from across the country, showcasing the latest in medical research and clinical practice. Through its state and district branches, API sustains year-round engagement in the form of monthly CMEs, local updates, and outreach programs, ensuring that knowledge reaches every corner of the medical community.
Vellore Branch: A Model of Growth, Commitment & Innovation
Among the many dynamic branches of API, the Vellore District Branch stands out for its rapid growth and meaningful impact on the region’s medical community.
Started in June 2016 by three visionary physicians – Dr. Sukumar, Dr. Bharani, and Dr. K. Sathish Kumar – the branch began with just seven members. Less than a decade later, it has grown into a robust body of nearly 100 physicians, uniting internists across Vellore, Tirupattur, Thiruvannamalai, and Kanchipuram.
Its core mission? To equip clinicians with current, evidence-based knowledge while nurturing the next generation of physicians. The branch conducts monthly CME meetings and regularly organizes special updates tailored for general practitioners, ensuring that even busy frontline doctors stay in sync with evolving medical guidelines.
In response to disease outbreaks or public health concerns, the branch issues timely recommendations and updates. It also publishes a well-received e-magazine distributed to over 1,500 physicians across Tamil Nadu, showcasing academic insights, expert opinions, and case discussions. The current Editor of the E-magazine is Dr. T. Adalarasu, known for his editorial vision and academic rigor.
A unique hallmark of the branch is its strong support for postgraduate students in internal medicine. By inviting them to present complex clinical cases and deliberate with senior consultants, the branch creates a rare, interactive academic forum that blends clinical wisdom with current science.
This year, the branch has been entrusted with hosting the state’s flagship academic event the Tamil Nadu Association of Physicians of India Conference (TAPICON 2025) scheduled for June 20–22, 2025, in Vellore. With over 1,500 delegates expected to attend, this prestigious event will highlight the Vellore branch’s organizational strength and academic leadership on a state platform.
Current Office Bearers – Vellore API Branch
With its blend of academic rigor, mentorship, and clinical relevance, the Vellore branch of API is not only growing in numbers but in stature—becoming a model of collaboration, compassion, and commitment within the API family.
Medical History Of Vellore
Vellore’s medical history dates back to ancient times with traditional practices like Ayurveda and Siddha. However, the city’s modern healthcare journey began in 1900 with the establishment of Christian Medical College (CMC) by Dr. Ida Scudder, which transformed medical education, especially for women and underserved communities. CMC soon became a renowned institution for medical research, healthcare innovations, and training some of the best doctors in India.
The city also played a significant role during the Vellore Mutiny of 1806, which led to the establishment of military hospitals by the British. Over time, Vellore became a hub for medical advancements, including pioneering heart surgeries and organ transplants, led by CMC.
Public health initiatives have always been a priority, with CMC playing a crucial role in outreach programs, rural health camps, and disease control efforts. The Vellore Chapter of the Association of Physicians of India (API), founded in 1982, continues to strengthen the city's medical community by promoting research, education, and collaboration among healthcare professionals.
Today, Vellore is recognized globally for its contributions to medical education, research, and healthcare, making it a leading destination for healthcare professionals and patients alike.
