It is said; the first time is always the hardest. Particularly, if you do not know how to start, have never dealt with such matters, when you know that you aren't going to benefit directly from your time and effort. Most would say, why bother?

I have always wondered why Indians work so hard to help each other, but not we Russians? There are already 55 actively functioning ethnic medical associations in the US, but none that represent the former Soviet Union. We the Great Empire offspring for so many years were discouraged to take initiative and encouraged not to show off, to be just a little wheel in the mighty soviet machine. If someone did better than us, we were envious instead of being happy for their success. It is ingrained in us.

But thank God there are people who think differently. Individuals who sacrifice their precious family and professional time for the sake of others.

Revolution, Bolsheviks talked for so long about it, then it finally came to be. Recently the first R-AMA conference took place in Cleveland, OH, home of the founder of the association Dr. Boris Vinogradsky.

Despite a winter storm that blanketed the Central States and stalled traffic in the North East; participants arrived from across the States and Canada. Doctors, nurses, students, lawyers, researchers, people from all walks of medical life were present. Ages ranging from the 20s to 60s, those who came to the land of opportunity 30 years ago, or just a few months ago. All coming together for a single purpose.

Highlighting the conference were informative presentations relevant to issues in today's medical community such as, the malpractice crisis in the US, and insurance concerns for health care professionals.One presentation of particular interest was by the representative from the Continental Group from Washington, DC. He spoke on how Russian medical professionals can inject a fresh perspective into the stagnant US Health Care System. Being that we were trained under a much different system we look at things with a fresh eye, we have the ability to orchestrate change. We even have the right to go to Congress with our ideas, changing the medical system in the US for the better.

It was gratifying as well to see that the big pharmaceutical companies representatives were there, showing that they take us seriously as a a viable Medical Association.

The mission of the R-AMA is to promote cooperation in the Russian-American medical community. Helping patients, students and health care professionals alike. Not only aiding newcomers to establish themselves in the US, but also our compatriots in Russia, helping to improve the miserable medical situation in most parts of the country.

The festivities were capped off by dinner in a local Russian restaurant. Where official ceremony changed to a friendly and relaxed party atmosphere. Toasts, laughter, singing and, of course, our favorite Russian cuisine, a fitting end to a successful conference.

It is just the beginning of a long journey. There is still much to be done.
My hat goes off to Boris for his tireless work and dedication to the cause….
Let us all remember. If we do not help each other, no one will.

Author: Yuri Simonenko, MD


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