In conversation with Dr. Saima Zafar | Host: Dr Omar Chughtai

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Saima Zafar, MD, MBA as our next guest on the DOC Podcast, hosted by Dr. Omar Chughtai. Dr. Saima Zafar is the CEO of Lakeview Cardiology of Texas in Dallas, USA. She has also served as Past President of APPNA (Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America.) and currently serves as Chair of SIUT North America, contributing to healthcare leadership, professional collaboration, and community service across both the United States and Pakistan. An alumna of King Edward Medical College, Lahore, Dr. Saima Zafar brings together the worlds of medicine, leadership, healthcare management, and service. In this upcoming conversation, we explore her professional journey, leadership experiences, connection with Pakistan, contributions to the medical community, and the lessons that have shaped her life and career. A conversation about medicine, leadership, service, and building impact beyond borders. ------------------------------------------------------------ 00:00 – Greetings & Introduction 00:43 – Education at King Edward 02:11 – Medical School at 16 Years of Age 04:54 – Highly Accomplished Parents 07:15 – Principal of Nishtar Medical College 08:40 – Reclaiming Authenticity 12:14 – Coming to America 13:10 – Ambitions & Dreams 15:23 – Pursuing Cardiology 18:29 – Consistency & Credibility 19:34 – Evolution of Cardiology 25:24 – Digital Health App 28:19 – Rise of Heart Attacks 31:10 – APPNA 36:29 – Importance of Mentorship 39:00 – Brain Drain 39:46 – Lack of Opportunities 40:23 – Blessing in Disguise 42:07 – Starting Zafar Meer Foundation 46:27 – Blessings Forgotten 47:14 – APPNA Merit Program 48:12 – Low Moments in Life 52:34 – What Is a Life Well Lived? 54:05 – Fighting Patriarchy 58:05 – Message on a Billboard