What does it take to become a physician leader while navigating the challenges of medical residency and immigration? In this episode of PAMED Talks, Dana Lombardo, Outreach Specialist at the Pennsylvania Medical Society, interviews Tejas Nikumbh, MD, an internal medicine chief resident, PAMED trustee, and Vice Chair of the Residents & Fellows Section.

Dr. Nikumbh discusses his journey in physician advocacy, the leadership opportunities available through PAMED, and how involvement in organized medicine has helped shape his career. He also shares his firsthand experience navigating the recent J-1 visa processing freeze, highlighting the challenges many international medical graduates (IMGs) face during residency.

The conversation also explores Dr. Nikumbh's recognition as a 2026 PAMED Top Physician Under 40, practical career advice for resident physicians and fellows, and how physicians in training can develop leadership skills through section elections, advocacy, and participation in the PAMED House of Delegates.

Whether you're a medical student, resident, fellow, or practicing physician, this episode offers valuable insights into physician leadership, organized medicine, residency success, and making a lasting impact in healthcare.

Learn more about PAMED's Residents & Fellows Section: pamedsoc.org/RFS

Visit www.pamedsoc.org for more.