Vishal Panchigar

Vishal Panchigar is currently pursuing his Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) at PCOM Georgia, where he is focused on becoming a leader in healthcare. With a strong passion for public health, Vishal is dedicated to making a difference in underserved communities by improving healthcare access and patient outcomes. His approach to healthcare is rooted in a desire to combine clinical medicine with strategic public health initiatives to create sustainable, long-term solutions for complex healthcare challenges.

Vishal’s academic journey began at the University of South Florida, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. This foundational education gave him an in-depth understanding of the human body, health, and disease, preparing him for the rigors of medical school. He went on to complete a Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) in Healthcare Organizations and Management at USF in 2021. His graduate studies equipped him with essential skills in healthcare policy, organizational management, and data analysis, enabling him to develop innovative strategies to tackle modern healthcare issues.

Commitment to Leadership and Community Health

Vishal’s leadership abilities have shone through during his academic career. As President of the Healthcare Management Student Association (HMSA) at USF, he successfully led initiatives that increased student participation and engagement, building stronger connections between students and healthcare professionals. Under his leadership, HMSA received the Outstanding Graduate Student Organization Award, showcasing his ability to lead and inspire others.

In his role as Vice President of Advocacy for Health Students Taking Action Together (H-STAT), Vishal played a crucial role in advocating for telehealth services. He provided legislative testimony in support of government mandates requiring insurers to include telehealth providers in their plans. This initiative was a critical step in expanding healthcare access, particularly for patients in rural and underserved areas. His advocacy work demonstrated his forward-thinking approach to modern healthcare and highlighted his focus on improving patient care through technology.

Vishal’s leadership also extended into community healthcare initiatives. As Clinic Director of the PCOM Hearts Student Clinic, he spearheaded efforts to provide free health screenings and educational programs throughout the Greater Atlanta Area, focusing on underserved populations. Through his leadership, the clinic conducted 12 major health screenings and established partnerships with local clinics, ensuring continued healthcare access for vulnerable communities. His work also provided students with hands-on volunteer opportunities, further integrating education and community service.

A Visionary in Public Health

Vishal’s work in public health is characterized by innovative research and forward-thinking ideas. At USF, he conducted research on Space Utilization in Multi-Specialty Health Clinics, exploring how optimizing healthcare environments can improve patient flow and operational efficiency. His research provided actionable insights into how healthcare facilities can be designed better to meet the needs of both patients and healthcare providers.

Vishal also authored a white paper titled “Apple + Healthcare: How and Why Your Apple iOS Data Should be Linked to Your Electronic Health Records.” This paper explored the potential for integrating mobile health data with electronic health records, offering a more seamless healthcare experience for both patients and providers. His work in this area underscores his belief that technology plays a vital role in the future of healthcare, enabling more accurate and timely care for patients.

Extensive Real-World Experience

Vishal’s commitment to healthcare extends beyond the classroom. Through various internships and volunteer experiences, he has gained hands-on experience that has enriched his understanding of healthcare systems and patient care. One of his most formative experiences was at the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa, where he observed the challenges veterans faced in accessing comprehensive healthcare. This experience deepened his commitment to ensuring that underserved populations receive high-quality, compassionate care.

He also served as a Physician Observer at Tampa General Hospital, where he gained valuable insights into patient care and clinical operations. His time observing healthcare professionals in action helped him develop a deeper understanding of the importance of patient-centered care. Vishal’s experience as a Data Entry Assistant at the Florida Cardiovascular Institute further strengthened his skills in healthcare data management, which is increasingly crucial in improving patient outcomes and advancing medical research.

Dedication to Global Health and Service

Vishal’s dedication to improving healthcare extends to the global stage. As the International Volunteer Coordinator and later the Internal Affairs Director for MEDLIFE at the University of South Florida, he played a pivotal role in organizing healthcare missions to underserved regions in Latin America and Africa. MEDLIFE’s mission, which focuses on Medicine, Education, and Development for Low-Income Families Everywhere, aligned perfectly with Vishal’s commitment to addressing healthcare disparities. His work in these regions helped provide much-needed medical care and education to communities that lacked adequate healthcare services.

Additionally, Vishal served as the Volunteering Coordinator for the Alpha Epsilon Delta fraternity at USF, where he actively engaged his peers in meaningful volunteer work. His leadership in this role helped foster a sense of community responsibility among students and highlighted the importance of giving back to society.

A Well-Rounded Leader with a Vision for the Future

His interests and passions complement Vishal Panchigar’s dedication to healthcare, leadership, and community service. He enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures, often through their food and culinary traditions. He is also an enthusiastic supporter of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Lightning, reflecting his strong connection to his community and love for sports.

Vishal’s well-rounded approach to life, combining his academic achievements, leadership roles, and passion for public health, positions him as a future leader in the healthcare industry. His focus on improving patient care, expanding healthcare access, and integrating technology into healthcare systems will continue to shape his career as he strives to make a meaningful impact in the field. With his innovative mindset and commitment to service, Vishal is well on his way to transforming healthcare for the better.