History of BIPA:

In the current climate of IT revolution, NHS changes, government initiatives, revalidation, evidence based practice, clinical governance, CPD, CME, performance development etc, our profession has gone through and continues to go through breathtaking transformations. Advances in molecular genetics, psychopharmacological interventions, brain imaging techniques etc. can contribute to the rapid unravelling of brain functions and as a result, our practice of psychiatry.

The role of psychiatrists has also increasingly come under scrutiny. Sharing knowledge, kinship and peer reviews are becoming essential ingredients of our working life. To aid communication among British Psychiatrists of Indian origin and to keep up our morale, it is essential to develop networks and openness to new knowledge, adaptability in the light of change in practices and mutual support.

There are approximately one thousand practicing British psychiatrists of Indian origin at different grades in the UK. There is no forum that would give them an opportunity to share and bring them together for mutual support. There has been an organization in existence in the west named IAPA (Indo-American Psychiatric Association) since 1984. Dr Babu RaoChaprala and Dr Harish Gadhvi following their return from a conference in the USA in 1995 initiated the idea to set up BIPA and called all interested parties.

On 20 October 1995, a preliminary meeting was held and due to encouraging response and further four meetings the birth of BIPA became a reality. The steering executive committee with frequent meetings led the mantle. Currently with over 500 members and increasing interest in membership, BIPA has established its place. However, there is a need to strengthen the organization so that our voice is heard where it matters most.