Asthma and allergy specialist Praveen Buddiga, M.D., of Fresno was honored as the Physician Leader of the Year by the California Medical Association (CMA) Foundation’s Network of Ethnic Physician Organizations (NEPO) at its 2014 Leadership Summit in Riverside. He was recognized for his outstanding leadership to support ethnic health care professionals; eliminate health care disparities; reduce air pollution and climate change; and create healthier communities with greater options for walking, biking and other clean air options.

Dr. Buddiga helped develop a network of clinics that offer allergy, asthma, immunology and sinus services in underserved areas of the Central Valley to address the lack of health care. He is also a champion for those living with lung cancer, COPD and other serious lung health challenges.

Currently the CEO of the Baz Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center, Dr. Buddiga is also delegate for the CMA House of Delegates, representing the Fresno-Madera Medical Society. He is also an active board member on the Environmental Justice Advisory Group  of the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District.