For her dedication and advocacy, Dr. Imara has been name Hawai‘i Physician of the Year

In a significant recognition of her dedication and advocacy in behavioral health care, Dr. Fatima Imara of the Pacific Permanente Group has been named the Healthcare Association of Hawai‘i’s Physician of the Year for 2024. This prestigious award underscores Dr. Imara’s commitment to providing compassionate psychiatric care, particularly during challenging times such as the aftermath of the Maui wildfires.

A Pioneering Psychiatrist in Maui

Dr. Fatima Imara is a renowned psychiatrist with a specialization in child and adolescent psychiatry. She completed her medical degree at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, followed by an internship and residency in psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco, where she served as Chief Resident. Her clinical expertise further deepened with a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of California, Los Angeles.

A Life of Service and Dedication

Born and raised in the East Bay area, Dr. Imara’s upbringing in a family of educators instilled in her a lifelong passion for learning and community involvement. Her journey to becoming a psychiatrist was influenced by her interest in biology and anatomy, as well as her desire to serve others. Initially considering a career in pediatrics, she eventually found herself drawn to the complexities of child and adult behavior, emotional dynamics, and cultural experiences.

Personal and Professional Pursuits

Dr. Imara’s personal life is as vibrant as her professional career. She maintains her physical fitness by enjoying various outdoor activities such as gardening, yoga, hiking, cycling, jogging, paddling, and spending time at the beach. Her family life is also rich with experiences, as she loves learning dances from her kids, reading, playing the piano, experimenting with new recipes, crocheting, and listening to podcasts and jazz. Her commitment to volunteering is evident through her involvement with organizations like the Maui Humane Society, the Hawaii Land Trust, and Feed My Sheep.

Compassionate Care in Challenging Times

The recent Maui wildfires have left a profound impact on the community, causing widespread trauma and loss. In the face of such adversity, Dr. Imara’s dedication to her patients has been paramount. She has consistently provided critical mental health resources to families and individuals experiencing trauma and loss. By working closely with colleagues at Pacific Permanente Group, Maui Health, and other community partners, she has ensured that those affected receive comprehensive support.

A Holistic Approach to Mental Health

Dr. Imara’s approach to mental health care is holistic and compassionate. She collaborates with a multidisciplinary team at Maui Memorial Medical Center, including social workers, psychologists, and nurses, to deliver care that addresses the whole person – not just the symptoms. Her quiet leadership and advocacy for comprehensive approaches to well-being are notable. She often encourages patients to explore meditation, yoga, and other holistic treatments in addition to traditional medical care.

Recognitions and Awards

The Healthcare Association of Hawai‘i’s (HAH) Physician of the Year award is a testament to Dr. Imara’s outstanding contributions to behavioral health care and her compassionate service to the Maui community. This peer award recognizes her dedication to patient- and family-centered care, her collaborative spirit, and her deep compassion for the community. Her commitment to treating everyone with respect, dignity, and care, regardless of circumstances, has been inspirational for her team and the community at large.

A Community Leader

Dr. Imara serves as a strong advocate for mental health patients and actively participates in family-oriented health events. Her dedication to social justice and public service reflects her belief in the role of healthcare providers in building stronger, healthier communities. As she noted, “It has been my privilege to serve the truly inspirational people of Maui. As a psychiatrist, I hope this award will help raise awareness about mental health and its essential role in our communities”.

Formal Recognition

Dr. Imara will be formally recognized at the 2024 HAH Awards and Scholarship Gala. This event will celebrate her achievements and honor her commitment to the field of psychiatry. It is a fitting tribute to her hard work and dedication, and it underscores the importance of recognizing exceptional healthcare professionals who make a significant impact in their communities.

Conclusion

The recognition of Dr. Fatima Imara as Hawai‘i’s Physician of the Year is a momentous occasion that highlights the significance of compassionate and dedicated healthcare professionals. Her work not only improves the lives of her patients but also reinforces the value of holistic and community-oriented mental health care. As she continues to serve the people of Maui, her legacy as a pioneering psychiatrist will undoubtedly inspire future generations.

---

References

• https://pacificpermanente.com/our-physicians/fatima-imara-md/
• https://mauinow.com/2024/10/21/pacific-permanente-groups-dr-fatima-imara-honored-as-hawai%CA%BBi-physician-of-the-year/
• https://www.mauihealth.org/news/releases/pacific-permanente-groups-dr-fatima-imara-honored-as-hawaii-physician-of-the-year/