5/19/25 Statement: Long Island Family Physician Installed as 79th President of New York State Academy of Family Physicians

Long Island Family Physician Installed as 79^th President of  New York State Academy of Family Physicians

 The New York State Academy of Family Physicians (NYSAFP) has elected Christine Doucet, MD, Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians (FAAFP) of Patchogue, New York president and was installed to a one-year term at the NYSAFP Congress of Delegates on May 17^th in Albany. Dr. Doucet received her medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine and has been in practice for more than 25 years at Patchogue Family Medical Care.

“It is with profound gratitude and tremendous pride that I welcome you all to the 77th Congress of Delegates of the NYSAFP. I am deeply honored to stand before you today as the 79th President of this incredible organization – an Academy that represents the very heart of healthcare across our great state,” said Dr. Doucet in her opening remarks addressing the Congress of Delegates.

“First and foremost, thank you to our members, our leaders, and our past presidents — for your unwavering dedication to our mission. It is because of your passion, perseverance, and professionalism that the NYSAFP continues to thrive and grow, serving as a strong voice for family physicians and the communities we care for.”

“Family medicine is more than a specialty. Family medicine is where medicine begins — and where it must return. It is a commitment — to lifelong relationships with our patients, to comprehensive and compassionate care, and to the belief that everyone, no matter where they live, in every small town, city block, and community health center, or who they are, deserves access to a trusted physician. In a world of increasing complexity, family physicians bring simplicity, humanity, and hope. We deliver the kind of care that every community deserves.”

“We are family medicine — the front line, the foundation, the future of healthcare in New York State. Every day, we lead with heart, with skill, and with the belief that everyone deserves a physician who knows them, sees them, and fights for them.”

“As we gather today, we recognize the challenges we face: evolving healthcare landscapes, systemic inequities, growing administrative burdens. But we also recognize our extraordinary opportunity — to lead boldly, to advocate fiercely, and to innovate fearlessly.”

“We are facing a changing world — but family physicians have always been the ones to lead change, not just react to it. Over the coming year, I am committed to strengthening our advocacy efforts in Albany and beyond, advancing health equity, supporting physician wellness, and inspiring the next generation of family doctors to choose this noble path. We will work tirelessly to ensure that family medicine remains the foundation of a healthier New York.”

“I want to acknowledge the extraordinary leadership of my predecessors, whose vision and commitment have brought us to this moment. I also thank our exceptional Academy staff, who’s behind-the-scenes work makes all of this possible. And most importantly, I thank all of you — our members — for entrusting me with this responsibility.”

“This year, we have work to do. Big work. Work that matters — not just for our profession, but for every patient we serve. Advocacy. Innovation. Empowering the next generation. Protecting the joy and meaning of practicing medicine. Together, we will continue to shape the future of family medicine in New York State — with courage, compassion, and conviction.”

NYSAFP represents nearly 6,000 family physicians, residents and students across the State. NYSAFP Family Physicians are board-certified and specialize in family medicine. Family physicians focus on the whole patient providing care throughout their lifetime. They provide comprehensive healthcare services to treat diseases and injuries in all age groups from newborns to the geriatric population and across all medical fields. Family Physicians focus on prevention, wellness and overall care coordination for patients and family medicine is the only specialty to focus on the care of the entire family unit. Family Physicians are also a main source of primary health care in New York and across the country.