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Chief Executive Officer

Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc.

Gagan Pawar MD, MBA

With a personal, educational and professional background that is deeply rooted in dedication to underserved populations, Gagan Pawar, MD, MBA remains steadfast in her commitment to doing what is best for local community. Raised in India, Dr. Pawar’s dream of becoming a doctor was inspired by the way physicians could heal common ailments. This dream was nurtured by her parents, who always took her to doctors when she was sick. What she thought were magical remedies always seemed to help her feel better.

I wanted to be a magician. My parents used to take me
to a doctor who would fix me. It was like magic.

Growing up in a military family, Dr. Pawar's life was marked by frequent relocations. This early exposure to constant change and diversity instilled in her adaptability and resilience, which would be valuable in her future career.

Dr. Pawar’s journey into healthcare services began in India, where she completed her medical education. However, a pivotal encounter deeply impacted her and solidified her commitment to underserved populations. During her time as a medical student, she came across an 18-year old patient who had an asthma exacerbation and asked for her help. Tragically, the young patient could not afford hospital admission, leading to his passing. This heartbreaking experience left a mark on her for years to come, fueling her resolve.

I don't want to practice medicine where people are denied basic necessities. To me, healthcare and education are basic necessities.
They are not a privilege.

Dr. Pawar’s professional healthcare journey commenced in 2005 in Botswana, Africa. As an associate physician, she witnessed the challenges faced by underserved populations, particularly those affected by HIV/AIDS. This experience fueled her dedication to addressing healthcare disparities. Confronted with a healthcare system strained by the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS, she cared for patients in dire situations, reinforcing the urgent need for comprehensive and compassionate healthcare solutions in underserved communities.

Starting as a family physician, she completed her Residency in Family Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania from June 2008 to November 2011. It was during this period in Pennsylvania that Dr. Pawar actively engaged in serving underserved populations through her work at community health centers. Her experiences in Philadelphia marked the beginning of her commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and providing essential medical care to those in need in the United States.

In August 2011, Dr. Pawar joined Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. as a family physician, swiftly advancing to leadership roles, including Associate Medical Director and Chief Medical Officer (CMO), demonstrating strong dedication to the organization. Driven by a desire for impact, she also pursued a Masters of Business Administration at Indiana University-Kelley School of Business in 2020, graduating in 2022 while maintaining her leadership role and caring for patients during the pandemic.

In May 2021, Dr. Pawar assumed the role of Interim Chief Executive Officer, showcasing stability and effective leadership. Her adept handling resulted in a permanent appointment as CEO, marking a remarkable career path characterized by commitment and excellence.

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During DudddkjlsjfDuring her time as CEO, Dr. Pawar has faced numerous challenges, demonstrating her determination and leadership skills. For example, the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 marked and extended period of uncertainty. To lead by example, Dr. Pawar volunteered on the front lines, spending the first five days of the shut-down at COVID testing sites. For nearly two years, she did not have to assign volunteers because the Clinicas team willingly covered all shifts. Dr. Pawar considers this period, marked by the challenges and triumphs of the Clinicas team during the pandemic, as one of her proudest achievement in her journey as CEO, a testament to their collective strength, unity, and dedication.

As a focal leader during the COVID pandemic, Dr. Pawar was proud not only to serve the community but to be amongst some of the strongest men and women ever, to navigate these uncharted waters. She is passionate about women's leadership and fostering an environment where women can thrive in leadership roles.

Dr. Pawar is dedicated to her vision of making Clinicas known as the “employer of choice,” where employee well-being, growth, and satisfaction are vital to the success of the organization. Dr. Pawar's commitment to the development of the workforce includes not only physical and mental health but also a committed focus on career growth opportunities within Clinicas. She passionately advocates for a workplace culture that nurtures continuous learning and advancement, empowering each team member to pursue and achieve their professional aspirations.

To further her investment to the employees of Clinicas, she has supported the establishment of committees dedicated to engagement and wellness. This solidifies Dr. Pawar's strategy to create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally. In her pursuit of making Clinicas the preferred workplace, Dr. Pawar aims to foster a community where individuals not only find fulfillment in their current roles but also envision a long and rewarding career journey within the organization.

In her current role as the CEO of Clinicas, she remains persistent in her commitment to making a positive impact in the community. Her dedication to hands-on care persists, as she continues to practice medicine once a week at the Clinicas Newbury Park Health Center. This routine nurtures her deep connection with patients, and helps her stay true to her passion for making a direct impact on their lives.

 

 

Clinicas is here to make healthcare better, to be the trusted partner of every household in Ventura County, and to provide quality care while enhancing the patient experience.

Her extraordinary approach to healthcare is evident, where she not only shapes the future of the organization but actively participates in the well-being of the community she serves.