Shagun Bindlish, M.D., an internist, diabetologist, and community health advocate based in the Bay Area, has been named the recipient of the California Medical Association’s (CMA) Compassionate Service Award. The annual award honors a physician whose career is marked by significant dedication to community and charity care.
Dr. Bindlish is recognized for her work in addressing health inequities through clinical practice and policy advocacy. She founded and leads the Golden State Obesity Society (GSOS), a nonprofit organization focused on obesity and lifestyle medicine. Under her direction, GSOS has expanded its reach by establishing chapters in underserved communities throughout California.
In addition to serving as Medical Director at One Medical in Dublin, California, where she provides care for patients with obesity and diabetes and trains multidisciplinary teams, Dr. Bindlish is active in public health policy efforts. She worked closely with the American Diabetes Association and state Senator Scott Wiener to support SB 40, legislation aimed at making insulin more affordable and accessible. Dr. Bindlish also acted as an expert witness during the legislative process that led to the bill’s passage by both chambers of the legislature before it was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom.
“Her commitment extends beyond direct care to meaningful structural change,” said Irene J. Lo, M.D., president of the Alameda Contra Costa Medical Association. “In her leadership roles with the American Diabetes Association, Obesity Medicine Association, and the American College of Physicians, Dr. Bindlish champions policy initiatives to improve access to obesity and diabetes treatment.”
Dr. Bindlish also serves as adjunct faculty at Touro University California and received the Peter G. Lindner Award for Outstanding Contribution to Obesity Medicine Education. She leads initiatives such as the GSOS Youth Ambassador Initiative, which involves high school and college students in public health advocacy.
“What makes Dr. Bindlish especially deserving of this award is not just the scope of her work, but the heart with which she serves,” said Valerie Kovacovich, Executive Director of American Diabetes Association, Northern California. “She gives her free time, balancing the demands of her medical profession with an unwavering dedication to community impact. Her work is not motivated by recognition but by a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”
