Shagun Bindlish, M.D., a Bay Area internist and diabetologist, has been named the recipient of the California Medical Association’s (CMA) Compassionate Service Award. The award is given annually to a physician whose career demonstrates outstanding commitment to community and charitable care.
Dr. Bindlish is recognized for her efforts to address health inequities through both clinical work and policy advocacy. She founded the Golden State Obesity Society (GSOS), a nonprofit that promotes obesity and lifestyle medicine via education programs and collaboration among healthcare providers. Under her direction, GSOS has established chapters in underserved areas 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 leads training for multidisciplinary teams—Dr. Bindlish has played an active role in public health policy. She worked with the American Diabetes Association and state Senator Scott Wiener on SB 40, legislation aimed at making insulin more affordable and accessible. Dr. Bindlish acted as an expert witness during the bill’s passage through both legislative chambers 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, where she has received recognition for her contributions to obesity medicine education. Through GSOS’s Youth Ambassador Initiative, she involves high school and college students in public health advocacy efforts.
“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.”
