Iqra Baig, MD, MS
Dr. Baig recently graduated from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies. During her clinical training, she was recognized by her peers and instructors for her compassionate care and was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society.
A lifelong resident of Jersey City, Dr. Baig attended Rutgers University – Newark Honors College, graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Biology. She completed her honors thesis at the Aging & Brain Health Alliance lab, a university-community collaboration aimed at expanding the understanding of aging and brain health and preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Her experience there underscored the positive impact of mental well-being on physical health outcomes, as she saw how risk reduction strategies like consistent participation in Zumba classes and health education led to improved cognitive performance.
During her undergraduate years, Dr. Baig served as the Vice President of Community Service for the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and acted as a liaison for community service between the honors college and other student organizations. This role allowed her to work with local public schools, soup kitchens, and the Newark Beth Israel Hospital to support various initiatives and address the needs of Newark’s residents. These efforts led to visible improvements in the lives of those served and helped student volunteers integrate into the diverse Newark community.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Dr. Baig earned a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in Middletown, NY, before ultimately pursuing her medical degree at St. George’s University School of Medicine.
As an aspiring pediatrician, MPH candidate, and aunt, Dr. Baig sees child health advocacy as central to her various roles. She was honored to receive a scholarship from the AAP to attend the 2024 AAP Advocacy Conference in Washington, D.C., where she lobbied New Jersey’s representatives and senators for legislation to protect children’s online well-being and ensure funds for Emergency Medical Services for Children. This opportunity has inspired her to be more proactive in child health advocacy as she believes pediatricians to be respected, credible voices with a natural affinity and responsibility to speak up for their patients. She is especially passionate about supporting mental health initiatives for children and adolescents and is honored and excited to join the Growing Healthy Minds Hub team!