PHOENIX – July 29, 2024 – Spectrum Medical Care Center is proud to announce that Dr. Jose Rodriguez-Garcia, Medical Director at Spectrum Medical Care Center, has been recognized by the National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) and the National Hispanic Health Foundation as one of the outstanding medical professionals in their prestigious national list of “40 under 40”. NHMA recognized his dedication to on whole-person healthcare, HIV prevention, treatment, and education, as well as his role as a resource to other healthcare providers on these topics which in turn p inclusivity in healthcare settings.
“It is an honor to be recognized by the National Hispanic Medical Association. I extend a heartfelt thank you to the selection panel,” said Dr. Rodriguez-Garcia. “This recognition helps educate my peers about the unique experiences of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, significantly contributing to the establishment of equitable healthcare standards for patients everywhere.”
With a specialty in whole-person healthcare and HIV education, treatment, and prevention, Dr. Rodriguez-Garcia has been a pivotal figure in enhancing the quality of care for LGBTQIA2S+ patients. His approach emphasizes the importance of trust and inclusivity in healthcare settings, which is critical in encouraging patients to seek regular medical attention and take necessary preventative measures.
“Recognition in this distinguished list emphasizes Dr. Rodriguez’s exceptional contributions to our community from primary care to HIV intervention,” said Victor E. Avila, Director of Marketing and Community Engagement at Spectrum Medical. “The NHMA highlighted his involvement in our mobile clinic, which focuses on PrEP uptake, and its critical role in ensuring access to life-saving preventative HIV medication.”
Commitment to Whole-Person Healthcare and HIV Prevention
“Patients are more likely to schedule their annual wellness visits and take other preventative measures if they trust their primary care provider.,” said Dr. Jose Rodriguez-Garcia. “Sadly, the data shows that LGBTQIA2S+ patients may forgo preventative care because of one negative experience in a healthcare setting. I continue to work with the NHMA to train healthcare provider peers across the country to raise awareness about ways to create a more inclusive clinical setting.”
Championing Inclusivity in Healthcare
Recognizing the historical inequities faced by LGBTQIA2S+ individuals in healthcare, Dr. Rodriguez-Garcia advocates for practices that foster a welcoming and inclusive environment. This commitment is reflected in Spectrum Medical Care Center’s approach, which includes:
- Asking about preferred pronouns and preferred names on intake forms.
- Acknowledging the diversity within the LGBTQIA2S+ community and avoiding stereotypes.
- Educating medical staff on LGBTQIA2S+ terminology and culture through credible sources like the Human Rights Campaign.
- Differentiating between birth sex and gender identity on paperwork.
There is no doubt that entities like the NHMA are positioned to make significant impacts across the U.S., including playing a role in ending the HIV epidemic, making this recent achievement all the more timely.
“Taking extra care with LGBTQIA2S+ patients can help reverse historical inequities in the healthcare system and reduce stigma about HIV,” said Dr. Rodriguez-Garcia. “My hope is that, together, we can increase access to quality care and normalize proactive sexual health awareness.”