Each year, Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) provides an opportunity to celebrate the rich history, culture, and lasting contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. In health care, Hispanic Physicians, Nurses, and Scientists have paved the way for innovation, expanded access to care, and inspired future generations.
Pioneers Who Shaped the Medical Field
Dr. Carlos Juan Finlay (1833–1915)
A Cuban physician and scientist, Dr. Finlay revolutionized global public health with his discovery that mosquitoes transmit yellow fever. His work laid the foundation for vector control, saving countless lives and influencing infectious disease research for generations.
Dr. Helen Rodríguez-Trías (1929–2001)
A Puerto Rican pediatrician and public health advocate, Dr. Rodríguez-Trías was the first Latina Director of the American Public Health Association. She dedicated her career to women’s and children’s health, working to reduce infant mortality and championing reproductive rights and health equity.
Dr. Antonia Novello (b. 1944)
In 1990, Dr. Novello, a Puerto Rican Physician, made history as the first woman and first Hispanic U.S. Surgeon General. She focused her tenure on issues such as underage drinking, tobacco use, and HIV/AIDS prevention among vulnerable populations.
Dr. Severo Ochoa (1905–1993)
Born in Spain and later working in the United States, Dr. Ochoa was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1959 for his groundbreaking research on RNA synthesis. His work advanced molecular biology and contributed to modern genetics.
The Lasting Impact of Hispanic Health Leaders
These leaders not only shaped medicine but also opened doors for future generations of Hispanic and Latino health professionals. Today, countless Physicians, Nurses, researchers, and public health advocates continue to build on this legacy; working to improve health outcomes, address disparities, and provide culturally competent care.
Looking Ahead
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is not only about honoring history, but also about recognizing the ongoing contributions of Hispanic health professionals who strengthen our medical community every day. Their dedication serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity, representation, and innovation in health care.
Modern Trailblazers in Hispanic Health Care & Medicine
Dr. Elena V. Rios, MD, MSPH, MACP
President of the National Hispanic Health Foundation and President & CEO of the National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA), representing ~50,000 Hispanic Physicians in the U.S.
She has been a leading voice for health equity, policy advocacy focused on Hispanic health, and leadership development among Hispanic health professionals.
Dr. Maria Ansari, MD, FACC
Co-CEO of The Permanente Federation (Kaiser Permanente) and CEO of multiple Permanente Medical Groups. Named among Modern Healthcare’s 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives (2025).
Her leadership touches on care access, reducing disparities, adoption of new technologies (such as AI in care delivery), and influencing how large health systems serve diverse populations.
Dr. David E. Hayes-Bautista, PhD, MD
Distinguished Professor of Medicine and Director of the Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture (CESLAC) at UCLA; leading researcher in Latino health, culture, epidemiology. UCLA Health
He has helped improve understanding of how cultural, social, and behavioral factors intersect with health outcomes among Latinos; also works on education and leadership training for Latino health professionals.
Dr. Carrie L. Byington, MD
Mexican-American Clinician; Pediatric infectious disease specialist. In 2016 became the first Hispanic woman to serve as Dean of a U.S. medical school (Texas A&M). Later took on leadership at UC Health overseeing several academic medical centers.
She breaks barriers in academic and institutional leadership, while also contributing in clinical care, infectious disease research, and health systems management. Wikipedia
Dr. Raul Ruiz, MD, MPP, MPH
Physician, former emergency medicine practitioner, and currently U.S. Representative; has been involved in global health work and founded regional health initiatives. His medical background informs his legislative and public health work; he helps bridge policy, community health, and clinical practice, especially for underserved populations. Wikipedia
Dr. Francisco G. “Paco” Cigarroa, MD
Transplant surgeon; former Chancellor of the University of Texas System; first Hispanic to serve as President of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Currently chairs the Ford Foundation. Wikipedia