Baptist Health Medical Group welcomes family medicine physician Andria Rodriguez, M.D., to its Primary Care team

Dr. Rodriguez Headshot

MIAMI ― November 26, 2019 ― Family medicine physician Andria Rodriguez, M.D., has joined Baptist Health Medical Group, a network of primary care doctors and specialists who provide high-quality medical care to patients of all ages, as part of Baptist Health Primary Care. Dr. Rodriguez specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of health issues, including simple and complex health conditions, chronic disease management, minor emergencies and the coordination of specialty care. She also focuses on wellness and prevention to help patients prevent disease, decrease disability and maintain good health.

Dr. Rodriguez received her medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies. She completed a family medicine residency with St. Vincent’s East Family Medicine Program in Alabama, where she served as chief resident and recruiting coordinator. In addition, she holds a master’s degree in biomedical sciences from Barry University and research certifications from the National Institutes of Health and the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative. Prior to joining Baptist Health, she was an attending physician in the community. She is Board-certified in family medicine and is fluent in English and Spanish.

Active in her community, Dr. Rodriguez has served on the Boards of the Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis and the Hope and Dreams Foundation in Miami, and has volunteered with the Biomedical Sciences Society in Miami, the Orphanage Student Organization in Grenada, West Indies, and with M-Power Ministries in Birmingham, Ala. When she was a volunteer with the Miami-Dade County Health Department, Dr. Rodriguez was involved in a community education project to raise awareness and educate the community about asthma and its impact on health. She is the recipient of the Southeast Center of Excellence in Geriatric Medicine Resident Award.

“By being deeply involved in her community, Dr. Rodriguez is helping to solve the area’s most pressing health concerns and has developed strong ties to her patients and their families,” said Bernie Fernandez Jr., M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Baptist Health Medical Group.

She is affiliated with West Kendall Baptist Hospital and will see patients at 11535 SW 88 Street.

About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 11 hospitals, nearly 23,000 employees, more than 4,000 physicians and more than 100 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn.

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Ana Cecilia Belzarena, M.D., orthopedic surgical oncologist and pediatric orthopedic surgeon, joins Baptist Health Medical Group

MIAMI, FL – November 25, 2019 – Ana Cecilia BelDr. Belzarena Headshotzarena, M.D., a fellowship-trained oncology orthopedic surgeon and pediatric orthopedic surgeon, is bringing her talents to Miami Cancer Institute and to Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute. Miami Cancer Institute is Florida’s only member of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Alliance. Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute provides comprehensive services for athletes and non-athletes – from physical and cognitive evaluation to rehabilitation and surgical reconstruction. Dr. Belzarena specializes in the surgical treatment of musculoskeletal tumors, including benign and malignant bone and soft tissue tumors; with a main interest in limb salvage procedures, and metastatic lesions. She also manages the orthopedic problems that can arise in oncologic patients, such as pathologic and atypical fractures, avascular necrosis and osteoporosis. Additionally, Dr. Belzarena specializes in pediatric orthopedic surgery; specifically, pediatric fractures, limb abnormalities, hip and foot disorders, pediatric bone and soft tissue tumors and orthopedic care of cerebral palsy.

Dr. Belzarena earned her medical degree at the University of the Republic, College of Medicine in Montevideo, Uruguay and completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at Santa Casa of Sao Paulo Hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil. She then completed two orthopedic oncology fellowships at the following highly respected institutions: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, N.Y. and Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, FL, as well as a pediatric orthopedic surgery fellowship at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York.

Dr. Belzarena is actively involved in clinical research to increase the efficacy of treatments and improve patient outcomes. She was published in peer-reviewed medical journals and lectured at national and international academic symposiums. She is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society.

“We are proud to add Dr. Belzarena to our team of highly skilled specialists at Baptist Health Medical Group,” said Bernie Fernandez Jr., M.D., chief executive officer of Baptist Health Medical Group. “She brings exceptional expertise in two specialties and is a welcome addition to our two prestigious Institutes and our community.”

Both Michael J. Zinner, M.D., chief executive officer and executive medical director of Miami Cancer Institute, and John Uribe, M.D., medical director of Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute, agree that Dr. Belzarena’s diverse training and tremendous talents will greatly benefit patients at both Institutes.

Dr. Belzarena is affiliated with Baptist Hospital and South Miami Hospital and has two office locations in Miami: 8900 North Kendall Drive and 8740 North Kendall Drive, Suite 115.

About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 11 hospitals, nearly 23,000 employees, more than 4,000 physicians and more than 100 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn.

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Bethesda Health Physician Group welcomes fellowship-trained endocrine surgeon Jessica L. Buicko, M.D., to its team

Dr. Buicko headshot.jpgBOYNTON BEACH, FL – November 25, 2019 — The only fellowship-trained endocrine surgeon in Palm Beach County, Jessica L. Buicko, M.D., has joined Bethesda Health Physician Group, a premier physician group that provides high-quality medical care and is part of Baptist Health South Florida. Dr. Buicko treats a range of disorders impacting the body’s endocrine system through open and minimally invasive surgery of the adrenal, thyroid and parathyroid glands.

Dr. Buicko earned an undergraduate degree in biology and participated as a scholar-athlete on the nationally ranked women’s lacrosse team at Johns Hopkins University. She went on to earn her medical degree at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, graduating with distinction as part of the Alpha Omega Alpha and Iron Arrow Honor Societies. She completed a general surgery residency at the University of Miami program at JFK Medical Center in Palm Beach County, where she served as chief resident and was named Resident of the Year. She then completed a fellowship in advanced endocrine and metabolic surgery at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She also received advanced training in breast surgical oncology and minimally invasive surgery, including both robotic and laparoscopic surgery.

Dr. Buicko is board certified by the American Board of Surgery. She has faculty appointments at both Florida Atlantic University and the University of Miami. She is widely published in peer-reviewed medical journals and is the author of numerous book chapters and a surgical handbook. She is a member of several professional societies, including the American College of Surgeons and the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons.

“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Buicko to our highly skilled team of experts,” said Bert Mosley, director of Physician Practice Operations at Bethesda Health Physician Group. “She is the only fellowship-trained endocrine surgeon in Palm Beach County, and we are proud to offer this level of expertise to our patients with endocrine diseases.”

Dr. Buicko is affiliated with Bethesda Hospital East and will see patients in her office, General and Vascular Surgery Specialists, located at 2800 S. Seacrest Blvd., Suite 200, in Boynton Beach.

About Bethesda Hospital East
Bethesda Hospital East is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 11 hospitals, nearly 23,000 employees, more than 4,000 physicians and more than 100 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn.

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Douglas Inciarte, M.D., named director of Family Medicine Residency Program at West Kendall Baptist Hospital

Dr. Inciarte HeadshotMIAMI ― November 20, 2019 ― Family medicine physician Douglas Inciarte, M.D., has been named program director of the West Kendall Baptist Hospital – Florida International University Family Medicine Residency program. The program prepares clinically skilled physicians to work in the full spectrum of family medicine, including the management of acute and chronic conditions in adults and children, women’s health, sports medicine, health promotion and disease prevention in settings ranging from the emergency room to the home. The program is based in the Baptist Health Primary Care Family Medicine Center adjacent to West Kendall Baptist Hospital.

Dr. Inciarte comes to Baptist Health South Florida from the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), where he served as the family medicine clinic director and was associate professor of family medicine. A graduate of the medical school of Universidad del Zulia, Venezuela, Dr. Inciarte completed a family medicine residency at UNMC, where he also served as chief resident. In addition, he holds a master’s degree in medical management from The Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy at Carnegie Mellon University.

In his years as a family medicine physician and clinic director in Nebraska, Dr. Inciarte received many honors and served on numerous professional strategic and leadership committees. He was named Department of Family Medicine House Officer of the Year and Department of Family Medicine Resident Teacher of the Year. He chaired the Ambulatory Quality Committee, the Nebraska Medicine’s Medical Directors Meetings, the Scientific Affairs Committee of the Nebraska Academy of Family Physicians and was co-chair of the Primary Care Clinical Program Growth and Innovation Group. He was also an active member of the Clinical Integration Committee, the Value-Based Physician Advisory Committee, the Nebraska Medicine Ambulatory Executive Committee, the Nebraska Medicine Value Domain Strategic Steering Committee, the Primary Care Quality and Outcomes Committee and others.

Since 2011, Dr. Inciarte served as the director for the UNMC College of Medicine’s clerkship program and has been a preceptor for medical students and nurse practitioners. He has been published in numerous medical journals and authored and served as editor of medical textbook chapters and sections. He is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Association for Physician Leadership.

“The role of the family physician in improving the health of our community has become even more crucial in recent years,” said Agueda Hernandez, M.D., former family medicine residency program director and chief medical officer for the Baptist Health Center for the Advancement of Learning. “Dr. Inciarte brings the experience necessary to continue to deepen our program and prepare our residents to care for our diverse population.”

As program director of the West Kendall Baptist Hospital – Florida International University Family Medicine Residency, he will oversee all aspects of the continued training of residents. The program, established in 2012, attracts nearly 2,000 applicants each year for a class of four residents.

“With Dr. Inciarte on board, the Family Medicine Residency program will continue to foster an innovative and compassionate teaching environment with a rigorous educational program that places its emphasis on the family as a whole,” said Javier Hernandez-Lichtl, CEO of West Kendall Baptist Hospital and corporate chief academic officer.

The program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and has a cohort of 12 residents.

“With his extensive background in both family medicine and in teaching young doctors, Dr. Inciarte will be instrumental in ensuring that the next generation of physicians will make lasting contributions at Baptist Health and in the South Florida community,” said Bernie Fernandez Jr., M.D., chief executive officer of Baptist Health Medical Group.

About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 11 hospitals, nearly 23,000 employees, more than 4,000 physicians and more than 100 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn.

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Baptist Health South Florida names Javier Hernández-Lichtl CEO of Doctors Hospital and Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute

javier-hernandez-lichtlCoral Gables, Fla. – November 18, 2019 — Javier Hernández-Lichtl has been named Chief Executive Officer of Doctors Hospital and Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute. The seasoned healthcare leader currently serves as CEO of West Kendall Baptist Hospital. He will succeed Nelson Lazo, who has been named CEO of Baptist Health’s Bethesda Hospital East and Bethesda Hospital West. Both leaders will assume their respective new roles on December 2, and will work together on Baptist Health’s sports partnerships. Hernández-Lichtl will continue to serve as Chief Academic Officer for Baptist Health, leading the Center for Advancement of Learning including all nursing, pharmacy, allied health and Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs.

“Sheldon Anderson, Vice Chairman of the Doctors Hospital Board of Directors, and I are pleased to announce the appointment of Javier Hernández-Lichtl as the CEO of Doctors Hospital and Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute,” said Bo Boulenger, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Baptist Health South Florida. “Javier is a dynamic leader who is passionate about serving our patients and community.”

Anderson added, “We are thrilled to have Javier join our team. He brings a wealth of experience in leading effective teams and driving innovation to deliver exceptional care, gained from more than 30 years with Baptist Health.”

Almost a decade ago, Hernández-Lichtl assembled and led the team that opened West Kendall Baptist Hospital, Miami-Dade County’s first new hospital in more than 35 years. Under his leadership, the hospital has become both a community hub and a center for innovation earning national accolades for quality, safety and service.  West Kendall Baptist Hospital also has the distinction of being the first academic medical facility in the Baptist Health system, closely linked with Florida International University’s Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. West Kendall Baptist Hospital also achieved the prestigious National Magnet Designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), becoming one of the fastest new hospitals to achieve this prestigious designation.

Hernández-Lichtl began his career with Baptist Health as an administrative resident. In addition to his leadership at West Kendall Baptist Hospital, he has also served as CEO of Baptist Outpatient Services and Baptist Health Enterprises, Chief Administrative Officer of Baptist Health and CEO of South Miami Hospital.

Hernández-Lichtl’s dedication to the South Florida community extends beyond healthcare delivery to the education and the arts. He currently serves on the Board of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce and Florida International University’s Frost Art Museum. He previously served on the United Way of Miami-Dade Board, the American Hospital Association Regional Policy Board and the Adrienne Arsht Center Board. In addition, he chaired the Florida Sterling Council and Miami International University of Art & Design Board.

Hernández-Lichtl is a member of Leadership Miami’s Class XXIII and a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. Among his numerous accolades are the Good Scout Award from the Boy Scouts of America, the Power Leader of the Year Award from Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, Humanitarian of the Year from the March of Dimes and one of the Top 50 Most Influential Hispanics in the U.S. from Hispanic Business Magazine.

About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 11 hospitals, nearly 23,000 employees, more than 4,000 physicians and more than 100 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn.

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First community-wide “Dribble Drive Against Cancer” takes to the streets to benefit Miami Cancer Institute

For downloadable photos, BRoll and SOTs, click here

MIAMI November 16, 2019 — Miami HEAT fans, cancer survivors, novice and experienced dribblers and others who want to make a difference in the fight against cancer took to the streets of Miami today in an event like no other:  The first-ever community-wide “Dribble Drive Against Cancer”.

Today’s fundraiser – presented by Miccosukee Resort & Gaming – marked the culmination of this year’s “HEAT.HELP.CURE.” initiative, representing, “Join the HEAT. You can HELP. Find a CURE.” Three leading South Florida organizations – the Miami HEAT, Baptist Health’s Miami Cancer Institute and Entercom – are in year two of the distinct philanthropic partnership.

“HEAT.HELP.CURE. is about our community coming together as a team in the fight against cancer,” said Baptist Health’s Executive VP and Chief Administrative Officer Joe Natoli. “It’s us versus cancer.”

Novice and experienced dribblers alike today raised funds for the cause by dribbling a basketball at their own pace on three different routes:

  • The Dribble Drive Challenge, 13.8 miles from Miami Cancer Institute to AmericanAirlines Arena
  • The Dribble Drive, 3.3 miles from Vizcaya Village to the arena
  • The Dribble Drive Dash, around the perimeter of the arena

Dribble Drive Challenge (13.8-mile) participants received a signature “pineapple” basketball autographed by Bam Adebayo and a photo at the arena with HEAT legend Glen Rice. Dribble Drive (3.3-mile) participants received two free tickets to a Miami HEAT game.

Five participating Entercom stations — Power 96 (WPOW-FM), 101.5 LITE FM (WLYF-FM), 102.7 The Beach (WMXJ-FM), AM 790 The Ticket (WAXY-AM) and 104.3 The Shark (WSFS-FM) – joined the community in the Dribble Drive. Kicked off by AM 790 The Ticket midday show co-host and Miami HEAT reporter Jonathon Zaslow, the Dribble Drive featured station talent dribbling from Miami Cancer Institute to AmericanAirlines Arena, with listeners encouraged to join them and donate along the way.

The same lineup of stations participated November 13 in the second annual “HEAT.HELP.CURE. Radiothon,” broadcasting live from the plaza at AmericanAirlines Arena.  During the 13-hour event, listeners made phone and online donations to benefit Miami Cancer Institute. The radiothon featured interviews with Miami HEAT Head Coach Erik Spoelstra, HEAT legends who have been affected by cancer, coaches, patients who have been treated at Miami Cancer institute, and physicians who provide expert, compassionate care to those patients.

The tipoff of HEAT.HELP.CURE. was the Miami HEAT’s “Red, White & Pink Game,” an open scrimmage October 6 at AmericanAirlines Arena with ticket sales benefiting the cause.

The combined events within the HEAT.HELP.CURE. initiative raised more than $576,881 to benefit groundbreaking cancer research at Miami Cancer Institute, which opened in 2017 and now cares for more than 1,000 patients daily.

“Every day, cancer researchers and physicians at Miami Cancer Institute work tirelessly to build a world without cancer,” said the Institute’s CEO and Executive Medical Director Michael Zinner, M.D. “Our community can make a genuine impact through this significant partnership.”

Generous sponsors of HEAT.HELP.CURE. include American Airlines, Anidjar & Levine, Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs, Brightline, Carnival Foundation, Catholic Health Services, Clear Channel Outdoor, Entercom, FedEx, Florida Blue, Florida Power & Light, Healthgrades, Media Counselors, Miami-Dade Ambulance Service, Miami HEAT, Miami Herald/el Nuevo Herald, Miccosukee Resort & Gaming, Misfits Gaming, Perry Ellis International, Republica Havas, Team FootWorks, UBER and Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.

HEAT.HELP.CURE. supporters include Bermello Ajamil & Partners, The Box Advertising, Carlton Fields, Freebee, Greenberg Traurig, Microsoft, Ultimate Software, Wizard Creations and Wolfe Pincavage.

For more information about HEAT.HELP.CURE. and to make a difference, visit HEATHELPCURE.org.

About Miami Cancer Institute
Miami Cancer Institute brings to South Florida access to personalized clinical treatments and comprehensive support services delivered with unparalleled compassion. No other cancer program in the region has the combination of cancer-fighting expertise and advanced technology—including the first proton therapy center in South Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean, and one of the only radiation oncology program in the world with each of the newest radiation therapies in one place—to diagnose and deliver precise cancer treatments that achieve the best outcomes and improve the lives of cancer patients. The Institute offers an impressive roster of established community oncologists and renowned experts, clinical researchers and genomic scientists recruited from the nation’s top cancer centers. Selected as Florida’s only member of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer (MSK) Alliance, Miami Cancer Institute is part of a meaningful clinical collaboration that affords patients in South Florida access to innovative treatments and ensures that the standards of care developed by their multidisciplinary disease management teams match those at MSK.

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Bethesda Hospital names Tracy Edelstein, DNP, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer

Tracy Edelstein HeadshotBOYNTON BEACH, FL – November 14, 2019 — Tracy Edelstein, DNP, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, has been named vice president and chief nursing officer of Bethesda Hospital. In this role, she will lead the hospital’s nursing division and collaborate with the administrative team to execute the nursing strategic plan. She will also direct the Bethesda College of Health Sciences, which offers programs to prepare competent and caring health professionals by bridging the gap between education and clinical practice.

Dr. Edelstein brings more than 20 years of nursing experience to this leadership position. Most recently, she served as associate vice president of nursing services and interim regional chief nursing officer for Geisinger Health System in Scranton, PA. She also has extensive teaching experience, serving as an adjunct professor of nursing at Carlow University in Pittsburgh, PA.

“Tracy is a passionate and dynamic nurse leader who is committed to delivering high-quality care that enhances patient outcomes,” said Roger L. Kirk, FACHE, chief executive officer of Bethesda Hospital. “Our patients and families, nurses and hospital team will benefit greatly from her exceptional clinical, mentoring and leadership skills.”

Dr. Edelstein earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Nutrition Science from Syracuse University in New York, a Master of Science in Nursing from Pace University in New York City and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Carlow University.

About Bethesda Hospital
Bethesda Hospital East and Bethesda Hospital West are part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 11 hospitals, nearly 23,000 employees, more than 4,000 physicians and more than 100 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn.

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Baptist Health Medical Group welcomes general surgeon Wilmer Mata, M.D.

Dr. Mata Headshot

MIAMI – November 12, 2019 — General surgeon Wilmer Mata, M.D., has joined Baptist Health Medical Group, a network of primary care doctors and specialists who provide high-quality medical care to patients of all ages. Dr. Mata treats a broad range of conditions that commonly require surgery, including appendicitis, hernias, gallbladder, stomach and intestinal issues. He has unique training and expertise in minimally invasive surgical procedures that result in reduced pain and faster recovery times for patients.

Dr. Mata earned his medical degree at Universidad de Carabobo School of Medicine in Valencia, Venezuela. He completed a residency in general surgery at St. Vincent Indianapolis in Indianapolis, Ind., where he served as chief resident. He also completed research and clinical fellowships in minimally invasive surgery at Jackson South Community Hospital in Miami, Fla. Dr. Mata has conducted clinical research on robotic surgery techniques and published his findings in peer-reviewed medical journals.

“Dr. Mata is an outstanding addition to our multidisciplinary team of specialists at Baptist Health Medical Group,” said Bernie Fernandez Jr., M.D., chief executive officer of Baptist Health Medical Group. “Our patients will benefit from his vast knowledge of diseases requiring team-based interdisciplinary care, his outstanding surgical technique and his compassionate bedside manner.”

Dr. Mata is affiliated with Baptist Hospital, Doctors Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital and will see patients at two Miami locations: 8950 North Kendall Drive, Suite 601W; and 15955 SW 96 Street, Suite 102.

About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 11 hospitals, nearly 23,000 employees, more than 4,000 physicians and more than 100 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn.

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Medical Director of Radiation Oncology at Miami Cancer Institute to Attend November Clinic at The Cancer Centre Bahamas

MIAMI – November 12, 2019 – Marcio Fagundes, M.D., medical director of radiation oncology at Miami Cancer Institute, will attend the Radiation Oncology Specialists Clinic to be held November 22nd at The Cancer Centre Bahamas. The clinic is organized by Baptist Health International and Miami Cancer Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida, in collaboration with The Cancer Centre Bahamas.

A world-renowned, Board-certified expert in radiation oncology, Dr. Fagundes pioneered the use of rectal spacer hydrogel and was one of the first physicians in the United States trained to utilize the gel to lessen the side effects of radiation and improve the outcomes of prostate cancer patients. He has also conducted significant research in the field of proton therapy, the most advanced form of radiation oncology treatment available today.

The Radiation Oncology Specialists Clinic will facilitate consultations for any patients potentially benefiting from the latest technology platforms, including TrueBeam, CyberKnife M6, Radixact, Gamma Knife Icon, Viewray MRIdian Linac, and Proton Beam Therapy at Miami Cancer Institute – the first proton therapy center in South Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean.

“Miami Cancer Institute has built a multidisciplinary radiation oncology department, comprised of world-renowned experts and state-of-the-art technology,” said Dr. Minesh Mehta, chief of radiation oncology. The Institute features a robust roster of nationally and internationally recognized physicians and scientists who collectively have over 25 years of proton therapy experience. “Access to these resources will help patients and doctors in the Bahamas make better-informed decisions regarding their medical care in the fight against cancer,” said Dr. Mehta.

The Radiation Oncology Specialists Clinic will continue to be held every three to six weeks and will feature radiation oncologists from Miami Cancer Institute specializing in the treatment of prostate, breast, gynecological, gastrointestinal and head and neck cancers.

In addition to Drs. Mehta and Fagundes, other Miami Cancer Institute physicians who will be on rotation include Drs. Michael Chuong, Jessika Contreras, Noah Kalman, and Joseph Panoff.

To schedule an appointment or for more information on how to begin the case evaluation process, please  contact The Cancer Centre Bahamas at 242-502-9610.

About Miami Cancer Institute
Miami Cancer Institute brings to South Florida access to personalized clinical treatments and comprehensive support services delivered with unparalleled compassion. No other cancer program in the region has the combination of cancer-fighting expertise and advanced technology—including the first proton therapy center in South Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean, and one of the only radiation oncology program in the world with each of the newest radiation therapies in one place— to diagnose and deliver precise cancer treatments that achieve the best outcomes and improve the lives of cancer patients. The Institute offers an impressive roster of established community oncologists and renowned experts, clinical researchers and genomic scientists recruited from the nation’s top cancer centers. Selected as Florida’s only member of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer (MSK) Alliance, Miami Cancer Institute is part of a meaningful clinical collaboration that affords patients in South Florida access to innovative treatments and ensures that the standards of care developed by their multidisciplinary disease management teams match those at MSK.

Miami Cancer Institute is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 11 hospitals, nearly 23,000 employees, more than 4,000 physicians and more than 100 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to its faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on FacebookInstagramTwitter and LinkedIn.

About Baptist Health International
Baptist Health International is one of the largest hospital-based international programs in the United States, with more than 12,000 international patient visits at Baptist Health South Florida facilities from the Florida Keys to Palm Beach County. Baptist Health International is dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality services for international physicians and their patients, including hospital admissions, outpatient medical exams, medical second opinions and physician consultations, as well as concierge services.

About The Cancer Centre Bahamas
The Cancer Centre Bahamas is among the leading comprehensive cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment centres in the English-speaking Caribbean. The centre is the only one of its kind in this hemisphere and now the only accredited American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO) Centre outside the United States and North America. It is the only one to house the entire medical, pediatric, surgical and radiation oncology staff under one roof with all supporting areas and state-of-the-art equipment. Located within The Medical Pavilion Bahamas, The Cancer Centre Bahamas is a private, non-government facility, which enables it to move speedily to adapt to new technology, equipment and personnel, thereby keeping it on the leading and cutting edge of cancer care. Housed in a new $12 million facility, with a brand-new Medical Oncology Division and its own Chemotherapy Infusion Centre which functions as a Day-Hospital

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Neurologist Svetlana Faktorovich M.D. joins Marcus Neuroscience Institute

Dr. Faktorovich HeadshotBOCA RATON, FL – November 11, 2019 – The BocaCare® Physician Network, a network of primary care doctors and specialists who provide high-quality medical care to patients of all ages, has added neurologist Svetlana Faktorovich, M.D., to the medical staff of Boca Raton Regional Hospital. She specializes in general neurology as well as neuromuscular medicine, diagnosing and treating a wide range of disorders affecting the peripheral nervous system. These include but are not limited to myasthenia gravis, cervical and lumbar radiculopathy, plexopathy, peripheral neuropathy and myopathy. Her expertise also includes electromyography/nerve conduction testing, skin biopsy for the diagnosis of small fiber neuropathy and the use of botulinum toxin for the treatment of various neurological ailments including disorders of muscle tone and migraines.

Dr. Faktorovich is board certified in neurology. She completed her undergraduate studies at Stony Brook University in New York and also received a Master of Arts in Medical Sciences from Boston University School of Medicine. Dr. Faktorovich earned her medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Mass. Her postgraduate training included a residency program in neurology and a fellowship in clinical neurophysiology with a focus in neuromuscular medicine, both at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, N.Y.

She is fluent in English and Russian.

“Dr. Faktorovich is a great complement to our team of eight neurologists,” said Patricio Espinosa, M.D., Chief of Neurology at the Marcus Neuroscience Institute. “Her appointment represents the continued growth of our institute and increase in our capabilities.”

Dr. Faktorovich is affiliated with the Marcus Neuroscience Institute and will see patients at 800 Meadows Road in Boca Raton.

About the Marcus Neuroscience Institute
The Marcus Neuroscience Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital is an innovative nexus for neurologic and neurosurgical care. The 57,000-square-foot facility houses a 20-bed Neuro Intensive Care and Step-Down Unit, four dedicated operating rooms — including one equipped with intraoperative MRI and two with intraoperative CT capability — and a biplane angiography suite, a crucial component in the diagnosis and care of neurological conditions. The Institute has a staff of five neurosurgeons and eight neurologists who represent some of the most respected clinicians in their fields and is affiliated with Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine.

About Boca Raton Regional Hospital
Boca Raton Regional Hospital is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 11 hospitals, nearly 23,000 employees, more than 4,000 physicians and more than 100 outpatient centers, urgent care facilities and physician practices spanning across Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Baptist Health has internationally renowned centers of excellence in cancer, cardiovascular care, orthopedics and sports medicine, and neurosciences. In addition, it includes Baptist Health Medical Group; Baptist Health Quality Network; and Baptist Health Care On Demand, a virtual health platform. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Newsroom and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

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