Gonzalez: Physicians working as a team (original) (raw)

Staff Reports

Dr. Jorge Gonzalez was nominated for Physician of the Year a couple of years ago. Since that nomination, he has become the chief medical officer at HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital.

The nomination that led to Gonzalez’s honor told about mission trips he participated in from the Dominican Republic to Iquitos, Peru. One trip where he specifically took the lead role over a team of 12 to include physicians and nurses to Barra Del Colorado, Costa Rica where they administered care to 371 delta region people. “These were people who have little health care access and any specialty care needs is a two-hour boat trip down river.”

The following year, Gonzalez again led a team of 12 back to Barra Del Colorado, Costa Rica. This time, they treated 380 patients.

During this particular trip, Gonzalez was invited to Lima and Siquirres, Costa Rica to tour the local hospitals. There, he saw an enormous need for surgical services. Some patients, the nomination stated, were on a three-year waiting list for elective surgeries due to lack of surgeons in the area. It was then that Gonzalez planned a surgical mission trip of 11 members, three being surgeons, for later that year. Together, they performed 100 surgeries in just four days.

Dottie Robinett nominated Gonzalez for the award and said, “As you can see, Dr. Gonzalez’s love for our mission, ‘Extending the healing ministry of Christ,’ is truly seen in his mission work.” At the time, Gonzalez was on staff at what is now AdventHealth Sebring, having served there as chief medical officer for eight years.

Of the trips to Costa Rica and Peru, Gonzalez said once they reached the villages, they would typically use a local school as clinic space, bringing medications and setting up a pharmacy.

“During these missions, we frequently encountered parasitic infections, skin conditions, and cataracts. Our teams included doctors from both the United States and the local country, working in collaboration with local physicians.

“In many countries, particularly in remote rural areas, there is a significant need for healthcare. Collaborating on these missions enhances our relationships and communication, fostering a deeper connection beyond professional settings.

“It is profoundly rewarding to have the opportunity to share your expertise and make a difference in the lives of those in need,” he said.

Gonzalez has been a physician for 37 years, of which 24 of those years were in private practice in Sebring.

In 2019 he went to what was previously called St. Lucie Medical Center, now HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital, as the chief medical officer. Simultaneously for three years, he also served as the chief medical officer at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital.

Gonzalez said, “The most rewarding aspects of my job are twofold. As a physician, it’s fulfilling to tailor treatments to each patient, not only to help them feel better but also to extend their lifespan. In my role as a CMO, I have the opportunity to enhance the quality and safety of care provided to patient populations.”

As chief medical officer, the most difficult part of his job has been implementing a new change or process within the hospital setting.

When not wearing his white lab coat or a stethoscope around his neck, Gonzalez loves to spend time out on his boat fishing.

He and his wife, Melissa, have been married for 15 years. Together they have four children: Catherine, Jorge, Victoria, and Jordan.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to have been chosen for this award by Highlands County. It is incredibly meaningful to know that the people of Highlands County have recognized my efforts and commitment to the healthcare and well-being of our community,” Gonzalez said.