Today we’d like to introduce you to Paola Gonzalez
Hi Paola, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Paola Gonzalez MPAS, PA-C, I believe I am a trailblazing healthcare leader whose journey from a first-generation immigrant to a bilingual clinical provider reflects my unwavering dedication to improving healthcare access and outcomes for underserved communities. Arriving in the United States from Colombia at age 9, I faced significant challenges, including language barriers and cultural adjustments. Raised in a multigenerational Latino household with limited financial resources, I was determined to overcome these obstacles and make a difference in my community.
Witnessing firsthand the health disparities faced by Latino populations, I resolved to pursue a career in healthcare. Despite the difficulties of navigating college applications and financial constraints, I persevered, fueled by a passion to address the health needs of my community. My path to becoming a Physician Assistant was marked by hard work and resilience, balancing full-time employment with academic commitments.
My career spans over 20 years in diverse clinical settings, including primary care, occupational medicine, and various subspecialties within oncology. My extensive experience with Latino populations has equipped me with a deep understanding of the cultural, educational, and language barriers that impact healthcare delivery. This insight has shaped my approach to patient care, emphasizing the importance of addressing social determinants of health and advocating for comprehensive, culturally sensitive care.
In 2020, I found renewed purpose by joining PAs for Latino Health (PALH), where I emerged as a leader advocating for greater diversity and equity in healthcare. Through my involvement with PALH, I actively worked to highlight healthcare disparities, promote Latino representation in the PA profession, and empower communities facing diminished resources. Thru that work I was awarded the 2024 National Hispanic Health Foundation (NHHF) Award of the year in recognition for the years of collaboration with NHMA and NHHF Programs, including the NHHF Scholarship Programs and for my leadership in improving the health of Hispanics. I was also the recipient of the 2024 AAPA Diversity Award which recognizes a PA that serves as a champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the PA profession and/or the patient population or community that they serve.
Currently, I serve as the Director at Large for the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) and am the immediate past President of PALH. I am a member of multiple professional organizations, including the National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives. I am engaged in mentoring future healthcare providers and promote medical Spanish as a crucial tool for effective communication.
My educational background includes a Bachelor of Physician Assistant Studies from Touro College and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. My commitment to healthcare excellence and advocacy continues to inspire and drive meaningful change in both clinical practice and healthcare policy.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Raised in a multigenerational Latino household with seven family members living in a small 1,100 square-foot home on a single income, I experienced firsthand the financial and emotional challenges of growing up in a low-income environment. The language barrier and cultural shock compounded these struggles, creating obstacles in my pursuit of education and career goals.
Despite these difficulties, my determination to overcome my circumstances drove me harder to pursue a career in healthcare. Without the benefit of a college fund or family guidance in navigating the complex college application and financial aid processes, I faced these challenges largely on my own. My perseverance was further tested while trying to work full time and pay my loans down while providing quality health care.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
What do you do?
I am a highly motivated, bilingual Physician Associate/Assistant (Asociado Medico) with over 20 years of experience in diverse clinical and administrative settings, including hospitals, medical practices, and private settings.
PAs are trained to diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, perform medical procedures, and manage patient care across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They conduct physical exams, interpret diagnostic tests, and educate patients about their health. PAs complete a master’s degree in physician assistant studies and must pass a national certification exam and obtain state licensure. They play a crucial role in expanding access to medical care and working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.
Currently, I work at MD Anderson Cancer Center as an APP Peer to Peer Team Specialist, where I provide clinical care in Breast Medical Oncology and manage administrative tasks to enhance patient care and financial outcomes. Within MD Anderson I have previously worked in Surgical Oncology, Radiation Oncology and Endocrine Oncology. Prior to that I worked in NY in Family and Occupational Medicine. Additionally, I hold leadership roles in various organizations, including serving as Director at Large for the American Academy of Physician Associates Board of Directors and previously as President of Physician Associates for Latino Health (PALH).
What do you specialize in?
I specialize in managing and improving healthcare services within oncology, particularly in breast cancer, while also focusing on increasing healthcare access and addressing disparities among Latino and underserved communities. My expertise extends to financial management in healthcare, mentorship, and advocacy for diversity and inclusion within the PA profession.
What are you known for?
I am known for my strong leadership in both clinical and organizational settings, with a track record of improving patient care and operational efficiency. I am recognized for my advocacy in advancing diversity and inclusion in the PA profession and for spearheading initiatives to address healthcare disparities. I am also acknowledged for my innovative approaches to integrating digital technologies in healthcare and for mentoring the next generation of PAs. My drive to provide compassionate care in the Houston area and beyond by working with community leaders is what fills my professional cup.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my efforts to create and expand the Pre-PA Mentorship program through PALH, which has increased the number of Latino PA students and fostered greater diversity within the profession. Receiving the 2024 AAPA Diversity Award and the National Hispanic Health Foundation Award of the Year for my contributions to healthcare and diversity are also significant highlights of my career.
What sets you apart from others?
What sets me apart is my unique combination of personal experience as a first-generation immigrant, extensive clinical and leadership experience, and a passionate commitment to improving healthcare access and reducing disparities. My ability to bridge gaps between diverse communities and healthcare systems, coupled with my proactive approach to advocacy and education, enables me to drive meaningful change in both patient care and professional practice.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The most important quality to my success is my deep empathy rooted in my experience as a first-generation immigrant and minority. Growing up navigating the challenges of language barriers and cultural differences, I have a personal understanding of the obstacles faced by underserved communities. This background fuels my passion for advocating for those who are often overlooked in the healthcare system. My commitment to improving access to care and addressing health disparities stems from my desire to ensure that others, like my family and myself, receive the care and support they deserve. This perspective drives my work, inspiring me to create meaningful change and advocate for equitable healthcare for all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://palh.mypanetwork.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/paola_gonzalez_pa_c
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Nonprofit-Organization/Physician-Assistants-for-Latino-Health-PALH-122423641128156/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Asociado_medico
- Other: https://linktr.ee/paolagonzalezpac
Image Credits
Sage + Willow Photography for my main profile picture with the pink jacket. I have rights to share the picture.
