During Hispanic Heritage Month, Mercy Health recognizes Claudio Linares, MD.
“I feel very proud to see many immigrants become successful members of society, even though we have to adapt to a new way of life in a different culture and country,” Claudio Linares, MD, an OB-GYN at Mercy Health – Navarre Obstetrics and Gynecology, shares.
Dr. Linares shares that, to him, Hispanic Heritage Month is all about pride, hard work and adaptation.
“We, as members of this society, have made contributions to this community,” he says. “This is from being doctors to being the most essential of workers, such as farmers and hospital workers.”
Having personally faced the disparity of health care provided to immigrant and underserved communities, Dr. Linares was determined to become a physician who cares for all people.
When Dr. Linares was 12 years old, his older brother passed away, leaving him to care for his daughter.
“I took my niece to see a physician, but he refused to see her due to my family’s inability to pay for his services,” Dr. Linares recalls. “At that moment, I decided to become a physician so I could help all people, especially those who are in similar impoverished situations like my family.”
Today, Dr. Linares has served more than 30 years as a physician. This includes time he spent in the U.S. Air Force. He often receives great recognition for his work.
“My family is proud and happy that I can help people and receive recognition for my service to my community,” he adds.
Dr. Linares’ contributions are not limited to the care he gives, but also the inspiration he provides for future generations.
“Several of my patients have finished school and gone on to higher education, several of whom have become health care workers and doctors.”
As for the medical residents under his guidance, Dr. Linares strives to provide a good example for future physicians.
“I hope to impart a good work ethic and education to help make younger physicians better, with a heart full of compassion for all patients,” he shares.
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