Biography
Co-CEO, The Permanente Federation, LLC; Executive Medical Director and Chairman of the Board, Southern California Permanente Medical Group; Chairman of the Board and CEO, The Southeast Permanente Medical Group; Chairman and CEO, Hawaii Permanente Medical Group
Q&A
What inspires you in your work?
My patients and my colleagues are my inspiration. I have an intense desire to have a positive impact on the lives of people. My work with the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine as well as my work with the Permanente Medical Groups creates endless opportunities for me to do just that.
What life experience has taught or changed you the most?
Immigrating to the U.S. in 1979 and having a second chance in life in this land of opportunity was an absolutely profound experience. My gratitude continues to this day.
What’s your first health-related memory?
When I was nine years old, I remember getting penicillin shots for rheumatic fever. Not a “fun” memory, but it was an example of medicine in action.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I was offered a scholarship to play soccer at a D1 college but I turned it down to be a pre-med student at UC Irvine. My feet aren’t as quick as they used to be, but I still love the game.