Dr. Ismael Rodriquez is a doctor of geriatric medicine at UMC. Born in Puerto Rico, he sought to broaden his cultural horizons and career chances at an early age.
“My journey started back in what I call home, Puerto Rico. Very limited opportunities in terms of school,” Rodriquez said. “So I sort of knew I wanted to do something science related or medicine related very early on at the very young age of 15.”
Rodriquez had relatives in the U.S. and was allowed to move to more fully prepare for his future career plans.
“I took the move out of Puerto Rico and went with my uncles…so I could immerse myself in the culture and learn all the English I could, so I could go back home…go to college and pursue my dreams.
However, the experience of living in the U.S. changed his future plans, and choosing his field in geriatrics played a part in the change.
“I think that decision changed the direction of my life and my career, and I’m here because of it now…patient get more frail as they age, [so] we have to take into account multiple other aspects that are usually not taken by other doctors.” Rodriquez said.
He pointed out a major factor that contributed to his interest in geriatric medicine—by 2030, every member of the “baby boomer” generation will be 65 and over. So 22% of El Paso’s population will be considered geriatric members of the population.
Which is why Rodriquez said he feels he’s in the right place and time, and believes that UMC can meet the needs of that population.
“You need the ability to have all these components to deliver the best geriatric care possible—social workers, behavioral counselors…clinical pharmacists, [and] if they have any questions, occupational therapy, speech therapy, you name it. We offer it at UMC,” Rodriquez said.
“Doing what we do, I don’t take it for granted any day of the year. What we do is very important. And I feel blessed to be able to wake every day,” Rodriquez said. “To be able to help someone when they’re most vulnerable, when they have a lot of fears—makes it all worth it—all these years of studying and going to school, being able to…go to work and go home every day and know you’ve helped somebody [is] absolutely satisfying, and I don’t take it for granted.”
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