Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! From Sept. 15-Oct. 15 we are recognizing the role Hispanic board-certified anesthesiologists and residents practicing in the United States play in serving the specialty.
Learn more about our featured board-certified anesthesiologists below.
Interested in sharing your story on our website and social media? Contact us at coms@theaba.org.
Antonio Hernandez Conte, M.D., MBA, FASA
“Hispanic Heritage Month is important to me because we get to celebrate our presence in America as Hispanics/Latinos. Only 6% of physicians in the U.S. are Latino/Hispanic, so we still have much work to do to represent our communities and ensure culturally concordant care in all sectors.”
I am a cardiac anesthesiologist at the Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center. I have been board certified since 1996.
What would you like to share with us about your personal journey and experience?
I am from a very multicultural background, and my father is a 1st generation Mexican American from Texas. Growing up, we spoke three languages at home and really appreciate celebrating diverse cultural events and holidays, most especially National Hispanic Heritage Month. The U.S. population now encompasses 19% Latinos/Hispanics, and in California, it is even higher at 39%. Despite our growing presence, there are only 6% Latinos/Hispanics in medicine overall, including Anesthesiology.
Why do you value board certification?
ABA Certification is an important distinction that demonstrates quality and a commitment to lifelong learning. It is also an important differentiator from other physician extenders who work in the anesthesia sphere. Additionally, ABA certification is a foundation for building a professional reputation for excellence.
Why did you choose to pursue anesthesiology?
I pursued anesthesiology because it gives me the opportunity to work in a wide array of perioperative settings and be a patient safety advocate.
Why is Hispanic Heritage Month important?
Hispanic Heritage Month is important to me because we get to celebrate our presence in America as Hispanics/Latinos, as we make up 19% of the general population. Unfortunately, only 6% of physicians in the U.S. are Latino/Hispanic, so we still have much work to do to represent our communities and ensure culturally concordant care in all sectors.