Doctors’ Day celebration recognizes

SOM and UT Health RGV physicians

GIF of staff members standing together smiling in front of a colorful “National Doctor Day” backdrops decorated with hearts, medical symbols, and EKG lines. One person in the center holds a tray of treats while three festive balloons float above them. The group is dressed in a mix of business-casual attire and scrubs, creating a celebratory, appreciative atmosphere.

The UTRGV School of Medicine and UT Health RGV celebrated National Doctors’ Day by sharing a small token of appreciation with physicians across the region.

Cookie cakes were delivered to UT Health RGV clinics and School of Medicine physicians in recognition of their dedication and service.

The celebration served as a sweet reminder of the compassion, expertise and commitment physicians bring to the communities of the Rio Grande Valley every day.

Thank you for all you do!

SOM faculty appointed by Governor Abbott to State Committee

A smiling man in glasses wearing a white coat over a red checkered shirt and blue tie. The coat has medical embroidery. Neutral, professional tone.

Dr. Brandon Cantazaro, chief medical officer of UT Health RGV and division chief of internal medicine at the UTRGV School of Medicine, has been appointed by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to the Correctional Managed Health Care Committee.

The committee oversees the development of statewide policies for health care delivery within the Texas correctional system.

Dr. Cantazaro, who also serves as an associate professor of internal medicine, will provide extensive clinical and leadership experience to this role.

His appointment reflects the continued impact of UTRGV School of Medicine faculty in shaping health care policy and advancing care at the state level.

Congratulations!

Medical students lead pediatric education efforts in RGV

Congratulations to UTRGV School of Medicine medical students Kevin Garcia Valdez (MS3) and Aun Bangash (MS3), who were recognized for their outstanding dedication to pediatric education and community service during their Pediatric Clerkship.

Garcia Valdez developed an educational poster on brain tumors in children, while Bangash created a resource highlighting American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for allergies, asthma and immunology.

The posters are now featured at Cute Pediatrics in Harlingen, providing accessible, patient-centered education to families in the community.

Their work reflects the School of Medicine's mission to improve health outcomes through education, service and meaningful community partnerships across the Rio Grande Valley.

Congratulations!

Sun Smart Leaders

A group of about a dozen students and healthcare trainees stand side by side in a bright, modern academic building, smiling at the camera. They wear a mix of scrubs and black polo shirts with logos, suggesting a coordinated program or team, with glass walls and study spaces visible behind them.

Members of the UTRGV School of Medicine Dermatology Student Interest Group recently visited the Harlingen School of Health Professions to share the importance of sun safety with local students through the Sun Smart Leaders program.

During the visit, medical students discussed ways to reduce the risk of skin cancer and offered practical summer safety tips for living in the Rio Grande Valley, including the importance of sunscreen, protective clothing and avoiding peak sun exposure.

Students at the school also had the opportunity to practice basic suturing techniques and ask questions about sun safety, skin health and what it’s like to pursue a career in medicine at UTRGV.

In the News:

Governor Abbott Appoints Four To Correctional Managed Health Care Committee

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A healthcare professional checks blood pressure using a cuff and gauge on a patient's arm. The close-up imaA healthcare professional checks blood pressure using a cuff and gauge on a patient's arm. The close-up image conveys a sense of care and precision.ge conveys a sense of care and precision.

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Development of a survey and worry score to evaluate physician burnout and wellness interventions during COVID-19 in the Rio Grande Valley: A pilot study