Dr. Aristides Colón Peña’s Keynote Address at the UAG Premed Advisors Summit: Let’s Make Doctors 2024

As the UAG School of Medicine prepares to host its prestigious Premed Advisors Summit: Let’s Make Doctors in April 2024, one distinguished alumna stands out among the crowd, poised to share his invaluable insights and experiences with attendees. Dr. Aristides Colón Peña, a proud graduate of UAG, will take center stage to offer a glimpse into his remarkable journey from a student to an esteemed medical professional.

Dr. Colón Peña's journey in the field of medicine began with a solid foundation laid during his undergraduate years at the University of Puerto Rico, Cayey Campus, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in general sciences. His commitment to academic excellence was evident as he distinguished himself as a member of the Tri-Beta Honor Society, foreshadowing the remarkable trajectory ahead.

Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Colón Peña embarked on a transformative chapter in Guadalajara, Mexico, where he pursued his medical education at the UAG School of Medicine. Here, amidst the rich tapestry of culture and academia, he honed his skills and knowledge, graduating with distinction and setting the stage for his illustrious career in healthcare.

Armed with a passion for continuous learning and professional growth, Dr. Colón Peña pursued further studies, including an internship program at HIMA Hospital in Caguas, Puerto Rico, followed by a Family Medicine Residency Program at Dr. Pila Hospital/Ponce School of Medicine in Puerto Rico. These experiences not only enriched his clinical acumen but also instilled in him a deep sense of dedication to patient care and education.

Today, Dr. Colón Peña wears many hats, seamlessly balancing roles in clinical practice and academia. As an Associate Professor of Family Medicine, Ad Honorem, at the University of Health Sciences of Ponce, School of Medicine, he imparts his wealth of knowledge and experience to the next generation of medical professionals, shaping the future of healthcare.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. Colón Peña remains actively engaged in clinical practice, maintaining a private practice in family medicine with outpatient and adult hospital privileges. His commitment to medical education extends beyond borders, as he serves as the Director of the Academic Program for medical students at the UAG School of Medicine who rotate through the Cayey Mennonite Medical Center, facilitating high-quality education and training experiences.

Furthermore, Dr. Colón Peña holds the esteemed position of Designated Institutional Officer at Cayey Mennonite Medical Center, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping institutional policies and standards of medical education, ensuring excellence across all facets of healthcare delivery.

Dr. Colón Peña's dedication to advancing the field of family medicine is evident in his active participation in professional organizations, including his certification in Family Medicine by the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) and his membership in the American Academy of Family Physicians and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Puerto Rico.

Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, Dr. Colón Peña remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation, recently completing the Executive Program in Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare at the MIT Sloan School of Management. This achievement underscores his commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in healthcare technology, further enhancing his ability to deliver cutting-edge patient care.

Dr. Aristides Colón Peña epitomizes excellence in both education and practice in the field of family medicine. His unwavering dedication to patient care, coupled with his passion for teaching and mentorship, truly sets him apart as a leader in the medical community. As he takes the stage at the Premed Advisors Summit, Dr. Colón Peña's journey serves as an inspiration to all, reaffirming the transformative power of education and the profound impact of compassionate healthcare.