Hospital CEO recounts Hispanic roots, career and giving back to homeland

AdventHealth está celebrando el Mes de la Herencia Hispana con historias inspiradoras de los miembros de nuestro equipo a la luz del tema de este año, "Unidos: Inclusión Para una Nación Más Fuerte.” Comparten sobre sus experiencias personales y las contribuciones significativas que han hecho para sus comunidades.

AdventHealth is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by featuring inspiring stories of team members in light of this year’s theme, “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation.” They share about their personal journeys and significant contributions to their communities.

A heart of service, a mindset of perseverance and a deep connection to his Hispanic roots: these are the early foundations that continue to be essential for Dennis Hernandez, MD, president and CEO of AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach in the Central Florida Division.

Born in Puerto Rico and raised in the Dominican Republic, Dr. Hernandez said these foundations started at home and have been evident throughout his life and career. “Growing up, even when my parents did not have much, they always wanted to give to those who were in need,” he said.

“I always knew I wanted to be a physician,” he added. “My parents said ever since I could speak, I would say I wanted to be a doctor.” Dr. Hernandez recalled a time when he pretended to operate on his sister at just 5 years old. “I think that was God’s plan for me. I never struggled to make the decision. It was very natural for me.”

Dr. Hernandez served in pediatric emergency medicine for 25 years and has led the establishment of three pediatric emergency departments. In his current role, he continues to demonstrate his passion for service through AdventHealth Global Missions, a program that establishes long-term relationships with medical institutions around the world and provides opportunities for AdventHealth team members to extend Christ’s healing ministry beyond the U.S.

"I don’t think of my life in significant moments, but rather seeing that I’ve focused one day at a time on my work and what God puts in front of me."

Dr. Hernandez said he deeply values the opportunity to impact his homeland through his role as an executive sponsor for the AdventHealth Global Missions partnership with Centro Médico Vista del Jardín in the Dominican Republic. “I have lived in the Dominican Republic and felt a part of the people,” he said. “I love them, and there’s nothing better than being able to help your own.”

The partnership with Centro Médico Vista del Jardín has led to the provision of much-needed medical equipment and supplies, including a CT scanner, beds and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Thinking back to the foundations that have anchored and shaped his character, Dr. Hernandez said he is doing his best to pass the lessons on to his children. “My wife and I are raising our kids to know that if you set your mind to do something, the goal is reachable, even if you have to work twice as hard as someone else,” Dr. Hernandez said. He instills the value of service and giving back in his children through mission trips, and connects his children to their Hispanic heritage by teaching them about their family history and how to speak Spanish.

Looking back on his career, Dr. Hernandez said he is humbled and grateful for the opportunities to serve others and make an impact. “I never thought a young boy like me would have the opportunity and honor to serve others in this capacity through AdventHealth,” he said. “I have the opportunity to make a positive impact all the way back to my roots.”

Dr. Hernandez said he believes he has been able to achieve this by following God’s leading and staying close to his foundations of service, perseverance and heritage. “I don’t think of my life in significant moments, but rather seeing that I’ve focused one day at a time on my work and what God puts in front of me,” he said. “I make sure I put in intentional focus, work hard, stay humble and let God lead the way.”

Dr. Hernandez looks forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the local New Smyrna Beach community and through AdventHealth Global Missions international partnerships. As he looks ahead, he is hopeful for the future of health care and fulfilling AdventHealth’s mission to extend Christ’s healing ministry both here and abroad.

“I just want to do the work and hopefully have a positive impact,” he said. “I want to give our communities the best opportunity to receive the best care.”