NEW ORLEANS — Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans announces Dr. Brian Cruz as the new medical director of Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly in Greater New Orleans.
Cruz, who grew up in Omaha, Neb., received a bachelors of science degree from Notre Dame University. After a year of volunteer service with the Vincentian Service Corps in New York City and then teaching science for three years at St. Jean Baptiste High School in Manhattan, he attended medical school at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.
He arrived in New Orleans more than 10 years ago to complete a residency in internal medicine at Tulane Medical Center. Before joining PACE GNO, Cruz worked at Ochsner Health in primary care and palliative medicine.
Cruz appreciates the similarities between Omaha and his adopted hometown, where the quality of life in both revolves around family and friends. He quickly adapted to some of the city’s favorite traditions, including enjoying red beans and rice potluck with friends on Mondays and fully enjoying Mardi Gras. He, his wife and three children participated in the Krewe of House Floats this past carnival season.
As medical director of PACE, Cruz oversees a comprehensive healthcare program that provides clients with access to physician care, medications, rehabilitative therapy and other services to manage their health. He is excited to work with a program that provides a holistic approach to care for people with multiple medical conditions.
“I am very grateful to be at PACE with committed and passionate colleagues as we work together to promote the health and wellbeing of our participants,” said Cruz. “We meet every morning to discuss what is going on with participants so the whole team is aware and can offer thoughts and ideas.”
PACE GNO operates Adult Day Health Centers in New Orleans and on the Westbank, where participants receive medical care, nutritional counseling, rehab programs, social services, pastoral care and transportation services. Anyone 55 years or older in the Greater New Orleans interested in qualifying for PACE can find out more information at https://pacegno.org/qualify/
