Mega Doctor News
By Roberto Hugo González
Edinburg, Texas — In a landmark moment for healthcare in the Rio Grande Valley, DHR Health has achieved dual national recognition as both a Center of Excellence in Lung Cancer Screening and a Center of Excellence in Lung Cancer Care by GO2 for Lung Cancer, a leading organization dedicated to improving outcomes and survival rates for patients facing lung cancer.
The announcement came during a World Lung Day celebration on September 25, honoring the exceptional teamwork and innovation that define DHR Health’s lung cancer program. Four physicians— each a leader in their field— were recognized for their combined expertise in detection, diagnosis, surgery, and oncology. Their integrated, multidisciplinary approach is transforming how lung cancer is treated in South Texas.
“These honors are reserved for hospitals that meet the nation’s highest standards in lung cancer care— from early CT screenings to coordinated, compassionate treatment,” said Marissa Castañeda, Senior Executive Vice President of DHR Health. “We are proud to be the only hospital in the region with both distinctions. This is a tribute to our physicians, nurses, and entire care team who save lives every single day.”
Castañeda highlighted that these recognitions are the direct result of team-based excellence— pulmonologists, radiologists, pathologists, oncologists, surgeons, nurses, and respiratory therapists all working in perfect sync. “Our team’s dedication is the heartbeat of our success,” she added. “Behind every cured patient, there’s a coordinated effort of brilliant minds and caring hands.”
Among the many lives touched by DHR Health’s program is Juan Camacho, 76, a lung cancer survivor who credits his life to the precision and teamwork of the DHR Health medical staff.
“I was diagnosed with lung cancer and cured in just 14 days,” Camacho said. “Dr. Vallejo performed a biopsy using the new Ion robotic bronchoscopy, and Dr. Reis performed robotic surgery to remove the tumor. Everything went perfectly. Their professionalism and care saved my life.”
Photo by Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
His wife, Carmen Camacho, added, “It takes a village to save a life. Every doctor, nurse, and staff member treated us like family. The compassion and expertise we experienced were truly five-star. We’ll be forever grateful.”
Innovation, Precision, and Teamwork. Dr. Federico Vallejo, Director of Pulmonary Medicine and a pioneer in robotic-assisted bronchoscopy, described the program’s evolution:
“Just a few years ago, our region lacked access to advanced diagnostic tools. DHR Health made a bold investment in technology and training so our patients could receive top tier care close to home. Today, we achieve a diagnostic success rate of about 96 percent on the first procedure— with minimal risk.”
Photo By Roberto Hugo González
Vallejo praised the addition of Dr. Victor Reis, Cardiothoracic Surgeon, whose expertise in robotic thoracic surgery has elevated the program to national standards.
“Dr. Reis’s surgical precision and the minimally invasive techniques he employs have revolutionized our outcomes,” Vallejo said. “Patients recover faster, experience less pain, and can return to normal life often within days.”
The team’s work is also supported by cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology. “Our Eon AI system scans imaging reports for potential lung nodules, even incidental ones,” Vallejo noted. “We’re the only program south of San Antonio using this platform— it ensures no early sign of cancer is ever missed.”
Photo By Roberto Hugo González
A Leap Forward in Surgical Care. Dr. Reis elaborated on how robotic-assisted lung surgery has transformed recovery and quality of life.
“Traditional lung surgeries once required large incisions and long hospital stays,” Reis explained. “Now, using advanced robotics and 3D visualization, we can perform highly precise surgeries through tiny incisions. Most patients go home in one to three days— and many resume normal activities within two weeks. This is more than an advance in technique; it’s an advance in humanity.”
Early Detection: The Key to Saving Lives. Dr. Samuel Serna, Medical Director of Radiology, stressed that technology alone isn’t enough— awareness and screening are critical.
Photo By Roberto Hugo González
“Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States,” Serna said. “Low-dose CT screenings can reduce mortality by up to 30 percent. The radiation exposure is minimal— comparable to a few cross-country flights— and the potential to save lives is enormous.”
He emphasized that screening should become routine. “If you’re between 50 and 80 and have a history of smoking, please get screened. Early detection is the difference between life and loss.”
A Model of Multidisciplinary Cancer Care. Dr. Jose Cruz, Medical Oncologist and Hematologist, highlighted DHR Health’s commitment to innovation and collaboration.
Photo By Roberto Hugo González
“DHR Health isn’t just a GO2 Center of Excellence— it’s also Commission on Cancer–certified, which means every patient benefits from coordinated, multidisciplinary care,” Cruz said. “Our specialists meet weekly to review cases together, ensuring patients receive the most effective treatment plans. We also conduct clinical trials, bringing cutting-edge therapies right here to the Valley.”
“Cancer care isn’t about one doctor— it’s about an entire team,” Dr. Cruz emphasized. “Our success stories, like Mr. Camacho’s, reflect that unity.”
A Milestone for the Rio Grande Valley. With more than 7,000 healthcare professionals united under one mission, DHR Health continues to set new standards for excellence in South Texas.
“These recognitions aren’t just awards,” concluded Castañeda. “They affirm our relentless pursuit of better outcomes—through early detection, advanced technology, and compassionate, coordinated care. The families of the Rio Grande Valley deserve world-class healthcare right here at home, and that’s exactly what DHR Health delivers.”
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