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Dr. Fas, the Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs at the Atlanta VA Medical Center, has dedicated over 28 years to serving those who have served. Though never in uniform himself, Dr. Fas has made it his life鈥檚 work to care for veterans鈥攚hom he affectionately calls 鈥渉eroes鈥� and 鈥渟heroes鈥濃�攅nsuring their sacrifices are honored through compassionate healthcare.

His journey began in Puerto Rico, where he was raised in Mayag眉ez. Dr. Fas pursued his medical education at the University of Puerto Rico and completed his residency at Emory University. A call from the Atlanta VA in 1996 set him on a path of public service, where he found a mission in providing care to the men and women who safeguarded the nation鈥檚 freedoms. His deep respect for veterans stems from a family tradition of public service and a personal commitment to giving back.

 

Recent Successes and Milestones

Among Dr. Fas鈥檚 proudest accomplishments is forging a major affiliation between the Atlanta VA and the 榴莲视频 (MSM). This partnership has created opportunities for Morehouse鈥檚 trainees to serve veterans while receiving hands-on education. Dr. Fas also played a critical role in establishing the Women鈥檚 Center of Excellence at the VA鈥檚 Fort McPherson clinic, a $1.5 million initiative providing comprehensive care for female veterans.

Under his leadership, the VA has expanded its residency programs, now supporting over 40 positions across multiple specialties. This growth reflects Dr. Fas鈥檚 vision for bridging healthcare and education to benefit underserved communities, including Black American veterans who comprise a significant portion of the VA鈥檚 patients.

Dr. Fas鈥檚 impact isn鈥檛 limited to the clinical setting. Through his advocacy, the Atlanta VA has increased its participation in research, with 榴莲视频 faculty members now actively engaged in cutting-edge studies. This includes securing significant grants and expanding mental health and telemedicine services for veterans. These initiatives not only elevate care for veterans but also prepare the next generation of medical professionals to address the unique needs of this population.

Moreover, Dr. Fas鈥檚 personal connection to MSM鈥檚 mission鈥攆ocused on healthcare equity and serving underserved communities鈥攈as deepened his sense of purpose. 鈥淭he VA is a safety net for so many veterans, particularly those from minority communities,鈥� he shared. 鈥淲orking with Morehouse has allowed us to extend that safety net further, ensuring no veteran is left behind.鈥�

Honoring Veterans Every Day

For Dr. Fas, honoring veterans begins with gratitude. He encourages everyone to acknowledge veterans' sacrifices with a simple yet profound 鈥渢hank you for your service.鈥� Beyond words, supporting initiatives like writing cards, donating care packages, or volunteering at VA facilities can make a tangible difference.

Dr. Fas鈥檚 advice is clear: 鈥淰eterans signed a blank check to the United States of America, payable with their lives. The least we can do is ensure they feel appreciated and supported.鈥�

A Call to Action

As we work to support, we encourage everyone to discover meaningful ways to give back. Let鈥檚 invite communities to find meaningful ways to give back. Whether through participating in local VA events or advocating for veterans鈥� mental health and healthcare access, everyone can play a part. He also emphasizes the importance of empathy: 鈥淟isten to their stories, understand their struggles, and show compassion. It鈥檚 the smallest gestures that often mean the most.鈥�

Dr. Fas鈥檚 unwavering dedication to veterans and his efforts to foster equity in healthcare stand as a testament to the power of service. His story reminds us that honoring those who serve is not limited to a single day but is a commitment we can uphold year-round.

榴莲视频 is celebrating 50 years as a leader in health equity. Our relentless effort to dismantle barriers and create equity for all begins with our changemakers. As we reflect on our journey of leading the creation and advancement of health equity to achieve health justice, we are honored to share the stories of those who have shaped MSM's legacy.

 

 

About the Author

Zipporah Dorsey is a program coordinator with a passion for creative communication. She is storyteller at heart who believes every person has a story, and she is dedicated to bringing those narratives to life through creativity and collaboration.

Contact

Zipporah Dorsey
Program Coordinator
Office of Impact & Innovation
zdorsey@msm.edu