Ernesto Cortez DO takes interest in working closely with his patients to make sure they get the right resources and information about their individual conditions. His approach to patient care is deeply rooted in the cultural understanding of each of his patients, enabling him to deliver care that is appropriate and meaningful for each patient. Dr. Cortez was born in Michoacan, Mexico. At the age of nine, he relocated with his parents and his brother to Santa Barbara, California, where his family worked as farm workers on a lemon orchard. He discovered his interest in medicine while taking science classes in high school. Determined to learn more about the medical field, he began volunteering at a local community clinic where he interacted with patients, learned to take vitals, conduct simple tests, and found mentorship under the wing of doctors and specialists. His volunteer experience inevitably motivated him to pursue a career as a physician.
