Chen Senior Medical Center

Bios

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  Juan B. Ojeda, MD

  MD

  Dr. Ojeda believes in the importance of listening. That's why he counts playing his keyboard and saxophone among his favorite things to do when he's not at work. It's also why he takes the time to listen carefully to his patients. "As doctors, we need to show our patients we're interested in them. That we're aware of their needs and that we understand and care about them."

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  Link: Juan B. Ojeda, MD

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  Nicole Stevens, MD

  MD

  As a long-time resident of Miami, Dr. Nicole Stevens enjoys helping her community thrive by meeting their vital healthcare needs. "I value family very much," says Dr. Stevens. "I feel seniors are an integral part of our families and society as a whole. Working with them is very rewarding. I'm able to formulate a plan to help them deal with chronic health issues and watch them learn to take control of their health and well-being. I listen to them and am interested in their lives. I want to build relationships with them that last a long time."

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  Link: Nicole Stevens, MD

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  Jose Cofino, MSN, FNP-BC, NP-C

  MSN, FNP-BC, NP-C

  Jose Cofino is a family nurse practitioner and a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Havana in Cuba and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Florida Atlantic University. He earned his master’s degree in nursing from Barry University in Miami. Prior to joining Chen, Jose was a nurse supervisor at Vitas Innovative Hospice Care where he identified physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs for terminally ill patients and their families. Jose is fluent in English and Spanish.

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  Link: Jose Cofino, MSN, FNP-BC, NP-C

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  Jennifer Castilloux, DO

  DO

  Since Dr. Jennifer Castilloux was young, she’s always been interested in science. “All the complexities of the human body and pathology piqued my interest,” Dr. Castilloux says. Specializing in internal medicine, Dr. Castilloux rounds in skilled nursing facilities in Broward and Miami-Dade counties. “I chose to work with seniors because I believe they deserve a physician that will advocate for their needs, especially if they are unable to do so for themselves. I take time to make sure my patients really understand what’s going on with them and teach them about prevention so they can regain control of their health and take better care of themselves,” Dr. Castilloux adds.

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  Link: Jennifer Castilloux, DO

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  Yamile Perez Pelipiche

  MD

  Dr. Yamile Perez Pelipiche is board certified in family medicine. She earned her medical degree from the Higher Institute of Medical Sciences, Santiago de Cuba. She completed a one year internal medicine residency at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and a two year family medicine residency at Manati Medical Center in Puerto Rico. She is a member of the American Society of Family Medicine. “I strive to provide high-quality healthcare to my patients,” says Dr. Pelipiche. “I work with them to establish a successful treatment plan and assist them in becoming independent in self-care so they can reach and maintain optimal health.” Dr. Pelipiche’s hobbies include yoga and photography. She speaks fluent Spanish.

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  Link: Yamile Perez Pelipiche

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  Angel Lamas, MD

  MD

  Doctor Angel Lamas is board certified in family medicine and specializes in procedures such as joint injections, suturing and wound care. He feels primary care medicine is the cornerstone of healthcare, and believes in “old-fashioned” medicine when physicians were the doctor, friend, counselor, coach and priest for the family. “My patients aren’t biological beings who need to be treated,” says Dr. Lamas. “They are persons affected by organic, social and psychological conditions. I help them create a balance between those components.” Dr. Lamas and his wife have known each other since middle school; they have two children. He enjoys family activities and is an avid reader. He also likes to travel and learn about other cultures and historical sites.

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  Link: Angel Lamas, MD

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  Tameka Joseph

  MD

  Dr. Tameka Joseph knew she wanted to become a doctor when she was in first grade. It was simply in her nature. Specializing in internal medicine, Dr. Joseph enjoys empowering patients to take charge of their health. She especially enjoys helping seniors and ensuring they get the care they deserve. Dr. Joseph says, “I think it’s important to take time to really listen, build a relationship, and collaborate with patients regarding their care as if they were family.” You can also find Dr. Joseph mentoring minority students, helping educate medical students, and volunteering in underserved communities.

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  Link: Tameka Joseph

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  Melissa Perurena Hernandez

  DPM

  From a young age, Dr. Melissa Perurena Hernandez knew she wanted to be a doctor. “I wanted to be a part of that support system a patient needs when they need healthcare. I knew that was an important role and that I would be impacting someone’s life every day,” she says. Dr. Hernandez strives to make patients feel comfortable coming to her and is appreciative of the lasting relationships she forms. Dr. Hernandez loves serving the senior population. She explains, “they need someone who is patient, attentive, and willing to listen to their needs, and I knew I would be able to do this.” When not caring for patients, Dr. Hernandez loves spending time with her family. She also enjoys cooking and exercising daily.

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  Link: Melissa Perurena Hernandez

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  Kariesa Brown

  MD

  It was a childhood dream of Dr. Kariesa Brown to become a doctor and make a difference. “My favorite part of being a physician is developing relationships with patients and their families,” she says. She encourages patients to be active in the decision-making surrounding their health. “I was able to bond with a lot of the older population during residency, and I realized by effective communication with seniors and their families, we could help them live a healthier life in their older days and prevent complications,” she explains. In her free time, Dr. Brown enjoys spending time with friends, dancing, and visiting new places. She grew up in Trinidad and Tobago, and although she considers herself an “island girl,” she loves winter.

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  Link: Kariesa Brown

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  Damny Del Rio Rodriguez

  FNP, ARNP

  Damny Del Rio Rodriguez recognized his interest in medicine at a young age. “When you study something because you really like it you will be a good professional in your field,” he says. He loves forming relationships with patients and helping them make necessary lifestyle changes. “The relationship is strengthened with patients when you know how to carefully listen and provide an action plan at the level of each patient,” he explains. He actively engages with research to keep up with new medical advancements. “Medicine is a science in constant change and development,” he says. Damny Del Rio Rodriguez enjoys playing sports, reading, and fishing in his free time. Prior to moving to the US, he worked as a physician in Cuba.

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  Link: Damny Del Rio Rodriguez

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  Rafael Nones Pena

  MD

  Dr. Rafael Nones Pena’s interest in medicine began as a teenager. “I realized that helping others was the greatest way to live in this world, and I felt it was my calling,” he says. His favorite part of his profession is “positively influencing others to pave a path for their well-being.” He values honesty and open communication. He explains, “I believe everyone is unique, and the more you know someone, the easier it is to find ways of working together on mutual goals.” He adds, “It is all about being present with care, compassion, and curiosity.” Dr. Pena considers himself “a family guy” and can be found spending time with his family in his free time. He also enjoys traveling, learning, and teaching.

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  Link: Rafael Nones Pena