Profiles

Dr. Ann M. Hernández’s research focuses on addressing health disparities among Latinos and underserved populations, particularly through innovative solutions like telehealth and community-based participatory methods. Her work, supported by competitive grants such as the LIFT-UP award, investigates how structural inequities impact care delivery, especially for linguistically diverse and low-income communities. By exploring barriers to healthcare access and developing targeted interventions, Dr. Hernández advances the understanding of effective, equitable healthcare solutions that improve outcomes for Latinos and vulnerable populations.

She is committed to fostering diversity in medical education and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals. As a faculty member in PRIME-LA and the HRSA Underrepresented in Medicine Center of Excellence, she mentors students from diverse backgrounds, guiding them through pathways to medical careers and leadership roles. In recognition of her unwavering dedication to justice, equity, and diversity, she received the prestigious Bruin Scholar Award from the David Geffen School of Medicine. Through initiatives like Bridging the Gap, she not only empowers high school and pre-health students but also strengthens efforts to build a healthcare workforce that reflects and serves underrepresented and underserved communities.

Dr. Hernández exemplifies a deep commitment to community service through her extensive work with underserved populations and mentoring. She actively mentors and volunteers at community health fairs, such as La Cosecha and the Latino Medical Student Association’s Lennox Health Fair, providing vital healthcare services and education to farmworkers and low-income residents. Dr. Hernández also engages with initiatives like Care Harbor and the Emergency Intake Site for Unaccompanied Minors, addressing critical health needs for vulnerable groups.