Providing care to underprivileged communities is the reason Sergio Godinez studied medicine and why he joined DAP Health. Now at the blue clinic, Sergio previously worked at Valley Comprehensive Medical Group and West Coast Wound and Skin Care.He graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in biology and earned his master’s degree in physician assistant studies from Samuel Merritt University.

Conversing with patients to learn about their medical conditions and whether they are well controlled or if the patient is struggling is key to his practice. Fluent in Spanish, Sergio understands that patients -- whether they're Spanish speaking or English speaking – just want to be heard. “First and foremost, I'm here to listen to their concerns. Often, patients don’t know what to say during a consult with their provider or feel rushed. I'm here to listen to every single one of their concerns. There's no such thing as something that should be overlooked. There's no such thing as a small complaint. Everything has its viability.”

Sergio believes patient care is a team effort. “I do not make decisions for my patients and, likewise, patients do not make decisions for themselves. It's a team-based effort. Having a complete understanding of what they're doing increases adherence. And I've noticed there's been much more success when the patient is on board with the treatment plan.”

When he’s not working, Sergio loves to draw and paint. This creative outlet helped him tremendously during his PA program. In fact, he took such meticulous notes and incorporated such detailed drawings that they were shared with students who were struggling with their studies. Even now, drawing remains a great outlet for him.

A relative newcomer to the valley – he’s been here for 15 months – Sergio is still learning his way around. “ I have a great appreciation for the patient population here in the valley and I  just want to reach out to as many as possible and provide that care.”

DAP Health clinicians, including Sergio, provide the latest HIV/AIDS treatments in a safe, judgment free environment. They are skilled in working with LGBTQ+ individuals to craft treatments that work and enhance their patients' quality of life. Services includes HIV testing; STI screening; linkage to care; HIV medications, including antiretrovirals, PEP and PrEP; patient education; mental health services; dental services; and more.