July 8, 2021
Six Rio Grande Valley (RGV) physicians have begun new terms of service in Texas Medical Association (TMA) leadership positions.
TMA leaders elect or appoint TMA physicians and medical students to one of TMA’s 25 boards, councils, and committees. They are responsible for studying health care-related issues and making recommendations on important health care policy affecting Texas patients and their physicians.
These physicians are members of the Hidalgo-Starr County Medical Society, unless otherwise noted.
Edinburg
James W. Castillo II, MD, a hospice and palliative medicine physician in practice for 16 years; elected to the TMA Council on Science and Public Health. He is a member of the Cameron-Willacy County Medical Society.
Cristel Escalona, MD, a pediatrician in practice for 15 years; appointed to TMA’s Committee on Physician Health and Wellness.
Martin Garza, MD, a pediatrician in practice for 21 years; elected to TMA’s Council on Legislation.
McAllen
Lenore C. DePagter, DO, an internist in practice for 20 years; appointed to TMA’s Committee on Membership.
Raymondville
Albert L. Smith, MD, a family physician in practice for 37 years; appointed to TMA’s Committee on Rural Health. He is a member of the Cameron-Willacy County Medical Society.
San Juan
Roel E. Cantu, MD, a pediatrician in practice for 18 years; elected to the TMA Council on Socioeconomics.
Descriptions of the councils and committees:
Read the descriptions and responsibilities of each TMA council and committee.
TMA is the largest state medical society in the nation, representing more than 55,000 physician and medical student members. It is located in Austin and has 110 component county medical societies around the state. TMA’s key objective since 1853 is to improve the health of all Texans.
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Contact: Brent Annear (512) 370-1381; cell: (512) 656-7320
Marcus Cooper (512) 370-1382; cell: (512) 650-5336
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