Carlos Gonzales

Carlos Gonzales, MD, FAAFP serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine and Assistant Vice President for Indigenous Affairs. His work focuses on border health issues, health disparities among underserved populations, rural health challenges, and traditional Indian medicine integration.

His educational background includes:

• BA from Carleton College, Northfield
• MD from the University of Arizona
• Family Medicine Residency at University of New Mexico
• Adolescent Medicine & School Health Fellowship at University of New Mexico
• Faculty Development Fellowship at University of Arizona

Dr. Gonzales' research addresses critical health inequities along the U.S.-Mexico border through community-engaged approaches, emphasizing culturally responsive care for Indigenous populations and rural communities while advancing traditional healing practices within modern healthcare frameworks.

His scientific recognition includes:

• Arizona Family Physician of the Year (1997)
• Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians (2005)

He provides clinical leadership as Medical Director at El Rio Neighborhood Health Center and holds significant governance roles including Senior Arizona Delegate to the American Academy of Family Physicians, past-President of the Arizona Congress of Delegates, and membership in the United States-Mexico Border Health Commission. His ongoing work bridges academic medicine with community health systems to address border health policy and Indigenous wellness initiatives.