2024 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT FOR DELIVERING SERVICES TO CITIZENS
FERNANDO O. RIVERA
FACHE
Southeast Louisiana Veterans
Health Care System Medical
Center Director
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Fernando O. Rivera, FACHE, is being recognized as the 2024 Lifetime Achievement for Delivering Services to Citizens for his distinguished career dedicated to enhancing public service within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Starting as a GS-5 engineer, he advanced to roles including medical center director, network director, and Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Health for Operations and Management. His journey, shaped by his personal experience as a Cuban American, underscores a profound dedication to the VA's mission and the veterans it serves.
Mr. Rivera's leadership has been instrumental in numerous transformative initiatives across VA facilities. Under his guidance, facilities like Martinsburg VAMC achieved national recognition for quality, Washington, D.C. VAMC received the Gold Standard Baldridge award, and Network 16 was honored as the most improved for Quality, Access, Satisfaction, and Efficiency. His advocacy for inclusion and cultural competency led to recognition in the LGBTQ Healthcare Equality Index, emphasizing his dedication to equitable healthcare.
In addition to his operational achievements, Mr. Rivera's tenure as VISN 5 Director oversaw significant advancements, including the implementation of over 35 telehealth modalities and the launch of the Integrated Disability Evaluation System. His leadership restored VA healthcare in the Gulf South after a decade-long absence, benefitting 66,000 veterans and earning accolades such as the American Veterans (AMVETS) Silver Helmet Award and a Presidential Rank Award.
Mr. Rivera's initiatives have measurably improved healthcare accessibility and quality for veterans, exemplified by reducing wait times to zero in Washington, D.C., and achieving top rankings in patient care outcomes. His proactive response to the COVID-19 pandemic at VA New Orleans set national standards, caring for over 1,600 COVID-19 patients and integrating responses across VA and private-sector healthcare systems.
Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Rivera has remained dedicated to service, driven by his personal journey and commitment to America's heroes. His leadership embodies innovation, dedication, and a steadfast focus on enhancing veteran healthcare with integrity and compassion.