Dr. Gary Fernando
Dr. Gary Fernando is the chief medical officer for Crusader Community Health. (Photo provided by Crusader Community Health)
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Crusader Community Health has named Dr. Gary Fernando as its new chief medical officer.

Fernando most recently served as the chairperson of the pediatrics department. He is also a clinical assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford. He will step into the role of chief medical officer on Dec. 1.

As chief medical officer, Fernando will provide administrative oversight of medical providers, clinical programs and quality assurance activities. He will also coordinate the organization’s work with the local hospitals, teaching institutions and other health care partners.

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In addition to his leadership responsibilities, Fernando will continue to provide direct patient care.

“We are fortunate to have Dr. Fernando transition into the role of chief medical officer,” Crusader Community Health President and CEO Sam Miller said in a news release. “Dr. Fernando’s experience will assist our organization in strengthening the relationships we have with our patients, our medical staff and in the community we serve.”

Fernando is a board-certified pediatrician and Diplomate Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He attended medical school at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, and he completed his pediatric residency and chief residency at Stony Brook University Medical Center in New York.

He also previously served as a member of the board of directors and president of the Winnebago County Medical Society.

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