Ralph DeFronzo, MD, PhD, Endocrinologist, Nephrologist, Researcher
Dr. DeFronzo is directly responsible for many of the advances achieved in diabetes over the last 50 years. He was a leader in developing the concept of insulin resistance, the defining characteristic of Type 2 diabetes, resulting in novel ideas about the development and progression of diabetes. He led the U.S. development of metformin, the first-line medication for treatment of diabetes, and ushered it through FDA approval in 1995.
More recently, he discovered a new approach to diabetes treatment that targets glucose reabsorption in the kidneys. This work led to the development and approval of other widely used drugs, including dapagliflozin, empagliflozin and canagliflozin. DeFronzo is the author of more than 800 publications dating back to 1967. His more recent work has led to potential cures for diabetes by producing new cells in the pancreas. Dr. DeFronzo has achieved national/international recognition as a distinguished researcher, teacher, and clinician. He currently serves as professor of medicine and chief of diabetes in the Long School of Medicine at UT Health San Antonio, where he has been on faculty since 1988.
Lisa Gorn, DO, Endocrinologist
Dr. Gorn is a board-certified endocrinologist specializing in diabetes. She attended Nova Southeastern University medical school and a residency at Mount Sinai Medical Center and then completed an endocrinology fellowship at the University of Miami Jackson Memorial Hospital.
Anna Velasco-Neaves, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Anna is a nurse practioner and has more than 25 years experience in healthcare. She is a veteran of the US Air Force, and has nursing degrees from the University of the Incarnate Word as well as UT Health San Antonio School of Nursing.
Barbara Walz, RN, BSN, CDE
Barbara is a registered nurse and has been a certified diabetes educator since 1986. She has worked extensively in diabetes care and education for the past 30 years. She has worked with Dr. DeFronzo on diabetes research and clinical programs for more than 15 years and is actively involved with the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE), as well as the Texas Diabetes Council where she is on several sub-committees.
Stephanie R. De Leon, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, CDE
Ms. De Leon is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator and Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics. Stephanie holds a Master of Science degree in Nutrition from the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas. Stephanie draws from the health coaching philosophy of encouraging individuals to set and achieve their health goals.
You can schedule your appointment with UT Health Diabetes today. Call 210-450-9050 or visit their web page.
