In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, a doctor at NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health recalls how her heritage and culture has influenced where she is today.

Dr. Michelle Soto is a Brooklyn-born Puerto Rican who is also the chief of ambulatory care at South Brooklyn Health. Dr. Soto says her desire to enter the medical field sparked when she was just a little girl after her father was diagnosed with HIV.

Dr. Soto says she saw her parents faced barriers including language and cultural understanding, and she wanted to be the bridge in the gap. Other health professionals describe Dr. Soto as someone who truly cares about the well-being of others- mentally, physically, and emotionally

Dr. Soto says she wants to make sure her care continues to be inclusive and comfortable for everyone.