EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The El Paso VA Health Care System has a new medical center director, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced this week.
Mark Rielo was named to the post and will oversee an operating budget of $735 million, and the delivery of health care services for more than 44,000 enrolled Southwest Texas veterans, the VA said.
“We are excited to officially announce Mr. Rielo as the new medical center director of the El Paso VA Healthcare System,” said Dr. Wendell Jones, Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 17 director. “His sound leadership qualities and proven experience are valuable assets for the facility, the employees and volunteers, and most importantly, for the veterans we are honored to serve.”
Rielo has been the acting director of the El Paso VA Health Care System since September 2024. Prior to joining the El Paso VA, Rielo was the associate director of the Amarillo VA Health Care System.
He has also held leadership positions at the VA Loma Linda Healthcare System, and VISN 22 Network Office and has over 18 years of experience serving veterans, the VA said.
Rielo holds a master’s degree in public health from Loma Linda University, and a master’s degree in economics from the University of California, Riverside. He is a VHA-certified mentor, a VA Healthcare Leadership Development Program graduate, has completed the Senior Executive Assessment Program and is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE).
The El Paso VA Health Care System operates in six counties across 19,000 square miles with 400,000 outpatient visits in the past year. In addition to health care services for veterans, the El Paso VA offers extensive education and internship programs for doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, the VA said.
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