Bio 2024

Dr. Cruz began his medical training at UCLA, where he completed the Medical Scientist Training Program, obtaining a PhD in Molecular immunology studying T cell selection and regulation. He continued his training at UCLA for Internal Medicine, Cardiology, and Advanced Heart Failure and Transplantation, while further investigating the molecular mechanisms of innate immunity. For the past 20 years, Dr. Cruz has dedicated his career to the care of patients with advanced heart failure, mechanical circulatory support, and transplantation.  He is the Co-Director of the Amyloid program at UCLA, and the Associate Medical Director of heart transplantation. In partnership with the Adult congenital disease program, he has played an integral role of the management of complex congenital heart disease patients prior to and after heart transplantation.