Collier County Medical Society (CCMS) is pleased to announce that Rolando Rivera, MD is the recipient of the 11th Annual CCMS Physician of the Year Award. This award honors a CCMS member who deserves special recognition for exemplary contributions to the practice of medicine and/or outstanding service to our community. Members of the Medical Society submitted nominations for the award to the CCMS Board of Directors, who this year selected Dr. Rivera, as nominated by Dr. Rebekah Bernard.
Dr. Rivera will accept the award by video at the CCMS 68th Annual Meeting & Installation of Officers on June 14th, Arthrex One Conference Center. Interested attendees can register for the event online or call (239) 435-7727. Sponsorships are also available, please contact CCMS for details. The event is open to the public.
“I’m deeply honored to receive the Physician of the Year award. This recognition is truly humbling, and I accept it on behalf of my family and the incredible team I work with every day,” said Dr. Rivera. “Medicine is never a solo journey—it’s built on collaboration, compassion, and continuous learning. Thank you for this meaningful acknowledgment.”
Dr. Rivera is a board-certified urologist with over 20 years’ experience in both male and female urologic care. He earned his medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico, followed by residency at the University of Florida, and fellowship training in Female Urology, Pelvic Surgery, and Urodynamics at the University of Miami.
Dr. Rivera, as founder and Board Chair of the Foundation of CCMS, has been instrumental in expanding its impact. In 2024, the Foundation exceeded a quarter of a million dollars in scholarships to future medical professionals over the past decade. The Foundation also surpassed $50,000 in endowed funds in 2024, laying the groundwork for sustainable support of medical education. Under Dr. Rivera’s leadership, the Foundation continues to help fund the CCMS Physician Wellness Program to address physician burnout.
In addition, Dr. Rivera serves on the board of the Physician Led Access Network (PLAN), is a past president of CCMS, and is the Section Chief of Urology at NCH and Market President for the Advanced Urology Institute of Southwest Florida. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, a faculty member with Teleflex/Neotract, and actively contributes to the advancement of urologic care through industry collaboration, innovation, and education.
“I have referred him patients for over 15 years and have seen firsthand the exceptional care and compassion he provides,” commented Dr. Bernard in her nomination. “And I’ve been personally inspired by his leadership and dedication to our community.”
“Celebrating physicians who go above and beyond in both their practice and community service is one of the highlights of our year,” said CCMS Board President, Dr. Zubin Pachori. “Dr. Rivera, congratulations on this well-earned honor—we’re thankful for your leadership, generosity, and outstanding impact on our medical community.”