Sarasota, Florida – July 22, 2025
CenterPlace Health, a leading provider of accessible, high-quality health care services for patients in and around Sarasota County, announced the appointment of Dr. Fred Bearison as their new Chief Medical Officer (CMO). Dr. Bearison brings a distinguished career in clinical leadership and a deep commitment to serving underserved populations, which will be instrumental in advancing the center’s mission and expanding its impact.
In this pivotal role, Dr. Bearison will oversee all clinical operations, quality improvement initiatives, and the strategic direction of medical services across CenterPlace Health’s four locations in Sarasota County. He will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of patient care, fostering a culture of clinical excellence, and leading the development and implementation of innovative healthcare programs to address the evolving needs of the community.
“We are incredibly excited for Dr. Bearison to advance to our executive leadership team,” said Bob Rodriguez, Interim CEO of CenterPlace Health. “His extensive experience in value-based care, managed care programs, and medical risk management along with his significant experience in teaching and coaching medical teams make him the ideal leader to guide our clinical strategy. We are confident that under Dr. Bearison’s leadership, we will further enhance the quality and accessibility of our services, ultimately improving the health and well-being of the patients we serve.”
Dr. Bearison joined the CenterPlace Health team in July 2024, serving patients at their Sarasota Adult Clinic. He is a highly seasoned Board-Certified Internal Medicine physician with over 35 years of clinical practice and a profound passion for patient care.
Prior to joining CenterPlace Health, Dr. Bearison owned and managed a primary care medical practice in Valrico, Florida, for over 33 years. His distinguished career also includes serving on the Florida Board of Medicine for 8 years (Chairman in 2010), presiding as president of the Hillsborough County Medical Association, and much more.
Dr. Bearison will share his time as CMO while continuing to provide part-time patient care at CenterPlace Health’s Sarasota Adult Clinic. Dr. Bearison will also play a key role in provider recruitment and retention, staff development, and fostering strong relationships with community partners and stakeholders.
“I am honored and enthusiastic to lead CenterPlace Health, said Dr. Bearison. “I am deeply committed to the community health model and look forward to collaborating with the talented team here to build upon the center’s successes, and work towards a healthier future for all members of our community.”
CenterPlace Health’s outgoing Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Lisa Gonzalez-Abello, is departing CenterPlace Health to join the medical staff of the #1 nationally recognized John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. All Children’s is known for providing expert care and offering the best in pediatric medicine. Dr. Abello, with her extensive experience and compassionate care, will be an excellent addition to their team.
Dr. Abello has been an integral part of CenterPlace Health’s leadership team since December 2019, guiding the health care facility through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and playing a crucial role in stabilizing the organization. Her dedication to their mission, leadership as interim CEO during a critical time, and fierce advocacy for quality health care have been truly remarkable.
“As I prepare to transition from my role as Chief Medical Officer at CenterPlace Health, it is with immense pleasure and full confidence that I endorse Dr. Fred Bearison as my successor. Having worked closely with Dr. Bearison, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand his exceptional leadership, profound medical expertise, and unwavering commitment to CenterPlace Health’s mission and values. I am confident that his leadership will not only build upon the strong foundations we have established but also propel CenterPlace Health to new heights in providing quality care to the patients we serve,” said Lisa Gonzalez-Abello, MD.