Dr. Villarama’s medical journey began in the Philippines where he was inspired by both his grandmother, a traditional midwife, and his mother, who had hopes he would one day become a physician. As a child he developed a strong interest in medicine accompanying his grandmother on medical visits by the age of ten. While she delivered babies and attended to the sick, Dr. Villarama was by her side. He began his career at GVHC in July 2007 as a family physician in Merced, practicing full scope family medicine including hospital inpatient care. Five years later he was named Associate Medical Director. He then served as the Merced area Hospitalist Medical Director from 2013 to 2015, later transitioning into the role of Regional Medical Director. In May, 2022, he was appointed as the Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of GVHC. In addition to his work at GVHC he has served as a chief of staff for Dignity Health Merced Mercy Hospital, a delegate to the California Medical Association and President of the local Medical society. Dr. Villarama is also a founding board member of the Kids Discovery Children Museum of Merced.
His passion for healthcare and serving patients remains as strong as his commitment to GVHC’s mission of providing high-quality care through clinical services to all members of our community regardless of any barriers they may be experiencing. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family and pet dog “ Hershey” and loves outdoor activities like hiking, road cycling and mountain biking.