MEET OUR TEAM

---

Andy Garcia a bilingual, Board Certified Physician Associate with extensive experience in primary care, urgent care, orthopedic surgery, and pain management. As the CEO and Lead Provider, Andy brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to our healthcare practice.

With a Master of Medical Science and Board Certification as a Physician Associate, Andy is committed to delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to his patients. Andy's leadership ensures that our healthcare team operates at the highest standard, providing exceptional medical services tailored to each individual's needs. With Andy Garcia at the helm, you can trust that you're receiving expert care from a trusted healthcare provider. 

Ana Taboada brings a unique blend of clinical insight, administrative excellence, and compassionate care to her role at Vital Health & Wellness Group. With a strong academic foundation in Biological Sciences and hands-on experience in both patient care and business operations, Ana ensures our clinic runs smoothly while always putting patients first.

Ana’s academic research in environmental and genetic sciences showcases her analytical skills and dedication to evidence-based care. Fluent in both English and Spanish, and currently expanding her ASL skills, Ana is committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment for our patients and team alike.

At Vital Health & Wellness Group, Ana is more than a manager—she’s a vital part of our mission to deliver personalized, integrative healthcare with compassion and excellence.

 With two years of experience as a Nursing Assistant and a background as a Medical Scribe, Karla is committed to compassionate, patient-centered care. Her journey toward becoming a Physician Assistant is fueled by her dedication to learning and growing every step of the way

Working alongside Andy at Vital Health and Wellness Group, Karla has witnessed firsthand the perseverance and dedication it takes to thrive in the healthcare field. She’s excited to continue this incredible journey and contribute to the health and wellness of our community! 

As an MA, Karla oversees day-to-day operations, coordinates patient appointments, and maintains a seamless workflow within the healthcare facility. Karla is a true gem and every patient that comes into her care will be well taken care of. 

Melanie is a Registered Nurse (RN) dedicated to providing compassionate and high-quality care to patients. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University, she's built a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to excel in the healthcare field.

As an RN, she holds certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), ensuring that she's equipped to handle critical situations with confidence and efficiency. Fluent in both Spanish and English, she's able to communicate effectively with a diverse range of patients and their families, fostering trust and understanding. With a passion for patient advocacy and a commitment to continuous learning and growth, I strive to make a positive impact in the lives of those entrusted to my care.

Maria Rivas is a Registered Nurse (RN) with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Florida International University. She is a passionate health and wellness advocate with a diverse background in nursing. 

As a pediatric registered nurse, she has gained invaluable experience in various healthcare settings, including travel nursing. Maria's love for the outdoors fuels her commitment to a balanced lifestyle, inspiring others to prioritize their well-being. 

With a vibrant personality and a zest for life, she embodies the principles of health and wellness in both her professional and personal pursuits. Mere always gives her patients the utmost respect and compassion and always strives for greatness. 

Paul Kinard is Registered Nurse (RN) and Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) who obtained his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Florida International University. With expertise and dedication, Paul ensures top-notch care and convenience, bringing wellness and hydration directly to you! 

Paul Kinard is a Miami native and Registered Nurse with over seven years of experience in emergency care, adult med-surg, oncology, and telemetry, as well as travel nursing. In addition to his clinical work, he serves as an online health and fitness coach, helping clients achieve their wellness goals through personalized programs.

Outside of work, Paul enjoys paddle boarding and fishing, embracing the outdoors and promoting an active lifestyle.

 George Gomez is a Registered Nurse (RN) and is one of our mobile IV nurses.  With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Miami and a strong background in ICU care, patient education, and hands-on clinical experience, George brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to our team. His dedication to health and wellness, along with his ability to provide top-tier care in any setting, makes him a perfect fit for our mission of helping clients feel their best—anytime, anywhere.

George is passionate about personalized patient care and is always ready to go the extra mile to ensure an exceptional experience. Whether you need hydration, recovery support, or a wellness boost, you’re in great hands with him!
 

Lauren Pankarican is a South Florida native who has been using her healing hands to benefit others since 2011. She offers massage and bodywork techniques aimed at improving your health and wellness on many different levels. 

The intent in every session is to leave you with not only a relaxed body, but also a relaxed mind and spirit. Since earning her massage therapy license, she has acquired certifications in massage modalities related to reproductive health, pediatrics, facial rejuvenation, lymphatic drainage, cupping, and more.

Lauren is excited to use her many years of experience to help you meet your wellness goals!

Leslyn Aldana-Garnier, AP, RN, is a highly experienced healthcare professional with over 30 years in the medical field. She holds a Master’s degree and Diploma as a Doctor in Oriental Medicine and began her career as a Registered Nurse specializing in Labor & Delivery and GI procedures—two fields that shaped her passion for patient care.

Her journey led her to work closely with top hepatologists, colorectal surgeons, and GI specialists in Miami, deepening her expertise in both women’s health and digestive wellness. As a Certified NSEV Acupuncturist, Leslyn strongly believes in the integration of Eastern and Western medicine, combining modern science with holistic healing to offer comprehensive, patient-centered care.

At Vital Health and Wellness Group, she applies her deep knowledge and experience to help patients achieve balance, healing, and optimal well-being through acupuncture and functional medicine.