Rafael E. Valle-Salinas, MD

Rafael E. Valle-Salinas, MD, serves as the Medical Director and Chief Hospitalist for Critical Care and Pulmonary Consultants at Vibra Hospital of Denver. In this dual leadership role, he oversees the clinical care of patients in long-term acute care, including those recovering from intensive care, ventilator dependence, and complex respiratory or neurological conditions. Dr. Valle-Salinas balances hands-on patient care with administrative responsibilities, managing teams of physicians, nurses, and clinical staff while ensuring high standards of care across the facility.

Dr. Valle-Salinas’ medical journey began with a strong foundation in the sciences, earning a degree in Biomedical Science, Magna Cum Laude, from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, followed by an MD from UCC School of Medicine, Cum Laude. He completed his internal medicine residency at Nassau University Medical Center in New York and is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Early in his training, he developed a keen interest in patients with traumatic brain injuries and the complex interplay between pulmonary, cardiac, and neurological systems, which has shaped his focus on critical and long-term acute care.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Valle-Salinas is recognized for his leadership, perseverance, and commitment to continuous improvement in healthcare delivery. His career reflects a dedication to advancing patient outcomes through both clinical excellence and organizational innovation. Outside of medicine, he pursues personal growth and challenge through aviation, working toward a pilot’s license—a long-held passion that complements his demanding professional life.

• UCC School of Medicine - MD

• American Board of Internal Medicine

• Doogie Howser Award

Rafael E. Valle-Salinas, MD published:

A Simple Urinary Retention Reveals a Complicated Heart Infection (NYACP, Nov 2018)
Discusses spinal epidural abscess as a complication of infective endocarditis in patients with intravenous drug use (IVDU).

An Unusual Presentation of Ertapenem Neurotoxicity (NYACP, Nov 2018)
Examines non-seizure neurotoxicity as an adverse effect of Ertapenem in patients with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

USMLE STEP 1 Cracker Review Book (Self-Published, Nov 2016)
A comprehensive study guide for medical students preparing for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1.