April 3, 2019, Philadelphia – Dr. Oscar Eduardo Saldana, medical director for Asociación Puertorriqueños en Marcha, Inc. (APM) passed away peacefully on March 18,2019. Dr. Saldana’s career as a psychiatrist spanned over 50 years.
Born and educated in Peru, Dr. Saldana came to the United States in 1965 for his first medical internship at Prince George’s Hospital in Maryland. He continued his education in psychiatry at Hahnemann University Hospital, where he later served as a senior clinical instructor. Dr. Saldana spent his career meeting the behavioral health needs of children, adolescents and families across Philadelphia.
Dr. Saldana came to APM as a part-time medical director in 2014. His unique experience working with persons in recovery (PIR) made him a valuable asset in the agency’s work to treat our community’s mental health issues. He provided critical education to APM’s behavioral health team that enabled them to provide efficient and effective care, with the appropriate use of medications and other interventions. Dr. Saldana understood the importance of engaging the family in any treatment plan, and he took a personal interest in the on-going care of his patients.
Outside his work with APM, Dr. Saldana explored interests ranging from photography to gymnastics, track and field, and fencing. His love of soccer remained throughout his life, and even afforded him the scholarship granted by the Governor of Peru that enabled him to move to the United States to pursue his career. Dr. Saldana leaves behind life partner, Gladys, children, Deborah and Raphael, and many more extended family members.