About
The Story of Tien VO MD
From refugee to "rock star doctor" — the inspiring journey of a physician who built a healthcare legacy in the Imperial Valley.
From Vietnam to America
Tien VO MD was born in Vietnam and arrived in the United States in 1992 at the age of 16 as a refugee. The early years were challenging — he spoke little English and faced enormous cultural and academic obstacles. He enrolled at Magnolia High School in Anaheim, California, where he had to learn English while simultaneously taking community college classes at Cypress College to catch up academically.
Despite these challenges, Tien VO MD pursued his dream of becoming a physician with extraordinary determination. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from the University of California, Riverside, then enrolled at Ross University School of Medicine in the Caribbean. Although it took him four times as long to read and study as his English-speaking peers, he excelled academically and earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree.
"That was just a hurdle, not a permanent blocker. I committed to overcoming it and didn't give up. You can't look at a challenge in a negative way if you want to succeed."
Dr. Tien Vo completed his Internal Medicine residency at The Brooklyn Hospital Center in New York, where he gained extensive clinical experience in one of the most demanding medical environments in the country. After residency, he relocated to the Imperial Valley — a medically underserved region in Southern California — where he saw an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.
Building a Healthcare Legacy
From a solo practice to a multi-specialty medical organization serving two valleys.
In 2014, Tien VO MD founded Vo Medical Center in El Centro, California. What began as a solo Internal Medicine practice quickly grew into a comprehensive healthcare organization. In January 2024, the practice was rebranded as Legacy MD Medical Group — a name that reflects Dr. Vo’s vision of building something that will endure and serve the community for generations.
Today, Legacy MD Medical Group operates clinics in El Centro, Calexico, Brawley, and Indio, offering services that include Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Cardiology, Urgent Care, Mammography, Imaging, Cosmetic Services, and Clinical Research. In October 2024, the group unveiled a state-of-the-art facility at 1699 North Imperial Avenue in El Centro — featuring a cardiac rehabilitation center, the Legacy MD Research Institute, a fully equipped urgent care, and advanced imaging services.
In recognition of its impact, Legacy MD Medical Group was named the 2024 Business of the Year by the Calexico Chamber of Commerce. The award reflects not only the organization’s clinical excellence but also its deep commitment to community engagement — from sponsoring local events to supporting veterans and partnering with charitable organizations.
The 'Rock Star Doctor' — COVID-19 Leadership
When the pandemic struck, Tien VO MD became the frontline hero his community needed.
In 2014, Tien VO MD founded Vo Medical Center in El Centro, California. What began as a solo Internal Medicine practice quickly grew into a comprehensive healthcare organization. In January 2024, the practice was rebranded as Legacy MD Medical Group — a name that reflects Dr. Vo’s vision of building something that will endure and serve the community for generations.
Today, Legacy MD Medical Group operates clinics in El Centro, Calexico, Brawley, and Indio, offering services that include Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Cardiology, Urgent Care, Mammography, Imaging, Cosmetic Services, and Clinical Research. In October 2024, the group unveiled a state-of-the-art facility at 1699 North Imperial Avenue in El Centro — featuring a cardiac rehabilitation center, the Legacy MD Research Institute, a fully equipped urgent care, and advanced imaging services.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, Imperial County was devastated — at one point recording the highest per-capita infection rate in California. Hospitals were overwhelmed, and patients were being airlifted to other counties for treatment. In this crisis, Tien VO MD and his wife stepped up in extraordinary ways.
Dr. Vo was among the first private physicians in the region to offer drive-through COVID-19 testing. He and his team conducted more than 27,000 coronavirus tests, making his clinic one of the most active testing sites in Imperial County. But his efforts went far beyond testing — he made house calls to quarantined patients, delivered meals to families in isolation, and provided personal cell phone access so patients could reach him directly.
The Associated Press covered his story, describing him as a “rock star doctor” — a title that resonated with the community and captured the attention of national media. His tireless efforts during the pandemic exemplified the kind of physician he has always been: one who puts patients and community first, regardless of the personal cost.
27,000+
COVID-19 Tests Conducted
“He’s like a rock star doctor. He’s everywhere, helping everyone.”
— Associated Press, 2020
EasyAccess Care IPA
Expanding healthcare access through strategic partnerships.
In addition to Legacy MD Medical Group, Tien VO MD founded EasyAccess Care IPA — an Independent Physician Association that partners with multiple health plans to expand healthcare access for underserved populations. EasyAccess Care IPA works with Molina Healthcare, Brand New Day, Astiva Health, and Clever Care Health Plan, among others.
The IPA model allows Dr. Vo to coordinate care across a network of physicians and specialists, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive, integrated care regardless of their insurance status or financial situation. EasyAccess Care IPA is currently expanding its network with plans to extend into San Diego County, further broadening its reach and impact.
Philanthropy & Community Engagement
Giving back to the community that gave him a second chance.
Tien VO MD’s commitment to community extends far beyond the walls of his clinics. He has established multiple scholarships and grants through Bold.org to support students pursuing higher education at accredited U.S. colleges and universities. These include the Tien VO MD Scholarship ($1,000), the Tien VO MD Grant ($1,000), and three additional awards — the Legacy MD Scholarship, the EasyAccess Care IPA Scholarship, and the Tien Vo Scholarship.
Beyond scholarships, Dr. Vo actively sponsors cultural events, supports local sports teams, honors veterans, and partners with organizations like Brawley Feed The Need to provide food assistance to families in need. His annual Legacy MD Medical Group Gala has become a signature community event, bringing together healthcare professionals, community leaders, and local businesses to celebrate achievements and raise awareness for important causes.