Raul J. Frances, MD, PhD
Cardiologist and Educator
- Residency and Fellowship in Internal Medicine and Cardiology, National University of Rosario
- Advanced Fellowship Training in Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, and Pacing at Harvard Medical School, University of Missouri–Kansas City, and State University of New York
- Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, Florida International University
- Former Instructor and Adjunct Professor, National University of Rosario and Open Interamerican University, Argentina
- Published Medical Researcher in Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, and Internal Medicine
- International Lecturer and Speaker on Cardiovascular Medicine
“The changes we see through diet, exercise, and lifestyle improvements are remarkable. In just a short time, patients can experience meaningful improvements in their health, sometimes even reducing their need for medication. Helping patients understand that they have the power to improve their health is one of the most rewarding aspects of medicine.”
With extensive clinical, academic, and research experience in cardiovascular medicine, Dr. Frances brings a deep understanding of heart health and a strong commitment to helping patients live longer, healthier lives.
Dr. Frances earned his MD and PhD from the National University of Rosario School of Medicine in Argentina, where he also completed residency and fellowship training in Internal Medicine and Cardiology. He pursued additional fellowship training in Cardiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology, and Pacing through programs affiliated with Harvard Medical School, the University of Missouri–Kansas City, and the State University of New York
Throughout his career, Dr. Frances has combined clinical practice with medical education and research. He has held teaching positions at universities in Argentina and serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at Florida International University.
His research has been published internationally, covering topics including cardiac arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, electrophysiology, antiarrhythmic medications, and inherited cardiovascular conditions. Among his contributions is research identifying a genetic association between anterior polar cataracts and arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia, which he reports was incorporated into the Human Genome Project. He has also presented at medical conferences in Argentina, Paraguay, and the United States.
While his early medical career focused on specialized cardiovascular treatments, Dr. Frances has developed a particular appreciation for the profound impact of lifestyle medicine. He recognizes that nutrition, physical activity, and other lifestyle changes can improve metabolic health, reduce cardiovascular risk factors, and, in some cases, help reverse existing health complications.
At Pritikin, Dr. Frances is passionate about translating scientific knowledge into practical, sustainable changes that help patients take greater control of their health. He finds particular fulfillment in seeing patients achieve measurable improvements in their health, sometimes within days, and helping them build habits that support long-term wellness.