The experienced transplant physicians at California Pacific Medical Center have enjoyed outstanding results and are renowned for their excellence and dedication.

Medical Director of the Heart Failure and Transplant Program

Ernest Haeusslein, MD
Dr. Haeusslein has been the lead cardiologist and member of California Pacific's transplant team since 1989. He is board-certified in Cardiovascular Disease and Internal Medicine. Dr. Haeusslein is responsible for the medical management and care of all patients throughout the heart transplant process, from evaluation to post-transplant follow-up. Dr. Haeusslein received his medical degree from UCLA School of Medicine. His special interests include end-stage heart disease management and pharmacological investigation. He manages a special clinical program for heart failure patients in conjunction with his heart transplant clinic.

Director of the Medical/Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU)

James Hershon, MD
Responsible for post-surgical organ transplant patients while in the MSICU, Dr. Hershon is board-certified in Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Disease and Internal Medicine. Dr. Hershon received his medical degree at the University of Vermont. He has worked in partnership with the California Pacific Cardiology and Cardiovascular team since 1979. He is fluent in Sign Language.

Surgical Director, Heart Transplants

G. James Avery, II, MD
Dr. Avery is Surgical Director of Heart Transplantation. He has been at California Pacific Medical Center since 1979. A graduate of Yale University and Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, he is board certified in Thoracic Surgery. He has 20 years of heart transplant and assist device experience. His special interest is in bridge to transplant.