Born in Mobile, Alabama, and bred in the vibrant city of Atlanta, Dr. Leo Moore embodies the essence of Southern warmth combined with the progressive spirit of Los Angeles. Transitioning from his Southern roots to becoming an Angeleno, Dr. Moore’s journey is not just geographical but also professional and deeply personal. With a laugh, he declares himself a “Southern Angeleno,” a testament to his adaptive and inclusive identity.
Shaping a Path in Medicine and Public Health
From an early age, Moore was drawn to the field of health and medicine, inspired by his family’s legacy of servant leadership. His ambitious dream to become the first doctor in his family led him to the Morehouse School of Medicine, followed by an enriching residency at Yale University School of Medicine. Moore’s academic journey didn’t stop there; he further honed his expertise through the Robert Wood Johnson Clinic Scholars Program at UCLA, focusing on community research and health policy.
Championing Sexual Health and Combating HIV Stigma
In his role as a medical director for clinic services at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Dr. Moore oversees various clinics, dedicating himself to sexual health, tuberculosis, and refugee health. His commitment extends beyond clinical practice to addressing public health challenges head-on, particularly the stigma surrounding HIV. Moore emphasizes, “We cannot end the HIV epidemic once and for all without ending HIV stigma.” This powerful statement highlights the pervasive impact of stigma on every aspect of HIV care, from testing to treatment, underscoring the need for comprehensive education and policy reform to dismantle HIV criminalization.
A Personal Mission Fueled by a Near-Death Experience
A life-altering event in January 2023 served as a catalyst for Dr. Moore’s renewed dedication to his mission. Following a routine surgery that momentarily halted his heartbeat, Moore awoke with a revitalized purpose. His work, especially in HIV and STI prevention, has earned him recognition as 2024’s Ultimate Men’s Health Guy by Men’s Health magazine. Yet, it’s his personal commitment to ending HIV stigma and promoting testing and treatment that stands at the forefront of his endeavors.
Balancing Work with Well-Being
Outside the hospital walls, Dr. Moore finds solace and strength in physical activity, from weightlifting to hiking, and the simple joys of music and reading. He actively fosters a community of health and wellness through his Fit150 Community on Facebook, encouraging others to embrace a lifestyle that balances physical health with mental well-being. His upcoming Instagram Live series, Longevity with Dr. Leo, promises to extend his influence, sharing insights on living healthier, longer lives.
Dr. Leo Moore’s narrative is more than a story of personal achievement; it’s a beacon of hope and action against the shadows of stigma and inequality in healthcare. As a “Southern Angeleno,” he bridges diverse worlds with the common goal of a healthier, more inclusive society.