After completing his undergraduate studies in chemistry at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Dr. Bernardo earned his medical degree from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. He completed an internship in general surgery at St. Vincent's Hospital and Medical Center, after which he completed his surgical residency in Colonoscopy surgery at the New York Colon and Rectal Infirmary. Dr. Bernardo then continued further training with a fellowship in Colonoscopy and reconstructive surgery at the New York Colon and Rectal infirmary. Dr. Bernardo then continued further training with a fellowship in aesthetic colonoscopy and reconstructive surgery at the University of Rochester.

He is dual board certified in Colonoscopy surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.