Emergency Medicine
Current Residents
Chief Residents
Nelson J. Escudero-Gorritz, MD
Nelson J. Escudero-Gorritz, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: Bayamón Puerto Rico Puerto Rico
UNDERGRADUATE: Inter American University of Puerto Rico
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Being born and raised in beautiful Puerto Rico, in the middle of the Caribbean, is an unparalleled privilege. When I graduated from high school I was not sure about pursuing medicine right away, thus I decided to test the waters by becoming an EMT Paramedic. I fell in love with medical emergencies and making split-second decisions. Life led me to work for several years helping workers in the private sector before heading to medical school. A few years forward and I am now in the California desert to become what I know is the best profession for me to help people in need, and make my family proud as well. I know it will be difficult, however I am excited for the future!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Studying abroad gave me new perspectives in life both personal and professional. In Guadalajara I volunteered in local clinics caring for Spanish-speaking patients and was elected to the Board of a couple of student-led organizations that instituted changes enjoyed by many students today.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: Initially, I wanted to match at Eisenhower to be close to family in the area. Eventually, I realized Eisenhower has a supportive environment, many helpful resources and faculty and colleagues with a genuine desire to teach and help you succeed. The combination of California, family, and a caring residency program is the ideal recipe to become a well rounded emergency physician for the community.
Katelyn Nielsen, MD
Katelyn Nielsen, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: Murrieta, CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE: California State University, Fullerton
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Southern California. I went to CSUF for undergrad, where I got my bachelors of science in kinesiology with a minor in pre-allied health. I grew up playing sports and went on to play Division I volleyball, which is a big reason why I decided to pursue emergency medicine. I have always been a very active person who loves being outside whether it is at the beach or in the mountains. When I am not working, you can find me outside hiking or camping with my family and dogs, reading a good book, or catching a flight to a different country.
My professional interests in the field of emergency medicine include mentorship and teaching, sports medicine, and ultrasound.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I graduated Magna Cum Laude from medical school. During medical school, I was very involved in our university’s AMSA chapter that would put on free health clinics to the local citizens on the island of Grenada in areas where healthcare access was limited. In addition, I was an active member of the Dean’s List Selective for all pre-clinical terms. I also was involved in our department of educational services as an outstanding academic tutor, serving younger medical students and mentoring them through their academic courses.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: Eisenhower Medical Center stands out as a well distinguished hospital with a wide range of pathology, acuity, and high patient volume. The hospital has immense resources for residents to pursue their interests within the field of emergency medicine. When I spent time rotating here during my fourth year of medical school, it immediately felt like home. Many of the residents welcomed me in with open arms and made me feel part of the Eisenhower family. I cannot be more happy to be a part of a program that focuses on both academic success and personal growth and development.
Keshav Sharma, MD
Keshav Sharma, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: Carlsbad, CA, United States
UNDERGRADUATE: Carlsbad, CA, United States
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University SOM
ABOUT ME: I was born in India but moved to San Diego when I was less than a year old. Since then, I’ve called San Diego home and have enjoyed every minute of it! I attended both high school and undergrad there before venturing way out of the state (and country!) to the Caribbean for medical school. Due to Hurricane Maria in 2017, my class ended up spending time on several islands and even a year in Knoxville, Tennessee during basic sciences before the school officially relocated to Barbados. I have a huge interest in aviation and hope to start training for a pilot’s license sometime during or soon after residency (already have the obligatory aviator sunglasses and leather jacket!). In my free time, I enjoy skateboarding, drumming, and weightlifting at the gym. I also ran my first Spartan race recently and hope to complete a full trifecta within the first year of residency and hopefully yearly after that!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Finishing basic sciences of medical school on the Dean’s list. Spending clinical years of medical school at a county hospital providing healthcare to the largely vulnerable and underserved migrant farmworker and oilworker patient populations. Participating in community outreach events at local schools and colleges and teaching EM-based procedural skills to students of all ages.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I spent four weeks in the ED at Eisenhower during my elective EM rotation and knew at the end of it that Eisenhower was where I wanted to be for residency. From the awesome faculty, staff, and residents who actively encouraged me to take charge of my patients from start to finish to the wide range of pathologies I saw on shift, I left the rotation with a better understanding of EM and a greater conviction to return for residency. It doesn’t hurt that I also get to train in Southern California so close to home! I’m looking forward to making some great memories with my fellow residents and attendings in the next few years!
PGY-3
Nadine El Hajj, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: Beirut Lebanon
UNDERGRADUATE: University of Balamand
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Balamand
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Lebanon where I did most of my medical training, then had the chance to live in Manchester, England for two years where I experienced a new health care system but could not master the accent! I enjoy great food, trying new restaurants, exploring trails to hike, reading, international travel, and hanging out with family and friends!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I am proud to be the first physician in the family!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: During my interview process, I felt that Eisenhower was the right place for me. It is a friendly and supportive environment, coupled with a commitment to residents’ wellness and a culture focused on teaching. To top it off, I get to enjoy the sunny Coachella Valley!
Nelson J. Escudero-Gorritz, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: Bayamón Puerto Rico Puerto Rico
UNDERGRADUATE: Inter American University of Puerto Rico
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Being born and raised in beautiful Puerto Rico, in the middle of the Caribbean, is an unparalleled privilege. When I graduated from high school I was not sure about pursuing medicine right away, thus I decided to test the waters by becoming an EMT Paramedic. I fell in love with medical emergencies and making split-second decisions. Life led me to work for several years helping workers in the private sector before heading to medical school. A few years forward and I am now in the California desert to become what I know is the best profession for me to help people in need, and make my family proud as well. I know it will be difficult, however I am excited for the future!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Studying abroad gave me new perspectives in life both personal and professional. In Guadalajara I volunteered in local clinics caring for Spanish-speaking patients and was elected to the Board of a couple of student-led organizations that instituted changes enjoyed by many students today.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: Initially, I wanted to match at Eisenhower to be close to family in the area. Eventually, I realized Eisenhower has a supportive environment, many helpful resources and faculty and colleagues with a genuine desire to teach and help you succeed. The combination of California, family, and a caring residency program is the ideal recipe to become a well rounded emergency physician for the community.
Vahe Martikian, MD
HOMETOWN: Diamond Bar/Burbank, CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University of Los Angeles
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Diamond Bar, CA and moved to Burbank, CA at the start of 8th grade. I played basketball and soccer when I was younger and trained in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for two years. I have been dreaming of becoming a doctor since I was eight years old after my father survived a brain aneurysm. My journey began when I attended Cal State LA and received a bachelors in Biology while working full time in the car hauling industry. I then ventured off to the island of Sint Maarten for my first two years of medical school. I completed my third year in Miami, FL and my fourth year in Bakersfield, CA. This journey has taken me to the most unexpected of places while meeting many different people and learning about myself along the way. In my free time I like to write poetry, listen to vinyl records, read, paint, work out, run, hike, fish, camp, cook and spend time with my loved ones.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I had the opportunity to present on topics including Opioid Use Disorder, Abnormal Pap Smears, Blunt Abdominal Trauma, and Back Pain. I also mentored aspiring medical students on my spare time during my fourth year.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: As a Southern California native, I spent a lot of vacation time in the Palm Springs/Palm Desert area regularly with my family. I found out about Eisenhower Health in Spring of 2022 when I attended the First Annual Emergency Medicine Symposium for medical students. I quickly cancelled my last clinical rotation and signed up to rotate at Eisenhower as my last and final clinical rotation of medical school, and I’m glad I did. I learned so much during my four-week rotation and was lucky to be part of the learning and family environment the residents and faculty had established at Eisenhower. Within the first few days, I felt so welcomed and a vital part of the team. The program is curated with balance and the residents’ well being as a priority while advocating for a positive learning experience. I knew from day one I stumbled upon a hidden gem–a welcoming place to learn, grow, be close to home and serve the community that’s become a part of me for as long as I’ve known.
Marissa Martin, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: Dublin, OH United States
UNDERGRADUATE: Youngstown State Univeristy
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I am a former D1 soccer player and the youngest of three siblings. An ideal off day for me is spent with my dogs and fiancé trying various coffee shops. We are avid soccer fans and can be found playing locally or watching professional soccer! We also love to travel and explore different cultures and cuisines.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I attended medical school on the beautiful island of St. Maarten where I participated in various volunteer days to give back to the community. Also, matched at my #1 residency program.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I knew Eisenhower was going to be the program for me within one week of my audition rotation. I felt so included and part of the team from day one of the rotation. Seeing how the department flowed and the close-knit relationships among the residents are some of the many reasons why I was ecstatic to be doing residency at Eisenhower.
Katelyn Nielsen, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: Murrieta, CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE: California State University, Fullerton
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Southern California. I went to CSUF for undergrad, where I got my bachelors of science in kinesiology with a minor in pre-allied health. I grew up playing sports and went on to play Division I volleyball, which is a big reason why I decided to pursue emergency medicine. I have always been a very active person who loves being outside whether it is at the beach or in the mountains. When I am not working, you can find me outside hiking or camping with my family and dogs, reading a good book, or catching a flight to a different country.
My professional interests in the field of emergency medicine include mentorship and teaching, sports medicine, and ultrasound.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I graduated Magna Cum Laude from medical school. During medical school, I was very involved in our university’s AMSA chapter that would put on free health clinics to the local citizens on the island of Grenada in areas where healthcare access was limited. In addition, I was an active member of the Dean’s List Selective for all pre-clinical terms. I also was involved in our department of educational services as an outstanding academic tutor, serving younger medical students and mentoring them through their academic courses.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: Eisenhower Medical Center stands out as a well distinguished hospital with a wide range of pathology, acuity, and high patient volume. The hospital has immense resources for residents to pursue their interests within the field of emergency medicine. When I spent time rotating here during my fourth year of medical school, it immediately felt like home. Many of the residents welcomed me in with open arms and made me feel part of the Eisenhower family. I cannot be more happy to be a part of a program that focuses on both academic success and personal growth and development.
Mohit Prajapati, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: Santa Clarita, CA, United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Riverside
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born in India and moved to California in 2009. Moved around a lot in my life, including changing schools 9 times before graduating from Foothill Technology in Ventura, so adjusting to new places comes naturally to me now. I really enjoy traveling, backpacking, hiking and exploring new places in general. I also enjoy cooking and trying new cuisine and delicious dishes.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: In medical school I realized that I enjoyed tutoring in Biochem and Physiology, which I did officially on the island, and then on and off during remaining rest of medical school. I was also part of multiple clubs that helped students adjust to medical school and the island life.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I had heard of Eisenhower Health from multiple of my colleagues about being an amazing environment to train, and decided to do a rotation here in my 4th year. I was really surprised by how active the ED was and how close the residents were with each other and the faculty, I realized that this is what I want for my training.
Keshav Sharma, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: Carlsbad, CA, United States
UNDERGRADUATE: Carlsbad, CA, United States
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University SOM
ABOUT ME: I was born in India but moved to San Diego when I was less than a year old. Since then, I’ve called San Diego home and have enjoyed every minute of it! I attended both high school and undergrad there before venturing way out of the state (and country!) to the Caribbean for medical school. Due to Hurricane Maria in 2017, my class ended up spending time on several islands and even a year in Knoxville, Tennessee during basic sciences before the school officially relocated to Barbados. I have a huge interest in aviation and hope to start training for a pilot’s license sometime during or soon after residency (already have the obligatory aviator sunglasses and leather jacket!). In my free time, I enjoy skateboarding, drumming, and weightlifting at the gym. I also ran my first Spartan race recently and hope to complete a full trifecta within the first year of residency and hopefully yearly after that!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Finishing basic sciences of medical school on the Dean’s list. Spending clinical years of medical school at a county hospital providing healthcare to the largely vulnerable and underserved migrant farmworker and oilworker patient populations. Participating in community outreach events at local schools and colleges and teaching EM-based procedural skills to students of all ages.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I spent four weeks in the ED at Eisenhower during my elective EM rotation and knew at the end of it that Eisenhower was where I wanted to be for residency. From the awesome faculty, staff, and residents who actively encouraged me to take charge of my patients from start to finish to the wide range of pathologies I saw on shift, I left the rotation with a better understanding of EM and a greater conviction to return for residency. It doesn’t hurt that I also get to train in Southern California so close to home! I’m looking forward to making some great memories with my fellow residents and attendings in the next few years!
Thomas Shen, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: San Jose, CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE: UC San Diego
MEDICAL SCHOOL: UC Davis
ABOUT ME: I love fixing cars, especially old BMWs. In my spare time you can find me mountain biking in the summer and downhill skiing in the winter.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Training USFS wildland firefighters how to respond to medical emergencies.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: It was all about the people. Every single person I met at Eisenhower was someone I could see not only working with, but also having fun with.
Rabeya Tufail khan, MD
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Emergency Medicine
HOMETOWN: Karachi Pakistan
UNDERGRADUATE: N/A
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ziauddin University
ABOUT ME: I grew up in Karachi, Pakistan and moved to Los Angeles in 2019. So Cal has been home for me since and I am excited to start this new chapter at Eisenhower. I am very passionate about community work, healthcare disparities and racial diversity in medicine. My first love was surgery which unknowingly evolved into wanting to pursue EM. Outside of work I love to travel , exploring different cuisines and meeting new people.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I am extremely proud of the path that brought me here. It involved alot of hard work and led me to gain phenomenal skills during my surgical residency years at harbor – UCLA Medical Center. I look forward to using the skills I have gained and bringing it into practice as an EM resident. I have also presented my research work on gender and racial diversity among surgical workforce at various conferences and won the first prize at our annual research symposium.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I love how involved and supportive the faculty is. I was also very impressed by the diverse residents in every department. The opportunities and the facilities provided to EM residents here are phenomenal and top notch.
PGY-2
Emilio Benbassat, MD
HOMETOWN: Naperville, IL United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Loyola University of Chicago
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean
ABOUT ME: I am originally from Chicago, the best city on earth, this cannot be debated. I played Division 1 soccer at Loyola Chicago and still love to play and watch soccer in my free time. Family is very important to me and I enjoy spending as much time with them as possible. Outside of the ED I love to travel and enjoy the outdoors with my fiance and our two dogs, GSD Koda and lab Cooper. I am also into all things that pertain to fitness and wellness. I am also a self proclaimed wine connoisseur and coffee enthusiasts.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Matching here of course!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: After doing an EM and ultrasound rotation here, cliche I know, but I felt at home. Attendings, residents, nurses, and all staff alike were super supportive and helpful from day 1. Being an athlete my whole life I believe camaraderie is essential, and Eisenhower exudes this within the ED. I also suppose an added bonus was the fact my fiance was an intern while I rotated here.
Joseph Bui, MD
HOMETOWN: Orange, CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Irvine
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Florida International University-Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Orange County in Southern California. I’ve had the amazing opportunity to attend UCI for undergrad and to attend medical school in Miami, Florida. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, being active, being outdoors, hiking, catching sunsets, taking walks, and listening to live music. Some of my lifelong goals include traveling, improving my communication, being more mindful, and learning about different cultures.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I have been interested in Emergency Medicine ever since being in the Emergency Medicine Research Associates Program at UCI and also working at the Western Journal of Emergency Medicine. Since then, I have only found new reasons to love this specialty, including the team dynamic, the mentors and colleagues I have met, and the diverse fund of knowledge. I have been very fortunate to attend medical school in the socioeconomically and culturally diverse city of Miami, Florida. Throughout medical school, I gained interest in public health and published various research papers including a study comparing Yelp and Google as it correlates with quality of care, and another study comparing critical care costs across hospitals in the U.S.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I initially heard about Eisenhower through various mentors of mine from UCI. After rotating here for my Emergency Medicine away rotation, I understood why my mentors and everybody else was drawn to Eisenhower. Beyond the rapidly growing EM program, strong leadership, and the wide range of pathology and patient population at Eisenhower, I was personally drawn to the mentorship and comradery that I experienced during my time here. I’m excited and grateful to be training at a program and hospital that prioritizes wellness while promoting vigorous learning. I hope to be able to give back to this community that is so close to home!
Thy Cao, MD
HOMETOWN: Garden Grove, CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Irvine
MEDICAL SCHOOL: William Carey
ABOUT ME: Raised in the vibrant culture of Vietnam, I carry the values of family, tradition, and warmth with me wherever I go. I’m a friendly individual, finding joy in connecting with others and sharing laughter. Recently embracing motherhood to a four-month-old baby, I’m navigating the beautiful chaos with love and patience.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: While in school, I visited different areas and observed at a variety of healthcare settings. It was a transformative experience to see the differences in patient needs and medical services in rural, suburban environments such as Vietnam, Mexico, and India to ultra-modern healthcare systems like in Japan and here in the United States.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I chose Eisenhower Health for my residency from its supportive environment, both from its esteemed faculty and among its residents. During my interview, I feel very impressed with the hospital facility . The way the resident proudly talked about the program training and the supporting faculty make a big impression on my interview day also.
Harutyun Dzhabrayan, MD
HOMETOWN: Sylmar California United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Irvine
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends. I am an avid Lakers and Rams fan. Traveling is a passion of mine, especially going on cruises surrounded by the vast ocean. I also have a furry companion, GiGi.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: B.S. in Public Health Science from UCI
MD from St. George’s University
Working on MPH from St. George’s University
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: From the very start of my rotation at Eisenhower, I was welcomed by everyone, from attendings to residents and felt like a member of the team. During my rotation I witnessed how well prepared and independent the residents were. Everyone was like a supportive family that not only worked well together but also enjoyed spending time outside of work. Additionally, Eisenhower is close to my home.
Camden Fuller, MD
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Los Angeles before going to Ann Arbor for college and grad school. In college I worked as an ED scribe, where I discovered my love for Emergency Medicine. My volunteer experiences at free clinics also helped me see the inequities that people face in healthcare that can eventually bring them to the emergency room. This fueled a passion for public health and social medicine and led me to get my MPH alongside my MD while at St. George’s University in Grenada. I enjoyed my time in both Michigan and Grenada and meeting and getting to know all sorts of new people, but the California native in me drew me back here for residency. In my free time, I like traveling, cooking, video games, stand-up comedy, and relaxing by the pool or beach.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Getting my BSE and MSE in biomedical engineering from the University of Michigan, and my MD and MPH from St. George’s University. At SGU I was a member of the Emergency Medicine Club, IEA, and graduated cum laude. I am a member of the Delta Omega honorary society in public health and am CPH certified.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I chose Eisenhower after having a great experience during my rotations in EM and Ultrasound. I was amazed at how open and kind all the residents, attendings, and staff were, and felt welcomed by everyone there from my very first day. I felt that Eisenhower would offer me diverse pathologies to treat along with plenty of procedures, and will train me to be a well-rounded emergency physician. I was also amazed at all the teaching and outreach resources that the program had, along with faculty pursuing all sorts of research interests, and the opportunities that these resources provide to the residents.
Maritza Lozano, MD
HOMETOWN: Buckeye AZ United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Northern Arizona University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean
ABOUT ME: I am a West coast gal, have enjoyed having CA and AZ as home bases. Love being outdoors, whether it be hiking out in the mountains or hanging out at the beach. Born and raised Dodgers/ baseball fan, hoping to one day visit every MLB stadium (so far got 13 under my belt).
During my free time I enjoy hanging out with family and friends, trying out new breweries/ food spots, and hanging out with my dog Dalia.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Being the first physician in my family and speaking at the white coat ceremony at our Preston UK campus.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: After rotating at Eisenhower for one of my EM electives I couldn’t see myself anywhere else, it felt like home. Everyone was kind and I genuinely felt like they wanted to see me succeed. The patient population and the close proximity to my family was the cherry on top.
Monica Magallon, MD
HOMETOWN: Orange County, CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Vanguard University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St George’s University
ABOUT ME: I was raised in Orange County, CA where my family owned a pizza shop for most of my childhood. During college, I majored in kinesiology, and I became an EMT. I spent most of my college years working alongside many amazing US military veterans (also where I met my husband) and I hope to use my profession as a physician to one day give back to the veteran community. I love traveling the world with my husband and going to the movies. In my free time, I also enjoy cooking, weightlifting, spending time with my family, going to Disneyland, country concerts, and Broadway shows.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I graduated college in 3 years and was awarded Kinesiology Student of the Year. In medical school, I was awarded a humanitarian scholarship for my work with my church and veterans.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: Before even applying to residency, Eisenhower was on my radar given that it is located in Southern California and I knew I wanted to stay near home for residency. It wasn’t until I rotated as a medical student that I truly realized how special this hospital is. Everyone was so kind and genuinely cared about your learning and well-being. I am beyond excited to start my emergency medicine career at Eisenhower!
Genaro Morales, MD
HOMETOWN: Indio, CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Riverside
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Believer in Christ. Father of 3; all about family. Love watching soccer (FC Bacelona) and football (RN4L). Love playing outdoors with my kids
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Attended College of the Desert, University of California Riverside, and Ross University School of Medicine
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: Being from the Coachella Valley, born and raised in Indio, CA, this is home. Eisenhower Health holds a special place in my heart. In 2023, my wife was diagnosed with cervical cancer, and Eisenhower Health provided the exceptional care and advanced treatment she needed. I will forever be grateful for the treatment and care she received. I am proud and fortunate to be a part of the team.
An Nguyen, MD
HOMETOWN: Fountain Valley CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Irvine
MEDICAL SCHOOL: William Carey College of Osteopathic Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born in Vietnam and grew up in Orange County, California where I called home. I went to UCI for undergrad and attended William Carey for medical school in Mississippi, where I gained valuable knowledge and met many great friends and people. Now, I am excited to return home to Southern California to pursue my training as an emergency physician. I find joy in the simple pleasures of spending time with loved ones, engaging in everyday activities that bring us closer together, such as cooking, trying out new restaurants, and going for walks.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: During my audition rotation here, I was welcomed into a supportive environment by the residents, attendings, and staff. Their encouragement made my experience truly memorable. The sense of community and the dedication to excellence displayed by everyone I encountered make this a place where I am eager to continue my journey.
Kyle Zadeh, MD
HOMETOWN: Carlsbad, California United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University San Marcos
MEDICAL SCHOOL: William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine
ABOUT ME: I am originally from Carlsbad and I moved to rural MS for medical school during the COVID pandemic. I rotated in southern Mississippi and was presented with various pathologies and very fascinating patient population dealing with chronic diseases, such as CHF and diabetes. On my free time, I love to run, hike, and just visit the beach. I’m a pretty spontaneous person when it comes to traveling or planning a trip. For instance, I drove 28 hours from Mississippi to California to explore various states along the way.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I started medical school during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and during social isolation. I was elected as Neuroscience class rep by other fellow medical students and won the student doctor of the month award for our medical school. Also, I tried to survive and dodge a dozen or so tornadoes during my medical school experience.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I felt completely welcomed by all residents and great team of EM staff. Everybody is helpful and supportive and it feels like just being part of a family. I spent about 8 weeks of rotation at Eisenhower through EM and ultrasound which motivated me to choose this place as my #1 spot. Also I chose this place due to its close proximity to my family and my home in San Diego.
PGY-1
Matthew Chen, MD
HOMETOWN: South Pasadena, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Johns Hopkins University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine
ABOUT ME: I grew up in Southern California, and I initially became interested in Emergency Medicine by volunteering at various hospitals. I’ve been all over the country for my education, with K-12 in the west, college in the east, and medical school in rural Mississippi. During my free time, I enjoy running, biking, going to the gym, and playing the piano.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: In medical school, as President of Red Cross Club, I organized blood drives on university campus. We had great turnouts, and I am very glad that I was able to contribute to a good cause.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: Being from Southern California, I like the location of Eisenhower Health, and I have been wanting to return home for residency. I also rotated at Eisenhower Health, and I had a great time and got to know a lot of the attending physicians and other residents.
Robert Collins, MD
HOMETOWN: San Jose, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Merced
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in San Jose and spent much of my academic journey in the Central Valley. Before medical school, I worked at a Bay Area urgent care, starting as a medical assistant and eventually becoming Director of Operations. After gaining experience in healthcare administration, I pursued my M.D. at Ross University, spending two years in Barbados and completing clinical rotations across California.
Outside of medicine, I enjoy weightlifting, running, woodworking, refurbishing vintage weights, and exploring the outdoors with my fiancée and our German Shepherd, Buddy. My favorite activities include hiking, backpacking, car camping, and running half marathons, with plans to complete a full marathon soon.
Looking ahead, I hope to grow into a well-rounded emergency medicine physician while continuing to explore the outdoors and build a life centered on family, service, and adventure.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I earned my B.S. in Human Biology from UC Merced and my M.D. from Ross University, where I was named to the Dean’s List throughout basic sciences. I’ve co-authored several case reports presented at conferences and enjoyed mentoring prospective medical students through Q&A sessions. As the first physician in my family, I hope to inspire others in my family and community to pursue this wonderful profession!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: After completing several clinical rotations at Eisenhower, I quickly realized that this program would challenge me to grow while providing the mentorship and resources to thrive. I knew that the high ED volume and diverse patient population would expose me to a broad range of pathology. I also appreciated the program’s culture, which emphasizes procedural training, resident wellness, and strong community involvement. The faculty’s commitment to both the program and resident experience was clear, and I saw firsthand how this positively impacted the residents. As a bonus, Eisenhower is located in a beautiful part of California, with easy access to major cities and the natural spaces I love to explore.
Grace Garcia, MD
HOMETOWN: Van Nuys CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Miami
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Saint Louis University
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, where my family still lives today. I am proud to be Mexican American and grew up speaking Spanish at home. After high school, I moved to Miami to earn my undergraduate degree. I then took a gap year working as and ED scribe in Maui, which is where I first fell in love with Emergency Medicine. My next move was to the midwest, where I pursued my medical degree in Saint Louis. In my free time I like to work out, hike, go to the beach, and watch reality TV with my cat.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I am a first-generation college graduate and the first physician in my family.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I felt that Eisenhower was a place where I could learn to be a well-rounded EM doc while feeling supported by the people around me. As a huge bonus, I get to enjoy the Southern California sun and live close to my family.
Jonathan Kwok, MD
HOMETOWN: Huntington Beach, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC San Diego
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University Of The Caribbean
ABOUT ME: I love playing basketball, volleyball, and I’m working on my lifelong goal of dunking. In addition to my sports passion, I enjoy researching and testing basketball and running shoes to find the perfect one. Off the court, I’m an avid listener of K-pop and have binged over 45 K-dramas along with 200 anime series.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I had the opportunity to do a global health elective at Cho Ray Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This was a unique experience, as it allowed me to practice medicine in the country where my parents grew up. Rotating in Vietnam was also a humbling experience, as I witnessed firsthand the challenges of providing care in a resource-limited setting. It deepened my appreciation for the resilience of both patients and healthcare providers and reinforced my commitment to compassionate, adaptable patient care.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I was initially drawn to Eisenhower while searching for a way to return to Southern California for residency. However, after rotating there, I knew it was where I wanted to be. Growing up with four siblings, I’ve always valued camaraderie and teamwork, which is why I enjoy team sports like basketball and volleyball. That same sense of camaraderie was evident not just among the residents but also with the attendings and staff. I especially appreciated working with attendings who were committed to providing the best possible learning experience, making my time at Eisenhower both enriching and rewarding.
Rebekah Mounger, MD
HOMETOWN: Gig Harbor, WA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Washington
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Midwestern University-Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
ABOUT ME: I grew up in the Pacific Northwest and spent my childhood sailing, skiing, and hiking. Emergency Medicine excites me because of the fast-paced nature of the field. I enjoy working alongside patients during hectic situations and providing a steady, consistent presence. After attending medical school in Arizona, I grew to love the desert landscape and am excited to move to the Coachella Valley. Outside of medicine, I enjoy watching Washington Husky football games, spending time with my family, and playing the New York Times word games.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Prior to medical school, I spent several years coordinating international surgical trips and supporting health programs in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. My love for public and global health led me to pursue my Master of Public Health during medical school.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I did a sub-internship here and really enjoyed the variety and complexity each day presented. During my rotation, I was impressed by the caliber of care patients received. I felt like all the staff enjoyed working together and were on the same team during challenging situations. Additionally, my husband has family in Rancho Mirage, making me feel even more at home in this program.
Jennifer Phung, MD
HOMETOWN: Houston, TX
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Houston
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of Antigua College of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Born and raised in Houston, TX! Always on the lookout for my next adventure—whether that’s traveling, being a foodie, hanging out at Disney, or hunting for the perfect cup of coffee (amateur connoisseur in the making). When I’m not indulging in good food, you can usually find me attempting to go for a run, hike, or lifting heavy things just to put them back down. Also begging my dog to Bella to love me. I’m also a certified sneakerhead, a devoted New Girl re-watcher, and a firm believer that there’s always room for ice cream!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Mentoring incoming students and helping them adjust to the demands of medical training while adjusting to life on the island during medical school. Through this role, I provided guidance on study strategies, clinical skills, and work-life balance, fostering a supportive learning environment.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I had the opportunity to rotate at Eisenhower Health, and it immediately felt like the right fit. The combination of strong clinical training, a supportive faculty, and a diverse patient population made for an incredible learning experience. I was drawn to the culture of collaboration and the emphasis on both education and patient-centered care. The faculty were genuinely invested in teaching, and the residents had a strong sense of camaraderie. I know this is the kind of environment where I would thrive and continue to grow into the best emergency physician I can be!
Haley Pollock, MD
HOMETOWN: Orange, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University – Fullerton
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Trinity School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Hi everyone! My name is Haley Pollock and I am so excited to be joining the Eisenhower family! A little about me: I love traveling, I’m currently at about 25 countries in the world, with my goal to reach 80 someday! I love music, specifically EDM, which I love to attend music festivals and shows around the US and world. I have two amazing animals, Blue a Golden Retriever, and Luna, a calico cat! I am very close with my family, and have an amazing group of friends I surround myself with. One last fun fact, I am the only person in my family that has attended medical school and become a physician, truly honored to have made it this far!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I created an online newsletter titled: Trinity Times Newsletter, that I would update weekly as the Director of Communications in my Student Government Association. I was really proud of this 🙂
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I was lucky enough to do a Sub-I here during my 4th year of medical school, and I truly fell in love with everyone and Eisenhower itself. The feeling of family was something I thought about daily during my rotation, and every day after. I pictured myself here for residency, and I am beyond thrilled that dream became a reality!
Don Leo Reyes, MD
HOMETOWN: San Francisco, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: San Francisco State University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I am a Filipino-American, born in Davao City, Philippines, and have made San Francisco, California my second home. Through resilience and perseverance, I have reached where I am today, guided by the unwavering support of my family and friends. Beyond my professional journey, I enjoy the simple things. I am a novice coffee enthusiast, continuously refining my roasting and brewing techniques to explore the rich flavor profiles of beans from around the world. Each day, I strive to craft the perfect cuppa. Additionally, I have a keen interest in medical memes, personal finance, and minimalism.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I trained as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and had the privilege of working in ambulances. The experience opened doors to further opportunities in a hospital setting as an Emergency Room Technician (ER Tech). My path to medicine had detours, but the early exposure to emergency care reinforced my passion for the field.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: Having previously worked in an emergency department, my first impression of Eisenhower Emergency Department reminded me of my old stomping ground. Jam-packed ER that is supported by dedicated medical professionals. I immediately sensed that this department would be the ideal place to nurture my journey in emergency medicine. I was also impressed by the close-knit group of EM residents, whose camaraderie and teamwork culture stood out as one of the defining strengths of the program.
Derrick Austin Sy, MD
HOMETOWN: Diamond Bar, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Riverside
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Touro University Nevada
ABOUT ME: Hi y’all, my name is Derrick and I’m a 1st gen Filipino American born and raised in Southern California. I initially graduated UCR as an engineer but switched to medicine when I realized that the patient provider relationship was what I wanted in my career. I thought I was going to be Iron Man and help thousands of people across the world with my inventions, but I realized I’m more of a Spiderman. Your friendly neighborhood Spiderman helping one person at a time. Other than medicine, I enjoy spending time with friends and family whenever I can. Fun fact, I was a former competitive dancer in both high school and college and directed teams at both levels. I love to workout, play video games, watch anime, go to music festivals, play golf, and yap. I’m an amateur plant dad and just picked up meditation so fingers crossed I can keep it up.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I got my BS in Bioengineering at UCR, my MS in Medical Device Engineering at the Keck Graduate Institute in Claremont, and finally my DO at Touro University Nevada with multiple Dean’s Honor Lists.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I wanted to go to a program where I felt the residents were truly supported. During my interview I felt that supportive culture from the faculty and knew that if given the opportunity to train here I would be provided with a nurturing and healthy environment to hone my skills as an Emergency Medicine physician. The location is also great for me since I wanted to be closer to my family.
Arman Virabov, MD
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Riverside
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University, School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. I grew up knowing I wanted to become an emergency medicine doctor but really fell in love with the field when I worked as an ED scribe during college. Outside of medicine I love to spend my time outdoors, whether it be hiking, walking, or relaxing at the beach. In my free time I like to travel, try new coffee shops and restaurants, and spend time with family and friends.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Throughout medical school, I volunteered as the triage coordinator for a street clinic in Downtown Los Angeles and helped provide free medical care to the Skid Row community. Working closely with those experiencing homelessness deepened my understanding of how social and structural barriers impact health outcomes, and inspired me to pursue a Master of Public Health alongside my medical degree. For my practicum project, I created a directory of nearby clinics that accept uninsured and underinsured patients to help connect the community to long-term primary care and ensure proper follow-up. In recognition of my commitment to community service, I was nominated by my peers and inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I knew I wanted to train at Eisenhower by the end of my first shift on my audition rotation. I rotated through both emergency medicine and EM ultrasound here and was impressed by the diverse pathology and high acuity patients I saw on each shift. All the attendings, residents, nurses, and staff I interacted with made me feel welcomed, included, and valued both inside and outside the hospital. Most importantly, everyone was approachable and created an environment to learn and succeed in as a resident. Eisenhower quickly became a home away from home for me, and I feel so fortunate to continue my training here!
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