Ashraf Zadshir, MD, is Board Certified in Family Medicine and is an HIV specialist. She is associate Professor at the school of medicine of St George’s University and assistant Professor at University of California Riverside School of Medicine.
Dr. Zadshir attended medical school in Dusseldorf, Germany. After relocating to the United States, she completed a residency program in family medicine at USC-California Medical Center in Los Angeles. While working at Borrego Health, she pursued and completed a fellowship program in HIV Medicine. She then founded and became Director of Graduate Medical Education for Borrego Health. She has practice medicine in Riverside County for over 12 years.
Along with seeing patients, Dr. Zadshir has always been a medical educator and part of a faculty teaching young physicians. She has been part of Eisenhower’s Center for Family Medicine, educating residents in various aspects of family medicine and primary care since the inception of Family Medicine Residency program in 2013.
As a researcher, Dr Zadshir has multiple publications in major accredited journals such as JAMA focusing on hypertension and chronic kidney disease.
In 2006, on the occasion of International Women’s Day, Dr Zadshir was selected as Woman-of-the-Year by the Governor and the California Assembly in Sacramento, and she received the highly respected “Woman of the Year” Award for her dedication to people of California.
Growing up, there was never a question that Dr. Zadshir would become a physician. With many members of her family being doctors, she grew up seeing the positive things they accomplished in helping people regain their health and serving those in need. “During medical school, I was on track to become an internal medicine physician and in fact served as a hospitalist for few years,” states Dr. Zadshir. Upon coming to the United States, she decided to pursue a family medicine residency as it was the broadest area of study possible, covering all ages.
Dr Zadshir is passionate about education and community services. She believes “Doctors are mental and physical healers and for that reason we need to have passion, courage and dedication to help those in need.”
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 773-1221
Fax: (760) 773-4399
Specialties: Emergency Medicine
Yrs In Practice: 1
Yrs on Staff: 1
Medical School: Loyola Stritch School of Medicine
Residency: Kaweah Delta District Hospital
Fellowship: Desert Regional Medical Center
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 773-1221
Fax: (760) 773-4399
Specialties: Emergency Medicine
Yrs In Practice: 1
Yrs on Staff: 1
Medical School: University of Texas Health Science Center
Residency: University of California Irvine
Fellowship: University of California Irvine
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Southern California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Pennsylvania
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Raised in Southern California since teenage years, I have moved to several places for school, career and school, and now career. I don’t prefer having adventures, but if it comes, I will embrace it with faith and courage. I am very much interested in integrative medicine and whole-person healing. I am also an amateur poet and artist.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: College and Medical School
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I had a great impression of Eisenhower during its interview, and prior experience at AAFP conference. I am very thankful to match here! Actually two words may summarize: people and location!
Specialties: Emergency Medicine
Languages: Spanish
Yrs In Practice: 2
Yrs on Staff: 2
Medical School: University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Residency: University of California Irvine
Fellowship: University of California Irvine
Dulce Maria S Oandasan, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
45280 Seeley Drive, 2nd Floor
La Quinta, CA 92253
Phone: (760) 834-7920
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Dr. Oandasan is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician and holds a Degree of Fellow from the American Academy of Family Physicians. She has 10 years of experience in academic medicine teaching medical students and residents in the Department of Family Medicine. For seven years, she worked as Assistant Clinical Professor at the Texas A & M University Health Science Center in Central Texas, where she also completed her residency training, and as Senior Staff Physician at the Baylor Scott & White Healthcare System.
Prior to joining Eisenhower as Associate Program Director of its Family Residency Program, she worked for three years at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine as Assistant Clinical Professor. She helped with its mission to improve healthcare access to the underserved population of Coachella Valley by providing hands-on patient care, teaching residents in its new Family Medicine Residency Program, and participating in multiple school-related activities both on campus and in the local community.
Dr. Oandasan completed an executive educational program with certification in Advanced Intercultural Management and Executive Leadership and Management at the University of Notre Dame. College of Business. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology and a strong background in Clinical Laboratory Science and Management. Her special interests include women’s health, pediatric care and laboratory medicine as it relates to preventive, and chronic care of all patient groups.
Dr. Oandasan chose the specialty of family medicine because “I know that with this specialty, I can do more for my patients anytime, anywhere, and there are many choices when it comes to practicing in this field. I also feel confident helping as a physician when natural disaster strikes. This reminds me of that time when the relief shelters for evacuees of Hurricanes Katrina and at another time, Ike and Rita, needed volunteers. Making the decision to do it was easy because as a family physician, I have with me the spirit of volunteerism and the mindset that I can take care of practically any patient one way or another.”
Why Academic Medicine? “This keeps me motivated to stay current on new evidence relating to the care of our patients which, in my opinion, helps me in getting better at what I do as a doctor. I also teach with the hope that, in the process of educating the next generation of doctors, at least one of them would be inspired to teach, too.”
Specialties: Family Medicine*
Languages: English, Tagalog
Yrs in Practice: 13
Yrs on Staff: 5
Professional Education Medical School: Our Lady of Fatima University College of Medicine
Internship: Texas A&M University Health Science Center
Residency: Texas A&M University Health Science Center
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Family Medicine
Resident 3
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Santa Clarita, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UCLA
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University, School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I always hoped to return to California after going to SGU. I heard wonderful things about Eisenhower throughout my clinical rotations and fell in love with the program after interviewing here. I am very passionate about LGBTQ+ health and urgent care. In my free time, I love plant-based cooking and catching up on my favorite tv shows.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Matching at Eisenhower!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I really loved the supportive work environment here. My hometown is also just a short drive away!
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Saltillo Coahuila, Mexico
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Universidad Autonoma de Coahuila
ABOUT ME: I was born in Morelia, Mexico and raised in a Saltillo, a town in the northeast of Mexico. I spent the last few years in Dallas, Texas, working in clinical research and cheering on the Mavericks and the Cowboys! I am a huge advocate of community health and serving the underprivileged for their healthcare needs. When I am not working, I am spending time with my daughter and family, listening to an audiobook, or scoping out new restaurants!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Ocelotl award for outstanding medical student; Established the first, on campus, scribe program, for medical students in need of work, which would allow them to simultaneously learn, practice and master the use of medical terminology in English.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Because it feels like a home! The sense of community and heart warming friendliness of the faculty and staff, is everything I was looking for in a residency program. I believe family medicine is the foundation to solid health care and cannot wait to train at Eisenhower Health to become an outstanding physician.
Infectious Disease / HIV Medicine
Dr. Gaultier is Board Certified in Infectious Disease and is an HIV specialist seeing patients at the Eisenhower Health Center at Rimrock in Palm Springs. He grew up in France and relocated to the United States to complete his studies, receiving his medical degree from UCLA Medical School. He then completed his residency program in Internal Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and a fellowship in Infectious Disease at UCLA-Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Additionally, he has enjoyed teaching interns, residents and fellows for the last 27 years in infectious disease, and was assistant clinical professor of medicine at UCLA Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Hospital.
Dr. Gaultier’s stepfather was a general practice physician and was influential in his decision to pursue a career in medicine. During his medical school rotations, Dr. Gaultier became interested in the specialty of infectious diseases, HIV in particular. “During the late 1980s, HIV dominated the scene, and there began to be a focus on research and care in treating the disease,” states Dr. Gaultier. “I began doing clinical research under Dr. David Ho, the leading research HIV scientist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center at the time. This amazing experience significantly shaped my future career decisions.”
Dr. Gaultier has over 34 years of experience in working with HIV patients. As a proactive HIV manager, Dr. Gaultier looks holistically and critically at his patients’ medical histories. “Managing the toxicity of HIV meds is a priority. I strive to mitigate the effects of their long-term use,” explains Dr. Gaultier.
Dr. Gaultier takes a great deal of satisfaction in his relationships with patients and strives be a partner in their care.
Eisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 773-1221
Google Map · Campus Map
Kenneth Lichtenstein, MD, is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases and focuses his practice in research. After receiving his medical degree at the University of Colorado, Dr. Lichtenstein went on to complete a residency program in internal medicine and a fellowship in infectious diseases at the University of Colorado Affiliated Hospitals.
As a boy, Dr. Lichtenstein always respected life and living things and was planning on a career as a veterinarian. However, while in high school he witnessed a fatal motorcycle accident and felt completely helpless in his inability to provide aid as he waited for the emergency service professionals to arrive. It was then that Dr. Lichtenstein resolved to go to medical school.
“During my medical training, I was influenced by my mentors who were skilled in diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases – which guided me toward this specialty,” states Dr. Lichtenstein. “Once I started my medical practice, I assumed I would go to a third world country where infectious diseases were so prevalent in order to make a real difference. Then the AIDS epidemic broke out in the U.S. and I stayed to care for the many individuals who became afflicted with this disease.”
Dr.Lichtenstein has spent most of his 32+ years in practice caring for HIV/AIDS patients.
“Initially, HIV/AIDS was a death sentence and I had to learn to help my patients die with dignity. However, the advances in medicine over the years have been dramatic and HIV is now a chronic condition that can be successfully managed,” Dr. Lichtenstein states.
Dr. Lichtenstein sees his relationship with patients as a respectful partnership. “I am not autocratic or paternalistic; rather I see my role as an educator – providing information and options to my patients. They choose one of the options – I will only intervene if I believe a patient is making a decision that could cause them harm,” explains Dr. Lichtenstein. “Another important attitude in how I practice medicine is that I see everyone – from nurses, administrative personnel to janitors – as an equal part of the health care team, all deserving respect.”
Dr. Lichtenstein is a committed environmentalist and believes in “green” living. He drives an electric vehicle, lives in a solar-powered house and (weather permitting) he walks to work.
Specialties: Infectious Disease*, HIV Medicine
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 42
Yrs on Staff: 5
Medical School: University of Colorado Health Science Center
Internship: University of Colorado Hlth Sciences
Residency: University of Colorado Hlth Sciences
Fellowship: University of Colorado School of Medicine GME
*Board Certified Specialty
Family Medicine
Obstetrics
Aimmee Chin, MD, is Board Certified in Family Medicine Obstetrics, seeing patients at the Eisenhower George and Julia Argyros Health Center in La Quinta.
Dr. Chin earned her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and completed a residency program in family medicine at Eisenhower Health. She then completed a surgical obstetrics fellowship program at Clinica Medicos in association with the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis.
Dr. Chin originally pursued engineering, but was always drawn to the health sciences. When her father became seriously ill, she was inspired to pursue medicine. While in rotations during medical school, she became drawn to obstetrics, pediatrics and family medicine, gaining great satisfaction in the notion of establishing long-term relationships with patients and their families. She loved the joyous experience in delivering babies while in residency and thought that additional training in obstetrics would provide a more comprehensive aspect to practicing family medicine.
“A family medicine physician has the opportunity to know their patients throughout all the phases in their lifetime,” stated Dr. Chin. “I strive to know my patients, especially throughout their pregnancy and delivery, which allows me to be a better family physician taking care of families in its truest definition.”
Family Medicine
Chad Braun, MD, is Board Certified in Family Medicine and sees patients at the Eisenhower Health Center at Rimrock in Palm Springs. Dr. Braun is welcoming and experienced in caring for all patients, with extensive experience caring for LGBTQ+ patients – including a focus on sexual health, HIV care and PrEP. His passion is providing comprehensive, stigma-free health care for members of the local community.
After graduating from medical school, Dr. Braun completed a residency program in family medicine at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. He also completed a faculty development fellowship in family medicine at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Health Professions Education at the University of Illinois Chicago.
Along with seeing patients, Dr. Braun has always been a medical educator and part of a faculty teaching young physicians. He is part of our Center for Family Medicine, educating residents in various aspects of primary care. “Growing up in a small town in Ohio, I was always interested in science and was inspired by my family’s primary care physician,” states Dr. Braun. “I saw someone who helped others and made an impact for the better. I also come from a family of educators, so when I was attending medical school I quickly saw how a career in medical education was a natural fit for me.”
Family medicine interests Dr. Braun because, “I get to do a little bit of everything and I like the diversity of issues I get to deal with from patient-to-patient.” Dr. Braun sees his relationships with patients as a partnership and helps his patients become informed, involved and self-directed in their health care. “I want to understand my patients’ goals, what is important to them, and I want them to feel heard and satisfied with their health plan.”
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Laguna Beach, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University, San Bernardino
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Saigon, Vietnam. My family moved to Laguna Beach, CA when I turned 16 so my siblings and I could finish high school and attend university in the U.S. During my free time, I enjoy going to Target and Costco for the vibes. One fun fact about me is that I could eat hot soup even if it’s 130 degrees outside! I love hanging out with my family and friends, completing escape rooms, watching 90 day Fiancé, online shopping and decorating my house!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: During medical school, I had to move to 4 different states and a whole new country. As if that wasn’t hard enough, 2 out of 4 years of my medical school journey took place during the pandemic but I was determined to graduate with high honors – and I did!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? During undergrad, I had the opportunity to shadow a couple of physicians at Eisenhower and immediately knew this is where I belong. The passionate care, positive attitude and knowledge they possess instilled in me the desire to attend residency at Eisenhower so I could learn how to be a well-rounded physician just as they are.”
Addiction Medicine Fellow
Addiction Medicine Fellowship
HOMETOWN: San Jose, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC Davis
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean
ABOUT ME: I am a first-generation American born and raised in the Bay Area in San Jose, CA to a loving family that immigrated to the USA from India via the UK in the early 1960s. My passion for medicine stems from the strong medical presence in my family including multiple uncles and cousins of mine. They are my role models and are the kind of doctors I aspire to be.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I look forward to my time at Eisenhower and getting to know my fellow co-residents and future patients! Also, I like turtles and all the turtles in the ponds at Eisenhower.
Addiction Medicine Fellow
Addiction Medicine Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Hollywood, CA
MEDICAL SCHOOL: SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Center
ABOUT ME: I have been playing the piano since I was only five years old, and I have a passion for mysteries (both novels and movies), interior decorating, and trying out new foods. I enjoy spending my free time at escape rooms, playing tennis and binging the latest show on Netflix.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: In 2017, I became a licensed Assistant Physician (MD) in Missouri. Missouri is the only state that allows recently graduated medical students to become licensed and practice family medicine in medically underserved areas in Missouri without completing residency.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I chose Eisenhower Medical Center because of the camaraderie between the residents and the genuine interest in the well-being and success of the residents both during and at the completion of residency.
Infectious Disease Fellow
Infectious Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Walnut, CA
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: Zayn is a graduate of Eisenhower Health’s Internal Medicine Residency Program . As a transmasculine-of-center individual, (pronouns he/him/his), Zayn aspires to become a provider in transgender health and to use the skills acquired in his medical studies to serve marginalized groups, especially the LGBTQIA community.
At Saint George’s University (SGU), Zayn was co-president of Pride and Equality, the LGBTQ organization on campus, as well as the president of SGU’s chapter of Physicians for Human Rights. He believes that through creating opportunities for education about sensitive topics in a non-judgmental space, we can bridge understanding between groups that have chronically been misunderstood and misrepresented. Zayn hopes to implement inclusive practices such as using the patient’s chosen name and pronouns, as well as facilitating workshops for other health care providers to become more knowledgeable about transgender care, thereby improving accessibility for transgender patients.
Beyond medicine, Zayn is a proud member of the LGBTQ dragonboat team Prism Dragons, based in Long Beach, CA. He is an avid parkour and breakdancing enthusiast, and he also enjoys Olympic-style sparring in Taekwondo, including coaching youth to cultivate their love of martial arts. He also enjoys evening strolls and adventures with his family and chihuahuas Bambi and Happy.
Zayn received his undergraduate degrees in Neuroscience and Physiology, B.S. and Psychology, B.A. from University of California, San Diego, his MD from St. George’s University, Grenada, and recently completed his residency program at Eisenhower Health, Rancho Mirage, where he will complete a two-year fellowship in Infectious Diseases. After completing his fellowship, he is interested in practicing LGBTQ+ health care with an emphasis on gender affirmation therapy.
FAVORITE PLACE IN THE COACHELLA VALLEY: Palm Springs Aerial Tram and Mount San Jacinto State Park
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower Health places great emphasis on nurturing and cultivating the skills and passions of their residents to hone their individual practice of medicine through abundant opportunities, resources and support.
Pulmonary Fellow
Pulmonary Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Houston, TX
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Houston
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born in India and moved to Houston, Texas with my family when I was 11 years old. I am the first and the only physician (so far) from both sides of the family. I learned how to cook at the age of 11 from my mom when we first moved to the US and it is now one of my favorite ways to de-stress. I love the journey that I have had to become a doctor and specifically a pulmonologist. My love of medicine started from a young age and there has been no greater desire in my life than to treat and serve others. My training has taken me from St Martin to Bakersfield to New York and now finally to the Palm Springs region.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Matching into fellowship! Also winning “Scholar of the Year” and the “Robert S. Mosser Award for Excellence in Internal Medicine” upon finishing residency.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The perfect mix of beautiful weather, intense pathology, and a patient population that needs support from the medical system.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Kirkland, WA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Chapman University
ABOUT ME: Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, I decided to move towards the sunshine for undergrad in California, medical school in Arizona, and now I’m so happy I get to stay in the sun for residency training at Eisenhower. I’m excited by the versatility Family Medicine has to offer and enjoy connecting with patients of all age groups while providing compassionate care and sustaining meaningful relationships. I am especially interested in research topics surrounding women’s health, pediatrics, osteopathy, and preventative medicine. In my free time, I love traveling, reading, enjoying theater and live performance, practicing yoga, playing tennis, and spending time with my amazing family, friends, and (of course!) my dogs.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Serving and learning from underserved health populations throughout medical school at a FQHC network based out of Flagstaff, AZ.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I was grateful for the opportunity to participate in a clinical rotation at Eisenhower during my final year of medical school where I experienced first-hand how kind and welcoming everyone is at this program. In addition to learning so much during this rotation, I understood how well the program facilitates a holistic approach to health care within a supportive environment that emphasizes the well-being of residents. Being at Eisenhower is very full circle for me as well because I spent a lot of time as a child in the community where my grandparents used to live, which is quite literally right across the street from the hospital. I feel my grandparents would be excited for me to have made my way back to Rancho Mirage, providing care to patients in a community and place they loved so much.
Resident 1
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Ben Tre Vietnam
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Riverside
ABOUT ME: My family and I immigrated to the USA in 1991 because my father was a political prisoner after the Vietnam War. I lived in Glendale, Ca until I graduated from Glendale High School. I moved to Riverside, Ca where I attended UCR for my undergraduate degree in Biology and Business Administration. I had the intention of going to medical school but when I came across Respiratory Therapy at Crafton Hills College, I decided to pursue that career because it was faster. I was a Respiratory Therapist for 12 years at Riverside Community Hospital and during this time, I got married, got my MBA, and was involved in teaching Respiratory Care to both students and staff. I felt I had plateaued as an RT towards the end of my career. With encouragement from my mentors, exposure to residents and medical students, I decided to pursue medical school. My family and I reside in Menifee, Ca. We have one almost 2-year old daughter and we are expecting a boy on July 22, 2022. I enjoy cooking, gardening, basketball, snowboarding, and most of all I enjoy time with my family.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT:
Glendale High School
University of California, Riverside – BS Biology and Business Administration
Crafton Hills College – Respiratory Therapy
Western Governor’s University – MBA, Healthcare Management
Ross University School of Medicine – MD
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I always knew about Eisenhower Health since my Respiratory Therapy career because I had colleagues who worked at both Eisenhower and Riverside Community Hospital. Seldom do I hear any negative feedback. One of my good friends who worked as an Educator at Eisenhower Health always told me how friendly the staff was and hospital support was unrivaled. During my elective rotation, I had the privilege of doing my EM rotation at Eisenhower Health. During the four weeks, I was able to work alongside the EM attendings, staff and residents. I had such a great experience. On top of learning, I experienced a friendly and welcoming environment throughout my elective. The facility made it easy for me to focus on learning as everything else was taken care of. Eisenhower Health was my #1 choice and I am very excited to begin this journey.
Resident 1
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Salt Lake City, UT
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Utah
ABOUT ME: I was born in Wisconsin but was mostly raised in Utah where I spent my free time hiking and biking in the mountains. I like to travel and have future goals of visiting every country in Europe. I enjoy running and have competed in marathons, obstacle courses and, before medical school I organized long distance running events. In my spare time I like to weight lift, cook, and do home renovations. I love EM because of the incredible teamwork and vast variety that it has to offer. My medical areas of interest include wilderness medicine and ultrasound.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: During medical school I was involved in helping undeserved individuals prepare for higher education and mentored them through their academic courses
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The location of the hospital and year around warmth provides the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiast. It is conveniently located to adventures nearby like the beach or mountains. The area attracts a diversity of people from all over who are all very friendly and welcoming.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: New York, NY
ABOUT ME: Having lived in different countries during my years of education, I had the privilege of experiencing interesting cultures, communities, and health care systems. I particularly loved my work in the community caring for underserved populations. In my free time, I enjoy a peaceful jog, a cup of strong java, and visits to areas of historical significance. My interests lie primarily in serving as an internist/primary care provider for my local community.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: My care of patients in the poorer communities of Pakistan gave me a humbling perspective on how much inequality exists in the provision of care; it made me realize just how blessed my colleagues and I were, in regards to the facilities, medications, and other amenities afforded to us
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The friendliness among residents, the warm faculty, the supportive environment, and most importantly, the honor of being able to work and care for a local community.
Resident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: San Diego, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University, San Marcos
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Egypt and immigrated when I was just 13 years old. I have always wanted to follow the footsteps of my mother and father and become a doctor. I’ve always loved working with patients since high school, I would always volunteer at the local hospitals in San Diego. I have three beautiful kitties and one beautiful daughter. I enjoy many outdoor activities and traveling which is another reason I chose to study medicine on Sint Maarten. I love dancing and spending time listening to music.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I have become involved in many community outreach programs during medical school on the island to serve the local communities. I worked with a team of my colleagues to develop a diabetes program for the island to help screen local resident without health insurance . I’ve served on the student governance committee for clinical students to voice concerns and issues that arises while away from Saint Maarten.
BEST MOMENT AT EISENHOWER HEALTH: During the interview at Eisenhower, I enjoyed the culture and the closeness of the residents. I felt welcomed and at home even though it was my first time meeting everyone. Everyone is welcoming and try their absolute best to help you survive residency.
Addiction Medicine Fellow
Addiction Medicine Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Yerevan, Armenia
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University, Barbados
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Family Medicine, Cedar Rapids Medical Education Foundation, Cedar Rapids, IA
Addiction Medicine Fellow
Addiction Medicine Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Morelia, Mexico
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Centro de Estudios Universitarios Escuela de Medicina Xochicalco, Tijuana, Mexico
RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Internal Medicine, Eisenhower Health, Rancho Mirage, CA
POST FELLOWSHIP: Addiction medicine physician, San Ysidro Health, San Diego
Addiction Medicine Fellow
Addiction Medicine Fellowship
HOMETOWN: San Antonia, TX
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Pitzer College in Claremont, California
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean
ABOUT ME: Texas-born, high school in Chicago, college in LA, arrived in Palm Springs via China, Saint Maarten, and NYC. Travel and Sport are my past times.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Honors Society
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Academic excellence and family are the most important factors and Eisenhower Health has given me both.
Addiction Medicine Fellow
Addiction Medicine Fellowship
HOMETOWN: San Antonio, TX
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Texas A&M University College of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I am a recent graduate of family medicine residency. My interests include women’s health, hospital medicine and addiction medicine. Outside of my career, I enjoy going to the gym and weight training. I love spending time with my family, friends and my dogs Sally and Daisy.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I am passionate about education, curriculum development and women’s health. I have participated in projects that highlight the importance of resident education in sexual health and addiction medicine.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower Medical Center and Hazelden Betty Ford are world class institutions due to their commitment in addiction medicine. With the growing need in addiction specialists, I knew this would be the best place to learn and develop my skills.
Infectious Disease Fellow
Infectious Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California Lutheran University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Western University of Health Sciences
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Excited to continue to learn, grow and serve the Coachella Valley.
Infectious Disease Fellow
Infectious Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Arcadia, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California San Diego
ABOUT ME: I was born in a town near Pasadena called Arcadia and went to UC San Diego for undergraduate studies in Microbiology. After completing my medical training, I moved to Seattle to explore the Pacific Northwest and practiced as an primary care provider. Infectious Diseases always interested me and I am happy to return to California to pursue my passion in microbes.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Serving as Chief Resident in my final year of residency.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I am excited to join this program led by passionate faculty and dedicated colleagues in an amazing community!
Sports Medicine Fellow
HOMETOWN: Santa Ana, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, San Diego
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Illinois College of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Born and raised in Southern California, I easily fell in love with sports at a very young age. I have a tremendous passion for competitive sports at all levels, mentoring at-risk youth, weight training, hiking and BBQing with family
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Becoming a first-generation college graduate and the first physician in our family.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The culture at Eisenhower is unlike any other. The level of teaching, endless support from faculty and opportunities for mentorship are first-class. Words can’t express how grateful I am to train here in this environment.
Pulmonary Fellow
Pulmonary Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Cupertino, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Davis, Biomedical Engineering
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University, Grenada
ABOUT ME: I moved to the United States at the age of 13 with my family with the goal of working hard and making a better future for ourselves. My interest in medicine sparked after completing my engineering degree and working for a medical device company. While developing devices and treatment modalities are intellectually stimulating, observing how it impacts a person’s life is far more satisfying. Despite the countless hours sweat, blood, tears and dollars spent towards my training, I do not regret my decision to pursue medicine on bit. During my training as an internal medicine resident, I became interested in pulmonary and critical care medicine. From prescribing inhalers in the calm setting of a clinic to placing an emergent chest tube in the high-acuity intensive care unit, the wide array of patient care opportunities pushed me to pursue a career in this field. I am currently applying to critical care fellowships to complete my training as a pulmonary critical care trained physician.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my wife and dog. I also enjoy playing video games and cooking in my free time.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I have co-authored a number of academic articles that have been published in medical journals and have several more pending publication.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I had an amazing experience during my three years of residency at Eisenhower Medical Center, so I decided to stay for 2 additional years of pulmonary fellowship. What appeals to me most is the amount of support we get from the rest of the team (nurses, RTs, social workers, case manager, etc.) and the team mentality which ultimately benefits the patient. This kind of support from the staff allows me to focus on physician duties so we can provide the best quality of care for our patients. While some folks prefer the busy city life, I personally enjoy the relaxed, laid-back traffic free streets of the Coachella Valley.
Pulmonary Fellow
Pulmonary Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Santa Barbara
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Tel Aviv University, Sackler School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I am a budding Pulmonologist, Internal Medicine Doctor, former ballerina, and new mom who is passionate about patient care, medical advancement, and lifelong learning.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Finally completing several research projects in Interventional Pulmonology with fellow residents and fellows.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I was lucky enough to have matched here for Internal Medicine in 2016 and was blessed to have mentors who create4d an environment for continued learning and training.
Pulmonary Fellow
Pulmonary Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Damascus, Syria
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Damascus Faculty of Medicine
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Dedicated faculty and a warm teaching environment. I appreciate the wide diversity of patients and the friendly staff.
Pulmonary Fellow
Pulmonary Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Dearborn, Michigan
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Michigan College of Osteopathic Medicine
ABOUT ME: Michigan born and educated, and a Wolverine at heart. (Go Blue!) I’m a first generation Lebanese-American and come from a family of nine. I was attracted to medicine by the examples set by my older sisters who are also in the field. After surviving Michigan’s subzero winters for 28 years, my wife and I decided to take our talents somewhere a little warmer. I enjoy hiking, golfing, traveling, cooking and watching all kinds of sports, especially Michigan Football!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Winning the Resident of the Year Award/Scholarship at West Anaheim Medical Center.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The state-of-the-art facility, incredible support system, and friendliness of the faculty and staff!
Pulmonary Fellow
Pulmonary Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Mashhad, Iran
ABOUT ME:
I am passionate about public health and patient-centered medical care. As a Persian who immigrated to the U.S., I consider myself a global citizen. My family (wife and two children) are multicultural and multilingual. I strive to provide equitable, excellent, and compassionate care regardless of someone’s creed, culture or color.
I enjoy playing soccer/football, traveling, and learning about different cultures/cuisines.
Outside of medicine I love sports, music and swimming.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT:
– Internal Medicine trained in Griffin Hospital, Yale-Affiliated, CT, Class of2022
– Resident of the year from Internal Medicine Department 2021
– Earl Baker, MD Humanism Award,2021 Department of Medicine
– Intern of the year from Case management Department 2020
– Intern of the year from Nursing Staff Department 2020
– “”Hush Puppy Award”” of Hardworking Physician 2020
– “The Policy and Practice Impact Award”, George Washington University, DC 2019
– National presentations at American Thoracic Society, Society of Hospital Medicine, American
– Public Health Association, American College of Physicians.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: State of the art facility, supportive leadership; a friendly, skilled, diverse group of pulmonary fellows; and the cordial/approachable faculty and staff. Finally, living in Southern California’s Coachella Valley can be fairly referred to as “paradise.”
Pulmonary Fellow
Pulmonary Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Atbara, Sudan
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Khartoum
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Outstanding resident of the year.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Diversity of pulmonary fellowship program is unique. Friendly environment and state-of-the-art facility.
Pulmonary Fellow
Pulmonary Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: South Barrington, IL
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Boston University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Trinity School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago and have had the opportunity to pursue my studies and residency training all across the country before finding my way to the Inland Empire for fellowship! Practicing medicine allows me to combine my passion for lifelong learning and the sciences with the privilege of establishing strong relationships with my patients in order to work together to improve their lives. Outside of medicine, I enjoy traveling, playing the violin, tennis, volunteering, cooking, reading, and spending time with my family and friends.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating medical school with honors, serving as Chief Medical Resident for my residency program and getting involved in many hospital committees, presenting at the American Thoracic Society Conference.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The camaraderie, professionalism, and dedication to patient care that I sensed amongst the faculty and fellows in addition to the strong academic training and mentorship is what drew me to Eisenhower during my interview. Not only will I have the chance to practice Pulmonology in the beautiful Coachella valley, but I will also be able to become part of a strong interprofessional team in a welcoming environment. I am thrilled to be joining the Eisenhower community!
Pulmonary Fellow
Pulmonary Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: The Woodlands, TX
MEDICAL SCHOOL: The University of Texas at Austin
ABOUT ME: I grew up in Texas and went to University of Texas at Austin. My pursuit of medicine took me abroad and I finished clinicals in the Midwest. I graduated from two residencies, FM & IM, from Indiana University School of Medicine. I served as an assistant Professor of clinical medicine at IU as well. My passion for Pulmonary pathophysiology and ICU medicine leads me down the path for this fellowship. I’m a fierce patient safety advocate and love the continuity of relationships with patients that come with outpatient management. I hope to gain valuable experience through inpatient ICU/Consults, getting proficient in procedures including advanced Pulmonary procedures, and developing relationships in the outpatient clinic.
Outside of medicine I love sports, music and swimming.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Finishing two residencies in FM & IM. Send as an assistant Professor of clinical medicine at IU Internal medicine residency. Presented at SCCM, ATS, and Chest.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: Due to strong relationship and clinical support reported by the fellows, chances for procedural training and accomplished faculty I chose to come to Eisenhower for my Fellowship.
Pulmonary Fellow
Pulmonary Disease Fellowship
HOMETOWN: Chillan, Chile
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Chile
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Chile
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Chile. I moved to the U.S. for more advanced training. I have not only met that goal, but I’ve had the chance to meet great physicians and explore either coast. I like and enjoy outdoor activities, astronomy.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Internal Medicine trained in New York, Infectious Diseases trained at UC Irvine
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? An awesome group of pulmonologists in a thrilling/magic location.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Bermuda Dunes, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Lebanese University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Lebanese University
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Lebanon. I enjoy traveling, exploring new cultures and cuisines as well as spending time with my husband and dog ‘Fibi’.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Completed Family Medicine Residency in Lebanon.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? As a prospect resident I enjoyed working in the research department at Luci Curci Cancer Center at Eisenhower Health. I have met great patient care centered teams and became part of Clinical Trials that were done at Eisenhower Medical Center. I saw and felt the commitment in elevating the standards of evidence-based guidelines leading to not only saving the lives of the patients but also improving their quality of life. This experience along with me meeting welcoming and dedicated Family Medicine faculty and residents at medical conferences reassured me that Eisenhower Health was the best place to be in becoming a well-rounded Family Physician. I am proud to be part of this family.
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: San Antonio, Texas
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Texas A&M University, San Antonio
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University, School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born in Tlapacoyan, Mexico, but moved at a very young age to Redondo Beach, California where I spent most of my childhood. As an adult, I moved to San Antonio, Texas, where I have lived until I once again moved to California to join Eisenhower. I enjoy traveling, including spending extensive periods of time in Mexico where I have a big family. Traveling has allowed me to get to know new people and different cultures and customs which is a passion of mine. In my free time I like to explore, cook, box and catch up with all of the great shows that are now available on TV. I am fluent in Spanish and look forward to everyday that I get to come to Eisenhower and help keep the community healthy.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Medical School was the most rewarding experience of my life. I was able to participate in community outreach, help treat those in need not only from the U.S. but also from Mexico and Grenada, as well as provide care to underserved populations in Los Angeles.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I knew Eisenhower Medical Center was the place for me because of the great reputation it has for its residency program. Additionally, and just as important, was its reputation for providing excellent patient care.
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Rancho Cucamonga, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Nova Southeastern University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I was born in Cairo, Egypt and then I moved to California with my family around the age of three. After attending college in Florida and medical school in Grenada, I grew to love traveling and going to the beach. My family is a huge part of my life and I enjoy spending time with them whenever I can. I am also huge Lakers fan and enjoy all sports.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Receiving my MD the same week that I matched at Eisenhower.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower Medical Center provides a unique residency experience with its location in the Coachella Valley and diverse patient population. It also provides top of the line clinical exposure, facilities, and teaching. Being around the residents and attendings prior to matching really revealed to me the sense of camaraderie and friendship at this hospital.
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: San Jose, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Duquesne University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine-Bradenton
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in San Jose, California, and moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for undergrad. After a few years of battling the cold winters, I traded my snow boots for a pair of flip-flops and completed medical school in Florida. Outside of school, I am an avid outdoors adventurer, movie fanatic, and cooking enthusiast. As I start residency at Eisenhower, I am looking forward to evolving into an exceptional and confident family physician.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I was featured in a PBS documentary that discussed how women in medicine have risen above adversity since the mid-1800s to become prominent figures in the medical field, and how their fight for equality has since changed the profession as a whole.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I was drawn to Eisenhower’s dedication to creating a nurturing and positive educational environment for their residents. Everyone I met showed a sense of pride in working here, and I am excited to be joining the Eisenhower family.
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Orange County, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Tulane University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Louisiana State University Health Science Center
ABOUT ME: I was born in Orange County, CA and grew up in a naval household where I moved to several different states throughout my childhood. I now spend a lot of time traveling and seeing what adventures lie ahead! Some interests include rock climbing, hiking, chess, and other board games.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I helped design a dual lumen catheter that is now being patented by my medical institution.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Aside from my goal of coming back to California to practice medicine, I am interested in the Sports Medicine Fellowship offered at Eisenhower. The faculty, staff, and residents are culturally diverse and have a strong passion for family medicine. Additionally, it would be great to find people to golf with in a city known for its beautiful golf courses.
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Sonora, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Southern Adventist University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Loma Linda University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I spent most of my life growing up in a small town in NorCal in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. I think growing up in the country really made me love hiking mountains, running outdoors, playing sports and pets. For as long as I can remember, I have had an obsession with dogs and am looking forward to when I’ll be able to get another one someday. Music is another big part of my life and something I enjoy doing. I play the violin and piano.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I did summer research between my first and second year with the department of Preventive Medicine. From our study, a poster was made and presented at a convention.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? What really impressed me most about Eisenhower Medical Center was the people that work here. The feedback that I would hear from people that work here was overwhelmingly positive. Residency is hard in itself so I really wanted a program that really took care of their residents, like Eisenhower does.
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Riverside, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Cal Poly – San Luis Obispo
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Western University – College of Medicine of the Pacific
ABOUT ME: I love anything that gets me outside. My fiancé and I couples matched into the area and are excited to learn as much as we can.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I hope to dive deep into functional medicine as I believe personalized medicine is the future.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? My fiancé and I wanted to find an area with good people that was still close to family. That, combined with wanting great teaching is why I chose Eisenhower.
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Philippines
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University, Los Angeles
MEDICAL SCHOOL: A.T. Still University, School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona
ABOUT ME: I am patiently waiting for the weather to be cool enough for us to be outside and enjoy the beauty of the desert
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Feeling the aloha spirit, connecting with the people, learning the culture, and serving the community as part of the largest FQHC in Hawaii
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I was a volunteer here and have always appreciated the staff/ fellow volunteers’ pride in being part of Eisenhower Medical Center. During my interview, I felt that the program is genuine about its focus on resident wellness and education, and so far it has exceeded my expectations
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University, Long Beach
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born in Lynwood, California and grew up in Los Angeles. I worked as a Radiologic Technologist for 10 years at various hospitals. I enjoy going to the gym, hiking, traveling and spending time with my family and friends.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower provides a supportive environment that embraces the holistic aspect to health care and healing.
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: San Jose, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Scripps College
MEDICAL SCHOOL: A. T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in San Jose until I was 15, after which I moved to India and graduated from an international high school. After college, I worked as a full time middle school science teacher in San Jose where I further developed my passion for addressing social determinants of health through education and advocacy. In my free time, I love to travel and experience new cultures and communities. You can often find me outdoors hiking, taking nature photos and exploring new restaurant. If it’s too hot, I’ll probably be doing yoga, painting, binge-watching TV shows or baking (and taste testing, of course).
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Presenting a student made Psychiatry Reference Guide at the National Association for the Community Health Centers conference in 2019.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I was fortunate enough to complete a Geriatrics rotation at Eisenhower and immediately felt at home in the program! Not only were the residents, faculty and staff truly invested in my long term learning and growth as a physician, but also the general program atmosphere felt like a family. I can’t wait to learn from and train with the wonderfully diverse patient populations in the Coachella Valley.
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Riverside, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of California, Riverside School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I am a born and bred SoCal girl who loves her kitty, Maya. I love spending time with family and friends and live to build relationships with people. I moved to Boston for college where I learned that I cannot live without the sun and that I cannot live with snow. I have been living my best life back home in SoCal and am so excited to be joining Eisenhower!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: As an MS2, I participated in the SIMS Fellowship at Betty Ford Center for Addiction Treatment. I also got a 5 on my AP Chem exam in high school and will brag about that forever.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I chose Eisenhower Medical Center because from the moment I began my interview, I felt like I was home. Eisenhower’s mission and clinical priorities are incredibly aligned with my own, and I felt like I had found my people. I have a strong passion for mental health in primary care, advocacy for foundational addiction treatment, and healthcare for underserved and minority populations, and these are all things that Eisenhower focuses on in their training. I am so excited to be joining the Eisenhower FM family!
Resident 2
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Hemet, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Los Angeles
MEDICAL SCHOOL: A. T. Still University- School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona
ABOUT ME: I am from the Inland Empire, but have also lived in Chicago and Arizona (for the weather of course). I enjoy baking, practicing yoga, hiking, watching foreign films and spending time with my wonderful family and friends.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I was the first person in my family to graduate from college and was fortunate to have a full scholarship. Seeing my family’s reaction was the best part!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? After interacting with such approachable people during my interview day, I knew that I would have the resources and support to thrive in my learning. The obvious camaraderie was important to me as was working in the community that I am from.
Resident 3
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC San Diego
MEDICAL SCHOOL: AUC School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Grateful to be in the desert! Basketball is a must as well as friends, restaurants, and FIFA. With the quarantine situation I have become an avid walker. I love forming a sense of community and having strong connection to the city I’m living in and I’m looking forward calling Rancho Mirage home for the next 3 years!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Working at USC Keck School of Medicine in the Multiple Sclerosis specialty clinic before starting residency
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? A plethora of learning opportunities, comraderies, and unparalleled support from staff and residents to reach your specific goals. All the resident’s enthusiasm for the program during my interview was a true reflection of the culture here.
Resident 3
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Khumjung, Nepal
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Santa Barbara
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Growing up with a mom as a cook and working four years as a sous chef, I have always loved cooking. It not only serves as a way to relive stress but also gives me the freedom to express myself through various ingredients. Additionally, being out in nature has always brought me tremendous joy, whether it be hiking, camping, rafting, or snowboarding. I have trekked Everest base camp twice, and its breathtaking scenery and enormous size still humble me.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I graduated with high honor roll from medical school. I was a track leader for my core clinical site and served as liaison between fellow medical students and the administration I organized numerous events focused on student mental health and residency preparedness during this role. I have had numerous publications through my medical career, mostly focused on infectious disease.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The residency program and its leadership were very impressive. I knew that coming here would give me the best chance to be the best physician possible.
Resident 3
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Palos Verdes Estates, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University, Fullerton (CSUF)
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University, School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I developed a strong passion for the game of basketball as an athlete, coach and a huge Lakers fan since 3rd grade! I also enjoy lifting weights and trying new workouts at the gym. When I have the time, I actually love cooking because it can be very calming. When I go back home to see my family, I enjoy playing with my dogs. No matter how stressful life can be, I try to have a well-balanced life with family, friends and exercise to keep me going every single day. I sustained several sports injuries throughout my life and those experiences shifted my focus towards sports medicine. I also have a passion for dermatology and will keep that door open as well.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating medical school Magna Cum Laude, receiving my MD degree, and getting matched into residency.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I felt that Eisenhower represented a reciprocal relationship among colleagues with a commitment to sustain a collaborative, positive and trusting environment which is critical to the overall success of any team.
Resident 3
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Buffalo, NY
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University at Buffalo
MEDICAL SCHOOL: New York Medical College
ABOUT ME: Life is about progress, and experiences shape the road on which we become who we are now. I consider myself fortunate enough to have traveled to a handful of places in the world and most of the continental states, from this I’ve come to recognize that people are really quite the same no matter where you go. It’s a beautiful thing, that no matter the culture or identity of an individual, we have a great deal in common with others. As a physician I aim to provide care to people for who they are, and to exchange understanding with knowledge to improve the health of those who seek out or are in need of treatment.
In my personal time I enjoy the company of my family and friends, engaging with nature, live entertainment, gardening and the comfort of a good chair.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Being of service to my peers in medical school student government.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The educators and community at Eisenhower felt welcoming the moment I arrived for my interview, and the opportunities to learn and grow here in the desert seemed to fit what I was searching for in this new phase of my life.
Resident 3
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Boca Raton, FL
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Southern California
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean
ABOUT ME: My passion as a family medicine physician is to genuinely connect with patients on an individual level, positively influence lifestyle choices, and provide evidence-based medical solutions to improve quality of life. At the end of every visit my goal is to instill an unequivocal sense of relief, confidence, and empathy for all of my patients. Outside of medicine I am an avid hiker and have been to 16 national parks (and counting)! Life Motto: The heart never speaks, but you must listen to it to know!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: President of the student-run organization called Emergency Medical Services of USC that provides first aid BLS support during large on-campus events.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower Medical Center provides an unparalleled experience in terms of clinical exposure, education, facilities, and camaraderie. I especially enjoy the unique environment that fosters learning in the diverse Coachella Valley community.
Resident 3
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Montclair, NJ
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Rutgers University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Keck School of Medicine of USC
ABOUT ME: Born and raised in New Jersey, I went to Rutgers University for my undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences. During my junior year, I came to Los Angeles for a research opportunity at USC, enjoying the experience so much that I applied to the Keck School of Medicine right after. After graduating Rutgers, I moved to California to start medical school at Keck. I valued the four years spent caring for an underserved population, serving on the board as Co-President of SNMA, and implementing QI projects to address the medical issues within the community I served. During my third year, I had the chance to rotate through Eisenhower Medical Center, and I identified strongly with the program and its mission statement. I was elated to match the following year, and I’m excited to start the next chapter of my life as a physician with Eisenhower’s FM program!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Received a full tuition scholarship to attend the Keck School of Medicine. Co-President of the Student National Medical Association during my 1st and 2nd years of medical school.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower’s commitment to caring for all the needs of a desert community, preparing residents for the rigors of post-graduate employment, and its emphasis on resident wellness were key factors in my decision to be a part of Eisenhower’s Family Medicine Program.
Resident 3
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Glendale, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UCLA
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University, School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: As an Armenian born in Iraq and raised in sunny southern California, I grew up in a household where I was surrounded by various languages, wonderful music, and colorful art, ultimately taking up drawing and painting myself. My diverse upbringing shaped the person I have become today and influenced my holistic approach to family medicine where I address not only my patients’ medical conditions, but also their overall well-being. In my spare time, I enjoy exploring the outdoors, starting new art projects and spending time with my wonderful family.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating medical school the same year as my father graduated from dental school. He also hooded me during my graduation which meant the world to me!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The faculty and staff are so supportive, friendly, and have made my time here so wonderful! They are focused on making sure all of their residents are well taken care of and that we are maximizing our learning every day. I also appreciated the diverse local community and resident group where everyone has the opportunity to bring something fresh and new to the table. Those factors were very important for me when choosing a program and I am so blessed to be a part of the Eisenhower Medical Center family!
Resident 3
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UCLA
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Medical University of Lublin, Poland
ABOUT ME: I am a Southern California native, but I attended my first two years of medical school in Lublin, Poland and had the opportunity to do my clinical rotations in Brooklyn. My particular interests in Family Medicine are Sports Medicine and Urgent Care. Some of my hobbies include playing and watching sports; I especially love basketball and I am a huge Lakers fan.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT:
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? What attracted me to Eisenhower was the faculty’s commitment to resident wellness and providing the residents with the best training. The faculty and residents are amazing and truly care to continuously push us to become better physicians. Being from Southern California, it is truly a blessing to be close to home.
Resident 3
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Corona, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Riverside
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I’m a Southern California native. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing basketball, weightlifting, hiking, comedy, meditation, and reading.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Teaching Histology and Cell Biology during medical school to my peers in group tutoring sessions was a personal highlight for me. Teaching is such a rewarding experience for both teacher and student, and it helped me further solidify my medical knowledge!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The best piece of advice I was given when I interviewed different programs was to really look at the personality of the residents and faculty because wherever I matched, those people would become my family. The beautiful people I met here at Eisenhower made the decision easy for me (the beauty of the hospital and clinic was the cherry on top!).
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Ajloun, Jordan
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Misr University for Science & Technology
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Misr University for Science & Technology
ABOUT ME: I come from a culturally diverse background. I was born in Jordan, raised in Saudi Arabia, studied medicine in Egypt, and finally joined my family in the U.S. This experience shaped my enthusiastic personality and made it possible to easily adapt to different aspects of life. Outside of medicine, I enjoy playing soccer, playing the guitar, hiking, swimming, traveling, and cooking (I might be the best fettuccine alfredo chef in town!).
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Contributing in COVID related research and publishing papers while applying for residency.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? During my interview it was very evident that the community at Eisenhower is a diverse one. From the patient population, to international residents and doctors, to the friendly environment, it was all tremendously inspiring. I was also intrigued by the advanced technology implemented at the hospital. Palm Springs with 300 sunny days a year weather was also an added bonus!
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Tehran
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Iran University of Medical Sciences
ABOUT ME: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also love exploring new cities and getting to know new people.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Participating in several clinical and epidemiology research projects during my research fellowship at Johns Hopkins Hospital and Mayo Clinic. Matching at Eisenhower Health.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Number one would be the people! Everyone from the attending physicians to administrative staff are incredibly friendly. Residents deeply care about each other. They make long days and nights enjoyable.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles
MEDICAL SCHOOL: School of Medicine at Assiut University, Egypt
ABOUT ME: “I often think in music. I live my daydreams in music” -Albert Einstein, physicist/violinist. Being a professional violinist at the cultural palace of Egypt was a delightful honor, but it didn’t keep me from pursuing the ultimate joy of practicing the art of medicine. I’ve lived in Los Angeles, Egypt, Turkey, Italy and Chicago. I love exploring controversial ideas and theology on planet Earth! Believe me when I say that having Turkish coffee after shish kebab creates wonders!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: It’s a bumpy journey that started with getting a free medical education leading to matching at Eisenhower Health; and it’s not the end yet!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? It’s not only an excellent teaching hospital with a unique history, but it’s a diverse family where you feel that you belong. It provides the right settings to build excellent future physicians and creates an environment that ensures a happy yet well-balanced experience. The area is sunny and relaxing with a lot of fun spots to check out.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Yazd, Iran
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Tehran University of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Iran and I moved to United States in 2018.I am feeling blessed about my carrier and I enjoy every single day at work. Beside medicine, I love exploring the nature, playing tennis and collecting antiques.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I have been always interested in gastrointestinal disease and I have started doing research in this field since my medical school. After my immigration to USA, I did postdoc fellowship in colon cancer at Duke University which was an amazing experience and make me even more motivated to peruse my carrier in GI field.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Having outstanding and supportive attending with a friendly environment at work, which can make every challenge, a memorable thing during residency.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Ensenada, Mexico
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Centro Educativo Patria, AC
MEDICAL SCHOOL: ENMYH – Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico City
ABOUT ME: Originally from the Mexican coast. Lived in Chile, Mexico City, La Paz, Las Vegas, San Diego and now happily in Palm Desert, CA. Besides medicine I also love meeting people from different backgrounds, the beach, watersports, camping, playing musical instruments, singing, meditation and exploring the world.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS:
– Percentile 97 GPA in medical school.
– Granted academic excellence scholarship.
– I had the honor to serve my hometown’s community for a year in the busiest ICU in town during the COVID-19 healthcare crisis.
– Matching in Eisenhower Medical Center.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Its collegiality, diversity, state of the art medicine, and wonderful location.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Ahmedabad, India
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Smt. N.H.L. Municipal Medical College, India
ABOUT ME: “In the Happiness of others, lies our own” That’s what paved my path to be a better physician. I was born and raised in India, and I came to the U.S. to live with my fiancé. I had the opportunity to learn medicine from the ground while working in rural Tennessee as a PCP. Other than medicine, I really enjoy watching Bollywood movies and cricket. Also, I read a lot of business and self-help books.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I have heard only good things about Eisenhower from locals. It actually felt like a good fit for me and I had awesome vibes on interview day.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Ahmedabad, St. Louis, Los Angeles
MEDICAL SCHOOL: AMC MET Medical College
ABOUT ME: I was born and brought up in India and also attended my medical school in India. United States being one of the pinnacle in the healthcare system, I came here for a few rotations which made me decide to pursue medicine here. Apart from medicine, I am an avid sports fan and can find me watching and playing any sport from cricket to tennis, football, table tennis…you name it! I love going outdoors and hanging out with friends. I am a foodie too and recently have been trying my hand in the kitchen to get into the groove of residency and cook a few good dishes.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Attended a lot of underserved and the less privileged part of the society and got to know about the disparity in healthcare between different sections of the society. Tried my best to help my patients and I wish to continue it in my future journey with that same passion.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I was part of the unusual virtual interview season but still everyone, including the faculty, program coordinators and the residents, were very warm and receptive on the interview day. Apart from that, the perks that the program provides and the wonderful location in California, I couldn’t ask for more.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Tehran, Iran
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Azad University, Tehran Medical Branch
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Tehran, Iran then moved to California with my family. Besides medicine, I am a professional rollerblader and also I enjoy cooking, practicing yoga and watching documentaries.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Getting matched to my favorite residency program
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower Health provides great academic opportunities and a friendly environment for all residents. The teaching attendings are very passionate to teach and train knowledgeable physicians. All people here are very nice and friendly.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Yangon, Myanmar
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Basic Education High School No (2), Bahan, Yangon, Myanmar
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Medicine 1, Yangon, Myanmar
ABOUT ME: I left my hometown after graduation hoping to get the opportunity for advanced medical training someday. I then had been practicing as a physician and serving the underserved community in Jamaica, WI until my American dream come true. As much as I am passionate about medicine, I also love different cultures and diversity. I enjoy playing soccer and basketball with friends. My favorite teams are Manchester United and Golden State Warriors. I also love cooking during my free time.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT:
– Matching with Eisenhower Health
– Burmese American Medical Association (BAMA) Outstanding Academic Achievement Award 2020
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The program is didactic and well organized with a flexible schedule. During the interview, I felt like I am warmly welcomed as the program director, associated program directors, attending physicians, colleagues and staff are very friendly and supportive. I also love living in Southern California where the weather is nice and warm throughout the year.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Mexicali, Mexico
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Universidad Autonoma de Baja California
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Universidad Autonoma de Baja California
ABOUT ME: I was born in Southern California and raised in Mexico. I feel fortunate and grateful for the education I had growing up that showed me that if I had a dream I will be able to reach it. I am passionate about teaching and learning. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, especially outdoors.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Made great friends during medical school. Top 2% of the national licensing exam.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? During the interview I was convinced Eisenhower was the place for me. Residents and staff were friendly, down to earth, and easy-going. And I couldn’t say enough about the beauty of Eisenhower’s campus.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Tehran; Los Angeles; Palm Desert
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Iran University of Medical Sciences
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Iran University of Medical Sciences
ABOUT ME: Besides medicine and academic research, I like to cook, play sports, hike and run, travel and explore new places, dine out and spend time with my family.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating from medical school; practicing medicine; teaching public health; participating in various clinical research studies and receiving AMA Physician’s Recognition Award in Continuing Medical Education.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? As a great opportunity to work with a well-rounded team where camaraderie, communication, recognition, and respect are the fundamentals; and providing the highest level of patient care is the top priority.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Covina CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC Riverside
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University
ABOUT ME: I grew up in California in LA county and wanted to be close to my home town. I am passionate about primary care and providing for my local community. I have been interested in hospice and palliative care since undergrad and hope to pursue that as a career.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating with highest honors from Ross, being author on a paper that made it into AAST.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Lovely SoCal location, friendly attendings and staff, diverse residents.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Yangon, Myanmar
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Basic Education High School No.2 Latha, Yangon, Myanmar
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Medicine 1, Yangon, Myanmar
ABOUT ME: I pursued medicine out of a desire to save lives and help people through medicine. I practiced as a physician in my hometown and then in Jamaica, WI before my American dream come true. I am an easy-going and ambitious person. I love traveling because it allows me to explore different cultures and people as well as nature. I also enjoy watching movies.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT:
– Matching with Eisenhower Health
– Burmese American Medical Association (BAMA) Academic Achievement Award 2020
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I found out that the program is not only IMG friendly but also diverse and didactic. So, I am eager to be part of a team with friendly colleagues, staff, and outstanding attending physicians. I also love the warm weather of Southern California.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Shiraz, Iran
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Fasa University of Medical Sciences
ABOUT ME: I grew up in Iran, in a family that loves to travel and visit new places, explore different cultures and try different cuisines. I think I grew the most not in school, but in the summers that I was traveling with my family. I enjoy swimming, camping and solving puzzles – if I was not a physician, I would have worked in the Ikea assembly service or as a beach lifeguard.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I got an opportunity to work with a prestigious Immunology research team at Harvard Medical School. We worked on a cohort project aiming to uncover human’s antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 vaccine development.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Every resident I met and interacted with before and during the interview was satisfied and happy.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Anaheim, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC Berkeley
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I enjoy spending time with my friends and family as well as meeting new people! I’m just getting back into golf, I like playing video games and board games, and I really enjoy weight lifting and eating healthy. My medical interest is Cardiology, and I hope to complete a Cardiology fellowship in the future.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduated medical school Magna Cum Laude as part of the Iota Epsilon Alpha honors society.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I decided to attend Eisenhower Health because everyone was very friendly during the interview process. I felt like the culture was very healthy and one I can really fit in with. I also really loved the Rancho Mirage area and am excited to live here for the next 3 years! Finally, Eisenhower has had a successful track record with fellowship matching, which is something I want to do.
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Damascus
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Damascus University/ Faculty of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Damascus in a lovely neighborhood. A few years before the match, I moved with my family to California. I like spending time with family. I believe love is the spirit of life. I enjoy singing, cooking, and doing activities in nature.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I matched in my favorite program!!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? When I was a medical student, I rotated in Eisenhower Health. I noticed the family atmosphere and the diversity of clinical experience that the program offers. In addition, the hospital is located in a lovely and beautiful city in Southern California. It was obvious how all the staff were happy to be in this place!
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Baghdad / Iraq
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Al-Mutamaizat high school
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Baghdad University/ College of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I’m a foodie person, explorer of different cuisines, trying my best to come up with new recipes, travel enthusiast, beach and sun lover. My family is my life.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Matching with my first rank choice at Eisenhower Health!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Since my first day I sensed the family atmosphere. The residents are thoughtful, innovative and passionate about their work, and the dedicated and talented faculty provide exceptional support and mentorship. Internal Medicine is always a growing field and Eisenhower Health is at the forefront of this specialty. I know that I will receive exceptional, unparalleled training, and I am honored to be a part of the Eisenhower family! I am looking forward to living in beautiful Palm Springs, which besides its close proximity to both L.A. and San Diego, this city offers a lot of wonderful activities that I am excited to partake with my amazing co-residents!
Resident 2
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Khobar, KSA and Hershey, PA
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Bahrain
ABOUT ME: Of Pakistani descent, I was born and raised in the States before moving to the Middle East. The global milieu enabled me to embrace the cultural, social, and economic diversity encountered in healthcare. It also taught me to connect with people and value their stories, often reflected in my practice as a physician. Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, trying out new recipes, and taking on Pinterest projects.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating medical school with highest honors.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I was drawn to the culture that permeates the Internal Medicine residency program at Eisenhower. The program fosters a culture of patient-centeredness, mentorship, camaraderie, and growth.
Resident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Burbank, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles)
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean (AUC)
ABOUT ME: Originally born in Israel and raised in California. Besides medicine, I love eating anything spicy, football, indie music and spending time with friends and family.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Matching at Eisenhower Medical Center and graduating medicine with honors.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Amazing camaraderie amongst the staff, strong academic environment, close to home.
Chief Resident
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Guadalajara, Mexico
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara
ABOUT ME:
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT:
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH?
Chief Resident
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Guadalajara, Jalisco
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Universidad Autonoma De Guadalajara
ABOUT ME: Positive, outgoing person raised in Northern California. I am lucky enough to have done my medical school in Mexico and really got to know the amazing culture and people of my home country.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Becoming a resident of the United States and knowing the hard work was worth it.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The people, the city, and the academic environment made me feel right at home.
Chief Resident
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Bombay, India
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences
ABOUT ME: Spent years in the hospital. I love academics not more than I love my family. I enjoy swimming, tennis, and racquetball.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: An Orthopedic surgeon back in India and now a physician in the desert.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower Medical Center provides new opportunities and a friendly environment for all the residents.
Resident 2
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Anaheim Hills, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Oregon
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences- College of Osteopathic Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Orange County but moved away to the Pacific Northwest once college started. Spent most of my adult life exploring the beautiful Northwest (living in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho) so adventures involving the outdoors with my significant other, our dog, and our cameras is definitely my favorite pasttime! In my free time you can catch me either cooking, hiking, lifting, watching sports(go Ducks), or watching some kind of Marvel movie.
Emergency medicine interests include sports medicine and ultrasound.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: During medical school I had the opportunity to travel to Bundibugyo, Uganda to serve on a medical mission with some of my closest classmates. For two weeks, we worked on a mobile clinic going from village to village providing basic medical care and interacting with local health officials to help establish more accessible clinics. Other highlights include working in the cadaver lab as a prosector and tutor, and also served as a pre-med counselor to my undergraduate university.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Wide variety of pathology and acuity, high volumes, attendings that care, and residents that helped cultivate an incredible working environment, Eisenhower checked off all the boxes I was looking for in a residency. Even when I rotated here as a medical student, everyone genuinely cared about my well-being and my learning, so needless to say, I can’t wait to join the Eisenhower ED family as a resident!
Resident 2
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Sacramento, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Sacramento State
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Sacramento before moving to Phoenix for medical school. In my free time I enjoy playing soccer, hiking, and lifting weights.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Being a medical student at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The excellent faculty, location, and patient population make Eisenhower a great place to train.
Resident 2
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: McAllen, Texas
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Southwestern Adventist University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in South Texas but completed my third and fourth years of medical school in California. In my spare time, I enjoy lifting heavy objects and playing sports, specifically basketball and soccer. I’m a huge basketball fan and support the Dallas Mavericks! I will be spending my days off taking advantage of California’s scenery by going hiking and camping with my overly energetic dog, Lincoln.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: During my time at RUSM, I participated in many case reports at the county hospital where I completed my core rotations. I completed most of my medical school rotations working in an underserved community, which has now become one of my passions in medicine. I learned basic ultrasound skills during my ultrasound rotation and I believe that is the future of emergency medicine (yes, I am biased).
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I had the opportunity to spend eight weeks at Eisenhower as a medical student. During my time there I got to experience great pathology and a high volume of patients in the emergency department. The residents made me feel like part of the team and cultivated a great learning environment. I loved the idea of being part of a newer program and adding to an already great residency program!
Resident 2
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Laguna Beach, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Brigham Young University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Marshall University
ABOUT ME: Native to Southern California, I spent most of my youth on the beach. I met my wife at a frozen yogurt shop in Utah while pursuing my bachelor’s degree. Eight years and three kids later, I enjoy trying a new pancake recipe, building a pillow fort with my kids, or watching a really good/terrible 1980s movie with some popcorn and a Coke. I will swim in almost any body of water, I play drums and guitar, and still manage to find ways to surf between family and work responsibilities. ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: As a medical student in West Virginia, I was privileged to work among several individuals caught in the wake of the opioid epidemic. This drove me into research and publication on the emergency physician’s role in narcotic distribution. I was also fortunate to spend 10 days serving the people of rural Honduras on a medical mission trip.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Rotating with these amazing people during my MS4 year made Eisenhower an easy choice. The work environment is kind, stimulating, and uplifting, with a heavy emphasis on resident autonomy and procedural mastery. They place a great level of trust and confidence in their residents who are visibly happy people. Outside of the training, I love being so close to family, the beach and all the things I know and love about Southern CA!
Resident 2
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Tucson, Arizona
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Arizona
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean
ABOUT ME: I grew up in Tucson, Arizona and because college sports dominated our city, I’m a huge sports fan (especially basketball)! I fell in love with EM while working as an ED scribe in Cleveland, Ohio. I went to school at AUC and loved living on St. Maarten. I was part of the double-whammy class that got hit by not only Hurricane Irma in 2017, but COVID as well. During my free time, I will re-watch Friends a million times, cook/bake, and find reasons to have my friends come over to hangout and play games.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Being one of only 2 students in AUC History to have their original Study Guides published in our official AUC library! Some AUC students will message me thanking me for making these study guides; it always makes my day!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I fell in love with Eisenhower when I did my Sub-I here in the Fall of 2020. Everybody was incredibly friendly, willing to teach, and made it an overall amazing work environment. The pathology was excellent, I saw a diverse range of cases every shift. I’ve been away from home for the last 7 years so getting to come back to the West Coast to do my training is the miracle and blessing I’ve been praying for!
Resident 2
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Anaheim Hills, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Rider University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: Christian, daughter, sister/auntie, and wife. I played college volleyball and worked as a neurophysiologist after college for a few years prior to medical school. I love good food, time with friends, and traveling anywhere that I can lay by the pool or on the beach.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: President of Women in Medicine. IEA honor society member, graduated summa cum laude. Poster at ACC 2020.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I originally wanted to rotate because of the area. I’ve always loved Palm Springs, and grew up visiting frequently. After my rotation, I knew it was my home. The residents felt like my family quickly. The food was actually good at the cafeteria, Starbucks was never in short supply. The patient population was much broader than I was expecting. I had cases ranging from 2 year olds to over 100 year olds. The hospital facility is so nice, and all the attendings truly wanted to teach. The dynamic between nursing staff and residents was both friendly and respectful both ways. I was so happy and excited to join the team at Eisenhower EM!
Resident 3
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Rochester, NY
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Binghamton University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
ABOUT ME: Born and raised in Upstate New York. Lived in Scranton, PA and worked at a pharmaceutical company before starting medical school. In my free time I enjoy cooking, finding new restaurants, exploring nature and hiking, breakdancing, and learning new things.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Worked on a few different research projects as a medical student which resulted in a publication and abstract presentation.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Everyone at Eisenhower is incredibly friendly and genuinely invested in training the next generation of physicians. The high volume and acuity of cases is also great for training and learning too. Location was also a huge plus!
HOMETOWN: Garden Grove
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Irvine
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Orange County before going to medical school and living the Caribbean life. Aside loving medicine, I enjoy weightlifting at the gym, jogging (sometimes), hiking, trying new foods, and being a DJ (my favorite is Electronic Dance Music).
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Balancing my life all throughout medical school while making many new friends
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower Medical Center has everything I am looking for in a residency: a high-volume ED, great pathology, and an excellent team to work with. Not only am I closer to my family here in Cali, I get to experience living the beautiful Coachella Valley life.
Sports Medicine Fellow
HOMETOWN: Rowland Heights, CA / SF Bay Area
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Berkeley
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Touro University – California
ABOUT ME: I am a California boy, born and raised. I enjoy spending time with my wife. We enjoy cooking, watching our favorite shows, seeing live music and traveling.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Finishing residency and starting fellowship.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I completed my family medicine residency here and really enjoyed my training. Also, Coachella and the BNP Paribas Open.
Resident 3
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Harker Heights, TX
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Houston
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Born in Germany and raised in Texas, I’m your typical “Army brat”, having had both my parents serve in the military growing up. Being no stranger to relocation, I’ve had a mobile upbringing that has continued throughout medical school after moving to a Caribbean island and making several cross country trips throughout rotations. In my spare time, I love the thrill of adventure and enjoy anything outdoors whether it be hiking, camping, or just laying out by the pool.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Finishing off my medical school experience with a volunteerism trip to a remote village in the Himalayas of Nepal. While there, I had the unique opportunity of volunteering in their local school and clinic all while witnessing the challenges and rewards rural medicine has to offer.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? In the one day I was at Eisenhower for interviews, I instantly felt at home. The faculty and residents truly made me feel at ease and impressed me with their sense of family and comradery. Being a fairly new program, I also loved the idea of being a trailblazer and becoming involved in building what the residency has to offer for future candidates. However, the fact that I’d also never have to shovel snow off my car was undoubtedly a plus.
Resident 3
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Tampa, Florida
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of South Florida
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I love cooking (it is all about the flavor profile!), painting, and my spin bike. I love having deep conversations with people and I feel it is important to gain different perspectives on life. Travel is key, Instagram can wait. I believe in true happiness not a filter.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Creating a scholarship for underrepresented students to do away rotations in Emergency Medicine. Sickle Cell research
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I did a rotation here as a student and after 2 away rotations in EM, Eisenhower was the first place that truly saw me. All they expected out of me was to learn. Now that I have started here as a resident nothing has changed. I wanted to be in an environment that felt like home for residency and that is exactly what I found.
Resident 3
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Ventura, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: SDSU, UC San Diego
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Midwestern University
ABOUT ME: Being raised in Southern California cultivated my passion for stand-up comedy and my appreciation for many genres of music. In my free time, I love experimenting in the kitchen, but my comfort food is still the infamous grilled cheese with tomato soup. When I’m not in the kitchen, I am working hard at my F45 training gym. At home, I enjoy diving into books about social psychology and philosophy that help me gain new perspectives. My interests in Emergency Medicine include Toxicology, Ultrasound, Oncological emergencies and HIV.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: In medical school, I traveled to Huancayo, Peru during a physician strike to provide medical care to rural communities.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower offers a chance to help shape a modern residency program that focuses on resident wellness and quality time in the ED. Eisenhower truly appreciates their residents, listens to their input and implements change quickly. I hope to carve out my own path in Emergency Medicine but also help implement customs other residents behind me can benefit from.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Rancho Cucamonga, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Nova Southeastern University
ABOUT ME: I was born in Cairo, Egypt, but my family immigrated to California when I was 8 months old. I was raised in the Inland Empire, but moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida for undergrad, and then Las Vegas, Nevada for medical school. I love spending time with my family (especially my dog, Bella!), traveling, working out, eating all the foods (and desserts), and binge-watching TV shows.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Matching at my number one program, Eisenhower Medical Center, after a long, but fulfilling journey to family medicine and getting hooded at graduation by my father, who is also a family medicine physician!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I was lucky enough to complete a family medicine sub-internship at Eisenhower and immediately felt at home after seeing the positive learning environment nurtured by the residents, faculty, and staff. The atmosphere of the program truly felt like a family to me, and I am so excited to be joining the family!
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Anaheim Hills, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Chapman University
ABOUT ME: I’m a California girl, through and through, but I love traveling and trying different cuisines. My favorite place that I’ve visited so far has been Sevilla, Spain. In my free time I like exploring different areas, but the beach is my preferred chill spot. You can also catch me at Orangetheory fitness, cooking something new, listening to music, watching animal docs or diligently shopping online. Oh, and I absolutely adore my chubby orange cat, CousCous! 🙂
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating from medical school and matching into residency
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? As a California native, I knew I wanted to match close to home and specifically SoCal. I also wanted to work in a non-toxic environment. On my interview day, I loved how engaging the staff were and the abundance of resources offered at Eisenhower. Resident wellness was also a priority for me and I appreciate how Eisenhower takes care of residents to the best of their abilities.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Karachi, Pakistan
ABOUT ME: I enjoy teaching, reading, and meeting new people. I never turn down an opportunity to learn something new.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Doing well in medical school and having a social life at the same time.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower’s biggest selling point was how happy the residents were: they love it here! My other reasons for joining were the rigorous training, collegial atmosphere, and excellent facilities.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Polk County, FL
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Florida State University
ABOUT ME: Hey my name is Michael but I usually go by Alex. I grew up in Florida and have been slowly making my way further out west. I love to travel, hike, and cook. I am very passionate about punk rock music and have spent a significant amount of time in Florida playing drums in different bands. I’m always in search of new experiences.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: After receiving my Masters of Science in Medical Sciences from the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, I spent a year teaching kids how to ski in Keystone, Colorado. I also spent a few years teaching a boy with optic nerve hypoplasia how to play the drums in Florida.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? My interview at Eisenhower made it my top choice for residency, especially after seeing how happy the residents are and learning about how much the program supports them. This program lets me tailor my electives to gain competence in areas I want to focus on as an up-and-coming family physician while providing me with excellent training in patient-centered care. Finally, it’s location in the Coachella Valley is an added bonus that provides plenty of opportunities to stay refreshed and recharged whether it is hiking at Joshua Tree National Park or making a quick trip to Los Angeles to catch a punk show.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Riverside, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California Irvine
ABOUT ME: I am a first generation Egyptian-American. I enjoy baking, cooking, wine tasting, event planning, and going on walks with my family and friends. My favorite thing to do is travel and try a city’s best foods!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? What stands out the most to me about working at Eisenhower is the tight-knit community. Rancho Mirage is a place with a very diverse population, and I enjoy dealing with the unexpected challenges that arise in caring for patients with backgrounds different from my own.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, CA
ABOUT ME: I am very physically active; I play tennis and try to do yoga as much as possible. Music is one of my biggest interests. I love both playing and listening to it. I also love cooking for my family and friends.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Supportive attendings, camaraderie among colleagues, amazing.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Mountain View, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC San Diego
ABOUT ME: I grew up in the beautiful San Francisco Bay Area enjoying the sunny weather, year-round swimming, and delicious food. I moved to Southern California to complete my undergraduate schooling, fell in love with the people and pace of life in San Diego, and I’m ecstatic to be back in Southern California for residency training. In my free time you can find me listening to audiobooks and hunting through farmers’ markets looking for new varieties of fruits and vegetables, with a special eye out for unique heirloom tomatoes, which are my favorite.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I was inducted into the Beta Gamma Sigma Honors Society (highest academic honor awarded to business students) upon completion of my graduate business degree. I also completed my business thesis on the viability of a discount food market that sells food that would otherwise be discarded. I am extremely interested in ways to provide nutritious food at low prices and learned quite a lot about food waste while completing this project.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The people! During our interview, the diverse group of residents seemed warm, welcoming, and outgoing. The residents also showed respect toward each other and valued different opinions about life in their program. Additionally, the facilities are beautiful and there are fellowship and learning opportunities, like that at Betty Ford Center, that provide an extremely well-rounded residency experience.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Brooklyn, NY
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Stony Brook University
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. As a family medicine physician, I look forward to the unique prospect of being a part of a patient’s life from birth to death and every life event in between. I enjoy anything creative, ranging from music, art, dance and writing adventure stories. I enjoy the thrill of trying new experiences, currently it is driving.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating from medical school! Having the honor to do research that I am passionate about with amazing mentors and colleagues for the last 15 years and completing multiple publications and presentations at national conferences.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? From my very first encounter with the faculty at Eisenhower, I felt the program has an accepting, caring, supportive environment to become the best Family Medicine physician I can be. I feel Eisenhower also has the means to help me continue to explore and bring my research from the bench to the bedside to serve any patient population.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Thousand Oaks, CA
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Southern California. Upon graduating from high school, I followed my roots back to Poland and I attended a six-year MD program at Wroclaw Medical University. When I have free time I love spending time outdoors biking, jogging and walking. I am a big foodie and I can’t wait to try all the restaurants in the desert!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating in the top four of my class and working in the largest COVID-19 vaccination center in Poland.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Right from the beginning of my interview I truly felt the supportive and welcoming environment at Eisenhower. The staff are wonderful and passionate about educating the residents while still maintaining resident wellness. The opportunity to enhance my learning at the Betty Ford Center was very important to me as well.
Resident 1
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Bellevue, WA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Washington
ABOUT ME: I was originally born in Massachusetts, but spent most of my childhood in the PNW. In my free time I enjoy hiking, skiing, cooking, baking, or taking my dog (Busch) to the dog park!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Various journal publications. As the inaugural class at ICOM, I had the opportunity to co-found and be involved with multiple organizations.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I chose Eisenhower based off of my experiences during my audition rotation. The residents and attendings were all extremely welcoming and willing to teach!
Resident 4
Sports Medicine Fellow
HOMETOWN: La Habra, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University at Monterey Bay
ABOUT ME: I’m a Southern California native and enjoy experiencing everything Southern California has to offer, whether it is hitting bombs at the golf course or finding new trails to hike and explore. I also love spending time with my family, dog, and two cats. On any given weekend, you can find me trying out a new local restaurant or catching up on my favorite Netflix shows.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I enjoy the crossover between sports medicine, primary care, and the health of the community at large. I am particularly interested in how exercise and healthy living can impact such chronic health conditions as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and addiction.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I chose Eisenhower Health for my sports medicine fellowship because I can gain experience in all levels of athletics, from high school to college to the professional level. I felt a good connection during my interview, and I am now excited to continue practicing medicine in Southern California.
Resident 4
Sports Medicine Fellow
HOMETOWN: San Francisco, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Davis
ABOUT ME: Growing up in San Francisco, I loved playing sports and rooting for my local teams. During my medical training, I truly enjoyed treating musculoskeletal injuries and covering sporting events, leading me to Sports Medicine! I love playing basketball and volleyball, traveling, eating amazing food, and spending time with family and friends.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Reaching this point in my training to where I am able to purse a career which I truly enjoy is a tribute to my mother’s support, sacrifice, and inspiration as war stripped her of the opportunity to achieve her own academic goals. Every step I take towards achieving my career goals has been an academic highlight for both myself and my mom, and I am grateful for this.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The clinical training, educational opportunities, supportive faculty, and the friendly culture all drew me to Eisenhower. After my interview, I knew this was where I want to pursue Sports Medicine training. I am excited and grateful to be part of Eisenhower.
Resident 1
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Glendale, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Irvine
ABOUT ME: Born and raised in beautiful Southern California. I attended UC Irvine where I completed my bachelors degree in Neurobiology. I then spent 4 years in EMS in Los Angeles County, where I discovered my passion for Emergency Medicine. I then continued my dreams of becoming an emergency physician by attending St. George’s University on the beautiful Caribbean island of Grenada. During my free time I enjoy learning new things on YouTube, hanging out with family and friends, building things, working on and racing cars, watching sports, and karaoke.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduated summa cum laude with a distinction in scholarly activity from St. George’s University. President of Armenian Students’ Association at SGU, and IT Chair of IEA honor society. Best of all, I was able to publish an ultrasound case report on a patient of mine while rotating at Eisenhower.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: My family and I enjoy vacationing in the Coachella Valley, and during one of our vacations my grandfather ended up suffering from a stroke and was taken to Eisenhower immediately. Being an EMS and having been to most hospitals in the greater Los Angeles area, I was truly amazed to see the world class quality and care that was provided. Years later in medical school, I applied to do both EM and Ultrasound rotations at Eisenhower and found myself speechless again. Not only did I encounter a wide variety of patients and pathologies on every shift, but the faculty, attendings, residents, nurses, and staff were all approachable, respectful, and willing to teach. I truly felt welcomed and knew that this was where I wanted to be. I’m very fortunate and happy to be joining the Eisenhower EM family!
Resident 1
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Chino, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
ABOUT ME: Born in Sri Lanka, I moved to Southern California when I was four months old and have lived here all my life until I relocated to Tennessee for medical school. I love crossing items off my ever-growing bucket list. I enjoy basketball (go Lakers!), food adventures, wine tastings, traveling locally and abroad, exploring national parks, and hiking/glamping with my corgi/border collie rescue, Felix Felicis. Fun fact about me: my last name literally translates to “Lion King”.
Along with mentorship and advocacy, my professional interests include event medicine, prehospital medicine, rural medicine, and international medicine.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: My volunteer work with Remote Access Medical (RAM) clinics in the East Tennessee region, which ignited my passion for rural medicine. I co-wrote a rural resolution highlighting the importance of rural exposure in residency education for EMRA’s Representative Council. I also created an Osteopathic Mentorship webinar series through the American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM). I believe mentorship should be free and accessible to all and I’m happy to help in any way that I can!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: I did an ultrasound rotation here as a medical student that really encouraged me to advocate for my education. I also enjoyed the close-knit family feel among residents, attendings, and staff as well as all the opportunities that come with a community EM program. Most importantly: location! I’ve missed the warm weather and I am thrilled to be back in my home state and 20 minutes away from my favorite music festival – Coachella!
Resident 1
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Phoenix, AZ
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Arizona
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Arizona where I completed both undergrad and medical school. If I’m not cooking or tinkering with my cars, I’m probably hanging out by the pool. Some of my other interests include playing video games, watching NBA games (Suns in 4!), and spending time at the gym.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: During medical school, I tailored my academic schedule to ensure I had an adequate amount of experience with procedures commonly performed in the emergency department. By the time I graduated, I had performed nearly 200 intubations. I also spent time training with cosmetic surgeons in order to gain experience with various wound closure methods to minimize scarring.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? On my interview day, Eisenhower stood out to me because the residents and attendings seemed genuinely happy to be involved with this program. Additionally, a high-volume ED with high-acuity patients, all located in the beautiful Coachella Valley; what’s not to love?! Come check us out!
Resident 1
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Newport Beach, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Oregon
ABOUT ME: Born and raised in Orange County, I grew up going to the beach and playing water polo. Throughout high school and college, I worked as an ocean lifeguard, which ultimately led me to pursue a career in medicine. In my spare time, you can find me running, swimming, cooking, trying new restaurants with my wife, and hanging out with our dog, Murphy.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I was fortunate enough to attend medical school in New Orleans, where I was able to learn from such a culturally rich and diverse patient population. During my time I helped work TB and community health clinics, led community first responder training, and served as a New Orleans Medical Reserve Corps member. Additionally, I was able to learn emergency medicine from some amazing physicians who still embody the Charity Hospital ethos.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower felt like a perfect fit for me. Between the high volume ED, dedicated and supportive learning environment, and close-knit residency culture, it met all of the things I was looking for in a program. I look forward to adding to the Eisenhower EM family and enjoying everything the Coachella Valley has to offer.
Resident 1
Emergency Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Glide, OR
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Oregon
ABOUT ME: Before attending medical school I worked in the pre-hospital setting as a paramedic as well as in the Emergency Room as a tech-II Paramedic. This work experience gave me a lot of exposure to different emergencies and is what drove me to return to medical school with the goal of one day becoming an Emergency Medicine Physician. I love the uncertainty that comes with working in an Emergency Department as well as the instant gratification that comes from helping patients with acute complaints. When I am not in the hospital I enjoy hiking, fishing, camping and just about any other activity I can do with my dog Locksley.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: The summer after first year of medical school I had the opportunity to assist in the dissection of several cadavers that would later be used to teach the first year medical students. I also worked as a tutor for the gross anatomy lab all through my second year of medical school. The work I performed in the cadaver lab as well as a tutor allowed me to graduate with a distinction in anatomy.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I was very lucky in that I had the opportunity to rotate at Eisenhower in the ED, as well as an ultrasound rotation. Every attending that I worked with at Eisenhower was very helpful and seemed to have a genuine interest in seeing residents and students succeed. Attendings and residents gave me encouragement and feedback, both positive and negative, throughout both rotations. I can sincerely say I left Eisenhower better equipped to work in the ED setting than when I first arrived. Upper classman had told me that when you find the right residency you would just know it and they were right. I knew that Eisenhower was where I belonged and I am very excited to join a great group of healthcare professionals as a resident physician.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Houston, TX
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Houston-Downtown
ABOUT ME: I have always enjoyed the logic of the sciences and decided to pursue my PhD in Biochemistry. After working for a few years as a Research Scientist, I decided to transition from bench-side to bedside medicine. In my free time, I enjoy experimenting in the kitchen and spending time with my family.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Obtaining a PhD in Biochemistry.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I had researched about the Eisenhower residency program before applying and knew it would meet all my needs to become a competent physician. It was the interview process that sealed that decision as the faculty, residents and the staff were friendly, supportive, straight forward and cared for my well being.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Hayward, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC Berkeley
ABOUT ME: After emigrating from a rural village in India to the United States at the age of 11, I was the first in my family to go to college and medical school. I worked in the fields of microbiology, quality assurance, and teaching before transitioning full time to medicine.
Even though I grew up in Northern California (Hayward, CA), I have always been a big Lakers and Kobe Bryant fan. I enjoy traveling, playing different sports, and exercising.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Undergraduate at UC Berkeley and medical school at AUC. In addition, working with underserved communities here in California, Florida, Island of St Maarten, and England.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I grew up in California so I wanted to return home for my residency. Additionally, Eisenhower Health provides state-of-the art facilities for learning and the kindest faculty/residents to support learning.
Resident 1
Family Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Woodland Hills, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University, Northridge
ABOUT ME: I was born in Ukraine and moved to Los Angeles at the age of two. Fun fact about me is that I am a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. My hobbies include calisthenics and resistance training, pretty much everything outdoor from hiking to cycling, huge advocate of all forms of fitness, love to travel, foodie for life, and shamelessly binging shows and movies.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower instills the highest quality, comprehensive, and compassionate care that as a resident physician, one strives to find. I am proud to receive my training at Eisenhower in order to confidently build my skills and knowledge to be able to provide exceptional care for all of my future patients throughout my entire career.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Iran
ABOUT ME: Interested in music.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Research for 2 years on immunology of cancer
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Because of the friendly environment.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Carlsbad, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Santa Barbara
ABOUT ME: Though I am a Southern California native, my hobbies tend to stay indoors. In my free time, I like to cook, watch TV/film, and brew delicious cups of pour-over coffee.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Mentoring undergraduate students in research to achieve shared goals.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The residency faculty and administration are committed to balancing learning and physical/mental well-being to create a higher quality of life in residency. It seemed like a very rare opportunity, and I am glad to have matched to such a wonderful place.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Houston, TX
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Texas at Dallas
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Houston, TX and enjoyed traveling and making amazing memories with my parents before going to college and, eventually, medical school. Outside of medicine, I love playing and listening to music (jazz in particular). I also like staying active, trying new foods, and hanging out with my two cats.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating from medical school and matching at Eisenhower Health
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? During my day interviewing at Eisenhower Health, I immediately got the impression that the faculty cares for the well-being of their residents as much as they care for providing outstanding, world-class patient care. Furthermore, the residents whom I interacted with during the breakout sessions were very happy and fulfilled to be learning at Eisenhower Health.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Yorba Linda, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University, Fullerton
ABOUT ME: I grew up in Orange County, California. Other than medicine, I enjoy hanging out with friends and family, watching documentaries, gaming, and snowboarding.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I had the privilege of being an official peer tutor at Ross University after consistently high passing semesters during my time at Ross University. Through that I learned of my passion for teaching my fellow residents and medical students and wish to continue pursuing that passion in the future.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The beautiful location in Rancho Mirage, being close to home, and the diverse health professionals I have the pleasure of working with.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Rasht Iran
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Iran
ABOUT ME: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, practicing aerobic exercise and getting more familiar with different cultures.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? At Eisenhower residents are well supported to reach their professional goals. Also, people are so nice and friendly which makes me feel at home.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Torrance, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Riverside
ABOUT ME: Proud to have been born and raised in Southern California. I love being around my family and friends. I enjoy the beach and playing basketball in my free time. Huge Kobe Bryant fan. I am passionate about medicine and providing top care for our community.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating medical school and matching at my dream program in my home state of California!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Other than living in one of the most beautiful cities in California, Eisenhower Health is a beautiful, well-distingushed hospital that I know will provide me the training to be an exceptional physician. The Eisenhower family creates an environment of cameraderie, enthusiasm, and compassion that I know provides the best care for the patients!
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Tabriz, Los Angeles
ABOUT ME: I have practiced as a medical doctor and clinical researcher for several years. The more time I devote to clinical work and medical research, the more interest and enthusiasm I find in myself in the field of medicine. I am an outgoing person and enjoy dancing, hiking, and traveling and exploring different places and cultures.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Participated in several clinical research projects at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Matched with my first rank residency choice at Eisenhower Medical Center.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? It is absolutely a great place to be trained and become a competent internist. I am impressed by the supportive and friendly atmosphere within the program. And the location, I love Southern California, and here in Coachella Valley, you can enjoy the warm weather and sunshine throughout the year!
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Sohag and Palm Desert Egypt and CA United States
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Sohag University Faculty of Medicine.
ABOUT ME: I am a blessed wife of an outstanding physician and mother of three gorgeous kids who continuously provide me with tremendous support.
I love learning about different cultures and beliefs. My passion is getting to know people as I believe they are similar to chapter books waiting to be read. I am interested in reading through their pages and providing medical and emotional help. This passion is the leading motivation for me to practice medicine.
I also enjoy reading, listening to different styles of music, swimming, and cooking dishes from various cuisines.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating from medical school in Egypt and obtaining certifications in clinical documentation improvement and medical coding.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower is an institution that delivers medical education in a high-tech yet friendly environment. I was impressed by the outstanding attendings, faculty, and excellent diverse residents.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Calexico, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Centro De Estudios Universitarios Xochicalco, Escuela de Medicina, Ensenada, B.C
ABOUT ME: I was born in Mexico and raised in California. If I were to describe myself, I would say I am a dreamer, hard worker, an enthusiast, and a positive energy seeker. I love to exercise and travel to meet new people. On my free time, I like to visit coffee shops. Back in Mexico I was a Medical Professor, where I taught over 300 medical students helping them achieve their highest dreams through education and inspiration.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduated medical school with honors from Centro de Estudios Universitarios Xochicalco, Escuela de Medicina, Ensenada B.C.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? During the interview, the staff was easy-going, friendly, and welcoming. I had previously visited the facility and was impressed by the design of the architecture and its beauty, but more than anything, by the opportunities Eisenhower Health offers the physicians as well as the high quality standard of patient care.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: San Ramon, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Melbourne, Australia
ABOUT ME:
– Probably moved around too much: Born in Palo Alto, raised in San Jose, Pleasanton, San Ramon, Mountain View, Danville. Then Melbourne in Australia for 7-ish years. And now back in California!
– My passions in life: food, photography, exploring nature, gardening, playing the piano, keeping up with technology/privacy, and catching up with my shows, anime, and manga.
– Medical specialty interest: Cardiology (electrophysiology or interventional heart failure).
– Fun fact about me: Frederic Chopin is my favorite piano composer, and I love playing a full range of his works, especially Fantaisie-Impromptu Op.66, Waltz Op. 64 No. 2, and Nocturne Op. 9 No. 2.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT:
– Research! A case report on myocardial calcification after sepsis in the European Heart Journal, and work/abstracts in cardiac imaging/heart failure (Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand). And interestingly, some papers on musculoskeletal biochem and intervention with the International Journal of Tryptophan Research, and Gerontology.
– Teaching! I really enjoyed mentoring my 2 students, watching them treat their patients well and with compassion, and seeing them go on to publish research and present at conferences.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? More like, why not? Since interview day, there was this strong vibe of support among colleagues and from the faculty. Plus, being near good food, amazing scenery, all in a friendly community/regional setting – yes! Even a physician (light years away in Australia) speaks highly of the area: “Well, you’ll be in an area that’s close to like-minded people who prioritize a good lifestyle.” All this for 3 years? Sign me up!
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Aleppo, Syria
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Syria. I completed 5 years of ob-gyn residency at Aleppo University Hospital and graduated as a chief resident in 2013, then I worked as an attending physician and started preparing to get my Ph.D. in the field of gynecology oncology. I moved to Louisiana to join my husband and decided to follow my passion to grow as a physician. I enjoy family time, traveling, cooking, and trying new food.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Top 10 ranked students in medical school. Volunteering at Jesuit Refugee Service and serving the refugees in Syria.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Great learning opportunities, friendly and supportive environment, and advanced technology.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Rancho Mirage, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UCLA
ABOUT ME: I love music and going to concerts. I’m your go-to girl for finding new music and making playlists for my friends! I also enjoy playing tennis and soccer, and watch a lot of sports. I love traveling and have been to every continent except Antarctica.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating medical school with honors.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I was blown away by the camaraderie, support for residents, and commitment to resident education.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Fontana, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Claremont Colleges
ABOUT ME: I was born in Fontana, CA and raised traveling between the Inland Empire and Mexicali, Mexico. As a first-generation college student and the first physician in my family, I was raised in a home that emphasized hard work and caring for others as an act of love and service. I was fortunate enough to find mentors early in my undergraduate career that shaped these core values while serving the community through a career in the medical field. Outside of medicine, I like to travel and pick up new creative hobbies constantly, including drawing, painting, and cosplaying. I also love board games and am continuously searching for new games.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Spending a summer on the cliffs of Northern California studying Pacific seabirds to aid in forest conservation efforts with the Federal Bureau of Land Management. Geocaching soil samples for analysis of organic matter composition analysis of soil type conversion.
Performing behavioral and sound experiments on mouse models of Fragile X syndrome with IHC labeling of hippocampal neurons.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Having grown up traveling to and from Northern Mexico, I had an interest in training at a facility that served the communities of the Coachella Valley and Inland Empire. Eisenhower Health was uniquely situated to care for exactly that population and I am grateful for the caring physicians and staff that I saw striving to improve the lives of their patients while I rotated through Eisenhower as a medical student.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Davis, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC Davis
ABOUT ME: I’m a resident physician with extensive experience prior to beginning my career in medicine at the age of 30. Before medical school, I worked in a number of health care, academic and non-profit settings including the UCLA Division of Geriatrics, UC Davis Health, and St. Barnabas Senior Services. My unique background broadened my perspective, but also focused my interests. I look forward to a career in internal medicine with an emphasis in geriatrics. While not studying or in the hospital, I enjoy walking in nature and visiting local coffee shops.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: In 2014, I earned a Master of Public Health in community health sciences from UCLA. This experience advanced my knowledge and skills in community-based programming and research. In 2020, I led a research study analyzing the impact of the COVID-19 California stay at home order on the psychosocial wellbeing of diverse older adults. Results were presented at the American Geriatrics Society 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The Eisenhower residency program offers an excellent training environment with supportive faculty, diverse patient population and access to latest medical technologies. Also, I appreciate the year-long sunshine!
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Cairo, Egypt
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: As a post doctoral research fellow, I Joined the Texas Center Healthcare Quality innovation multidisciplinary team; focusing on improving patient quality and safety.
I lead several QI projects targeting sepsis, venous thromboembolism, and ICU mobility. Worked on identifying areas of potential improvement, developed new algorithms, and data visualization dashboards.
Presented several oral and poster presentations nationally at The American College of Chest Physicians(CHEST), American Thoracic Society (ATS) and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement(IHI).
Won the first place award at our annual internal medicine QI fair for our project “”Code Sepsis for Surviving Sepsis”” targeting improving outcomes in sepsis patients.
I also served as a Co-Investigator for around 25 industry, NIH, and DoD-funded clinical trials. The majority of the clinical trials were studying investigational COVID-19 therapies.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The program’s commitment to providing high-quality healthcare to patients aligns with my passion for quality improvement to deliver the highest health care value to our patients. Training at Eisenhower is an excellent opportunity to learn from an array of qualified physicians with diverse expertise and backgrounds.
Resident 1
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Fresno CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: CSU Fresno
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Tehran. I moved to Brunei after high school by myself and lived there for a few years until I moved to Fresno, California where I met my beautiful wife. Having lived on my own for so long, I have developed a passion for cooking. I love sharing a delicious meal with friends and family. Besides cooking, my other hobbies are learning about various tech and software, following stock market trends, and investing. I learned to play the guitar when I was 14, and I have some very nice electric guitars that I have been ignoring for a while now. I want to get back to playing the guitar more regularly.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I was awarded the Pillar of Public Health by the Fresno Department of Public Health for offering critical harm reduction services and support to individuals dealing with addiction to intravenous drugs.
I also graduated medical school with Magna Cum Laude and matched into my number 1 residency choice.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower is a non-profit hospital that puts the patients’ well-being first and that is important to me. I also noticed that everyone I interacted with was kind and friendly and spoke highly of the hospital. The residents seemed genuinely happy.
Khashayar Nemovi, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Tehran, Orange County
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Tehran (Iran) University of Medical Sciences
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Tehran (Iran) University of Medical Sciences
ABOUT ME: I like playing tennis, going to the gym and swimming
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Top ranked Intern in my medical school.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I like Eisenhower because of the staff, very friendly and supportive. It is refreshing to see residents that are all happy and enjoying the program. I also appreciate that the program really focuses on education and the patients’ wellbeing.
Helen Li Mitchell, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Pleasanton, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Santa Barbara
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I’ve studied everything from philosophy to film, and my bachelors degree is actually in film. But I’ve loved medicine since I was a kid, and it’s been a long but rewarding journey to get here.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Having a baby in the middle of my third year of medical school!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? It’s a great place to work; they really want the staff to be as happy as possible.
Tyler Mitchell, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Coronado, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC San Diego
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University: School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I’m a native Southern Californian and started my educational journey as a mechanical engineer. After moving into biology and experiencing the laboratory side of STEM, I found my heart in medicine. I have many hobbies and enjoy projects around the home. I hope to be a pilot someday.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Match day, when I got to tell my friends and family that I would be coming back to California.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? When I felt the energy of the staff at Eisenhower I knew I wanted to be part of this team. The hospital is a tight knit community in and of itself. The combination of the energy from the staff and Palm Springs – I could not have asked for a better opportunity.
Elika Shahkamrani, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Carlsbad, California.
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Riverside
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born in Tehran, Iran and immigrated to the States with my family when I was 15. I feel incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to experience living in 3 different countries. I am a travel enthusiast and like to explore different countries. In my spare time I like to keep active by going to the gym. I also enjoy hiking and snowboarding; anything that allows me to be out in nature.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Being able to finish medical school during multiple hurricanes.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower’s teaching attendings are eager to teach and train excellent competent physicians. Also, I was impressed by friendliness of attendings, residents and staff.
Maryam Shahamfar, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Tabriz, Iran and Orange County, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Tabriz University of Medical Science
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Tabriz University of Medical Science
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Iran, then moved to California with my family. Besides Medicine, I am a professional swimmer and folk dance performer. I love playing volleyball, practicing yoga, hiking in my free time. Also, I enjoy learning about different cultures and histories, reading poems, spending time with family and friends and watching movies.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Getting matched at my favorite Residency Program!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I found that it is the best place to become a competent physician to serve the patients better and the Eisenhower family will help my dream to become a reality. Supportive, collegial and friendly environment, being close to the family and friends and enjoying the sunshine in the beautiful Coachella Valley!
Marrey Ruby Quizon, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Pampanga, Philippines and Los Angeles, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Angeles University Foundation, Philippines
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Philippines
ABOUT ME: I’m just an average person that hopes to make it in a field filled with above average people.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Matching into Eisenhower Medical Center,
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? They give you what you need to grow as a physician: a great clinical scope, research opportunities and didactics. They also provide what you need to grow as a person: A welcoming environment, supportive faculty and staff, and friendly and happy co- residents. It’s a program that goes above and beyond what you would expect in a residency program.
Sina Mirbagheri, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Tehran, Iran
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Tehran University of Medical Sciences
ABOUT ME: I can say I’m very dedicated and hard working. I love to go out and hang out with my friends in the little free time we have. Also love cars and driving.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Doing Medical school in Iran, getting matched.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? There is a level of respect between everyone here that I haven’t seen anywhere else. On top of that you get trained by an excellent team.
Saniya Malik, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Islamabad, Pakistan and Gaithersburg, MD
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Riphah International University- IIMC, Pakistan
ABOUT ME: I love being out in nature. Thai and sushi are my favorite food. I am a pro at finding the silver lining in almost everything.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Served as an advocate for those who are battling thalassemia. Maintained a strong relationship with the community to provide diagnosis, treatment and care.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? It has the best working environment. Residents are taken care of and have the most supportive faculty.
Shaheen Lashani, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Greensboro, NC
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: North Carolina State University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in North Carolina and despite this I grew up as a fan of Kobe Bryant and the Lakers along with basketball and football. I enjoy spending time trying new food, gardening and traveling. Medical school not only allowed me to study the art of medicine but also granted me the opportunity to live in great places such as Washington D.C., New York, Miami, Baton Rouge and even internationally in St. Maarten and Vietnam.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Rotating in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam for six weeks as part of a global health elective during my fourth year of medical school.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower Medical Center had a rich history spanning decades with state-of-the-art facilities, a focus on teaching and high quality patient care. The atmosphere at Eisenhower is ideal for cultivating an environment to maximize both learning and potential. It is an honor to be a part of a program with well decorated physicians and hardworking staff.
Arya Khoshniyati, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Laguna Beach, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC San Diego
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I come from an extremely close knit family that has always supported me and my aspirations to become the first medical doctor in my family. Outside of medicine, I like to cook, spend time with friends and play sports (particularly golf, basketball and soccer)
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating medical school summa cum laude and matching in my home state.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? When researching what I wanted to find in my residency program, I found it important to balance both medical education with a family-like atmosphere. I found both at Eisenhower Medical Center. Hard work is a staple of any residency program, but having a tight-knit group of residents with you makes working and learning together something enjoyable and memorable.
Robert Cacdac, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Rancho Mirage, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UCLA
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University, School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Coachella Valley native who enjoys exploring new cultures and countries, playing tennis, and watching the Lakers.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Because of its diverse community and variety of social and cultural background of its residents.
Catherine Goff, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UC Davis
GRADUATE SCHOOL: USC
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. Georges University
ABOUT ME: I’m a first generation college student. I enjoy volunteering as a tutor, where I have the ability to instill the power of knowledge and academic strategy to a younger generation, especially those who are less fortunate. I am an avid enthusiast of soccer, hiking, kayaking. I love nature and exploring the great outdoors.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Getting my research published as an undergraduate. Receiving my Master of Public Health degree with an emphasis in global health leadership which allowed me to contribute to adolescent health projects at the World Health Organization. But perhaps more significantly, finally deciding to get out of my own way and realize that I am more than enough! Realizing that with a receptive heart and mind, purpose has its way of finding you.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? It was important for me to be a part of a program that was academically challenging while simultaneously supporting me towards fulfilling my highest potential. I am grateful every day to be a resident here and there is no doubt in my mind that I made the best decision.
Paige Dubin, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Thousand Oaks, California.
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Southern California
GRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Masters of Science in Global Medicine
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Saint George’s University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: In addition to medicine, my second passion is writing – especially poetry! I published my first poetry book at 17 years of age. I also enjoy spending time with my amazing family and traveling. I have been vacationing yearly in Palm Springs with my family since I was a child. I am thrilled to now call Palm Desert my home and to have the opportunity to help treat the wonderful people in this community.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I published two books, including a book entitled Mzungu and the Children, which describes my volunteer work at an impoverished AIDS clinic in Uganda during my Masters in Global Medicine program. I am also proud to now be fulfilling my dream of being a physician and I am honored to have the title of Internal Medicine Resident Physician at Eisenhower!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? During my clinical rotations, I had the privilege of working with the most compassionate and knowledgeable Eisenhower attending physicians and residents. I have always been confident in my decision to rank Eisenhower as my #1 choice for residency. Eisenhower has an incredibly welcoming work environment and the physicians and staff here provide top-notch patient-centered care. Not to mention, Eisenhower’s ambience is absolutely breathtaking.
Dona Therese El-Khoury, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Lebanese American University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Born and raised in Los Angeles, I was fortunate to study psychology at UCLA before continuing on to my medical training in Lebanon. Having family abroad in Beirut, I decided to leave home to build a new life that revolved around medicine in a foreign country. Those 4 years at LAU not only helped to build character and strengthen my medical knowledge, but I also had the chance to view medicine from a different perspective. I am grateful to be back in California for residency in beautiful Palm Springs. Outside of medicine, I love playing piano, going to the beach as often as I can, yoga, hiking and spending time with family and friends.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Surviving medical school, and of course matching at Eisenhower Health for residency!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I knew the day I left my interview that I wanted to move here and continue my career at Eisenhower. I felt at home at Eisenhower. The residents and attending were approachable and kind, and I felt I can truly learn all I can from this extraordinary team. I knew that this would be the best place for me to grow and be the best physician I can be.
Raphi Hambartzhumian, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Southern California
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Meharry Medical College
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. I love woodworking, cars, and barbecuing/cooking. Currently living in my favorite city to vacation in thanks to Eisenhower.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating from medical school and seeing the joy that it brought to my parents.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The camaraderie exhibited by the residents, the willingness to teach among the attending physicians, the state of the art facilities, and the clearly genuine nature of everyone I met at Eisenhower on interview day.
Arsia Jamali, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Tehran
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Sadr High School
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Tehran University of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine ABOUT ME: I am easygoing and enjoy social activities, travelling, and sports.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: During medical school, I considerably promoted scholarly activities and instructed multiple workshops on principles of research for juniors and seniors among other adventures! Following graduation, I did two postdoctoral fellowships at Harvard Medical School and Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Why not? Here, everybody is willing to offer help. Considerate staff, great seniors and outstanding attending.
Caleb Bonds, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Birmingham, AL
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Birmingham Southern College
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I grew up in the south for most of my life. I did my clinical training in New Jersey and New York City. Outside of work I enjoy writing and hope to publish at some point.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduated from medical school cum laude.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Community, coworkers, research opportunities, training, and reputation.
John Amerhom, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Sohag, Egypt and Torrance, California.
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Sohag University Faculty of Medicine.
ABOUT ME: I am a fortunate hubby and dad. I enjoy medicine, getting to know new people, and spending quality time with family and friends. My free time things are ping-pong, soccer, swimming, Netflix, Premier League, and PlayStation.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Completing seven years of medical school in Egypt, matching in my home state of California, and acquiring certifications in clinical documentation and medical coding.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Outstanding friendly and learning environment, delightful interview experience, and location close to family and friends in Orange and L.A. counties.
Mohammed Alani, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Baghdad, Iraq
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Al-Nahrain University College of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Born and raised in Baghdad, Iraq. Influenced by a dentist father and a gynecologist mother to pursue a career in the medical field and internal medicine specifically. I enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking and soccer.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I want to do a GI Fellowship.
Top 10th graduate of class 2016 Al-Nahrain University College of Medicine (NUCOM)
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH?
I heard a lot about Eisenhower Health System before I applied. During the interview I knew I would definitely fit in here perfectly. The program leadership is dedicated to provide the residents with all the means of success in addition to the friendly environment residents experiencing made me chose this program.
Roux Abubakar, MDResident 3
Internal Med Residency
HOMETOWN: Manila, Philippines
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Penn State University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I’m never bored. I collect vinyl records (33s & 78s), read books, and watch classic films. In my free time I paint and take every opportunity to go to museums. I love to travel and take film photos, as well. I’m incredibly grateful to have lived in different cities overseas and all over the United States.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Volunteering for Salybia Mission Project, a nonprofit organization in the West Indies during medical school and working as a professor of microbiology and physiology at a college in Los Angeles, CA.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH?
Everyone is so welcoming and I felt a sense of community during my interview.
Eisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 773-1221
Google Map · Campus Map
Specialties: Emergency Medicine*
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Internship: Nassau University Medical Center
Residency: Neward Beth Israel Medical Center
Languages: English
Practicing: 6 years
On Staff: 2 years
Board Certification: Authority: American Board of Emergency Medicine
* Board Certified in this Specialty
Eisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 773-1221
Google Map · Campus Map
Specialties: Emergency Medicine*
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Residency: Einstein Medical Center
Languages: English
Practicing: 2 years
On Staff: 2 years
* Board Certified in this Specialty
Eisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 773-1221
Google Map · Campus Map
Specialties: Emergency Medicine*
Languages: English, Spanish
Yrs in Practice: 6
Yrs on Staff: 6
Professional Education Medical School: KECK – University of Southern California
Internship: Loma Linda University Medical Center
Residency: Loma Linda University Medical Center
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Emergency Medicine
*Board Certified Specialty
Eisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Suite 108
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 834-3545
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Board Certified in Internal Medicine/Infectious Diseases, Vallari Patel, MD, received her medical degree from Tulane University School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine. She attended the residency program in Internal Medicine at Harlem Hospital Center and completed her fellowship in Infectious Disease at Tulane University Hospital & Clinics.
“I was very sick as a child and through that experience gained a great appreciation for physicians and medicine. By the 7th grade I had determined I would pursue a career in medicine and the sciences,” states Dr. Patel.
It was while in her residency program that Dr. Patel was drawn to the specialty of infectious disease. “Infectious Disease captured my attention and most interested me because it can affect any and all parts of the body,” Dr. Patel states. “I knew I wanted to specialize in an area that encompassed the whole body system.”
“When treating an infectious disease, patients are often anxious and are seeking information. When approaching a patient after my assessment, I explain to the patient what I think is occurring and what I think we should do to treat the problem. But I am very mindful that the patient is part of the decision making; I put myself in the patient’s place – what would I expect? As a physician you have to see both sides.” states Dr. Patel.
Specialties: Infectious Disease*
Languages: English, Gujarati, Hindi
Yrs in Practice: 12
Yrs on Staff: 8
Medical School: NHL Municipal Med Coll, Tulane University School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine
Internship: Aria Health
Residency: Harlem Hospital Center
Fellowship: Tulane University Hospital & Clinics
*Board Certified Specialty
Eisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Suite 108
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 834-3545
Google Map · Campus Map
Board Certified in Internal Medicine/Infectious Diseases, Vallari Patel, MD, received her medical degree from Tulane University School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine. She attended the residency program in Internal Medicine at Harlem Hospital Center and completed her fellowship in Infectious Disease at Tulane University Hospital & Clinics.
“I was very sick as a child and through that experience gained a great appreciation for physicians and medicine. By the 7th grade I had determined I would pursue a career in medicine and the sciences,” states Dr. Patel.
It was while in her residency program that Dr. Patel was drawn to the specialty of infectious disease. “Infectious Disease captured my attention and most interested me because it can affect any and all parts of the body,” Dr. Patel states. “I knew I wanted to specialize in an area that encompassed the whole body system.”
“When treating an infectious disease, patients are often anxious and are seeking information. When approaching a patient after my assessment, I explain to the patient what I think is occurring and what I think we should do to treat the problem. But I am very mindful that the patient is part of the decision making; I put myself in the patient’s place – what would I expect? As a physician you have to see both sides.” states Dr. Patel.
Specialties: Infectious Disease*
Languages: English, Gujarati, Hindi
Yrs in Practice: 12
Yrs on Staff: 8
Medical School: NHL Municipal Med Coll, Tulane University School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine
Internship: Aria Health
Residency: Harlem Hospital Center
Fellowship: Tulane University Hospital & Clinics
*Board Certified Specialty
Bashar Oudah, MDHOMETOWN: Baghdad / Iraq
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Al-Mutamaizeen High School
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Baghdad University/ College of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Practically in love with all the outdoors, but mostly kayaking, hiking, camping, barbecuing, and long road trips.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Matching with Eisenhower Health
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I am incredibly excited to have matched at Eisenhower Health because the program already feels like my second family. Everyone, from my fellow residents to the faculty and ancillary staff, creates a friendly environment where we can learn as young physicians and focus our efforts on taking care of the patient and still have a well-balanced life style. Besides that, living in Palm Desert has a lot to offer from new coffee shops and restaurants to easily accessible outdoor activities which makes more excited about the next chapter of my life.
HOMETOWN: Orange County, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Berkeley
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I was originally born in the Philippines, and I lived there for a while before moving to California as a teenager. I love food, fitness and my cat. The thing I most enjoy is spending time with friends and family doing just about anything — from playing board games to having potlucks, watching movies, hiking or cooking!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Completing medical school with high honors.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? There was a strong sense of warmth, friendliness and support among residents and faculty at Eisenhower Medical Center. I knew that this was a great learning environment, and I wanted to be a part of it.
Ramanpreet Brar, MD
Family Medicine
Ramanpreet Brar, MD, Board Certified in Family Medicine, assumed the role of core teaching faculty at Eisenhower Family Medicine Residency Program, after practicing traditional primary care for a year at the Eisenhower Health Center at North Palm Desert. Dr. Brar completed medical school in the Philippines and her residency program in family medicine at Eisenhower Health. She has decided to stay in the Coachella Valley as a primary care physician.
Growing up, Dr. Brar was always more interested in the sciences — which paved her path to a career in medicine. “I always wanted to become a physician since childhood days,” states Dr. Brar. “I decided to pursue my residency in family medicine as I enjoy caring for a variety of ages and find great satisfaction in treating patients within a family unit.”
Regarding interaction with her patients, Dr. Brar realizes her patient’s lifestyle, heredity and motivation all play into maintain health. “In some instances, I am a coach – helping patients keep motivated in lifestyle changes they desire,” reflects Dr. Brar. “In other instances, I am an expert, a diagnostician – who recommends courses of action based on clinical information that I translate to my patient.” Dr. Brar sees family members from infants to seniors; and welcomes patients to make appointments for themselves as well as other family members at the same time.
Wendy Lin, MDHOMETOWN: San Antonio, TX
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Texas A&M University College of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I am a recent graduate of family medicine residency. My interests include women’s health, hospital medicine and addiction medicine. Outside of my career, I enjoy going to the gym and weight training. I love spending time with my family, friends and my dogs Sally and Daisy.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I am passionate about education, curriculum development and women’s health. I have participated in projects that highlight the importance of resident education in sexual health and addiction medicine.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower Medical Center and Hazelden Betty Ford are world class institutions due to their commitment in addiction medicine. With the growing need in addiction specialists, I knew this would be the best place to learn and develop my skills.
Rajdeep S. Brar, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
78120 Wildcat Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Phone: (760) 340-2682
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Rajdeep Brar, MD, Board Certified in Family Medicine, is the Associate Program Director for the Eisenhower Health Family Medicine Residency Program and practices at Eisenhower Health Center in North Palm Desert. Dr. Brar received his Bachelor of Science at the Far Eastern University in Manila in the Philippines and received his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine. He completed his residency at the Eisenhower Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program where he also served as the Chief Resident during his final year. He subsequently served in the Core teaching faculty role for the Family Medicine Residency Program at Eisenhower Health for 3 years before taking on the role of Associate Program Director.
Being born in India and raised in the Philippines, Dr. Brar has a great appreciation for the availability of quality health care offered in the United States. “Growing up, preventive care access was limited in India and the Philippines,” says Dr. Brar. “Based on my experience of health care in India, the Philippines and the United States, I feel that I am best equipped here to deliver preventive and acute care.”
“I was always interested in the broad view of medicine that primary care affords. I am committed to treating the whole patient, not just a disease,” says Dr.Brar. “My role is that of a mentor or coach — someone to guide patients to make healthier life choices. I enjoy spending time with patients, understanding their lives and not just what ails them at the moment. It helps me provide the best care for that person.”
Specialties: Family Medicine*
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 2
Yrs on Staff: 2
Professional Education Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Internship: Eisenhower Medical Center
Residency: Eisenhower Medical Center
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Family Medicine
Melissa Burman, MDHOMETOWN: Chandler, AZ
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Arizona State University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Medicine and Health Sciences
ABOUT ME: I grew up in the desert of Arizona, racing BMX and mountain bikes at an early age that later became a professional cycling career. I studied Kinesiology at Arizona State University while racing competitively. After retiring from competitive cycling, I went to Medical School at University of Medicine and Health Sciences in St. Kitts to earn my MD, and Internal Medicine residency at Northside Hospital in Lawrenceville, Georgia. With a background in sports and kinesiology and a love for musculoskeletal medicine, Sports Medicine has always been a dream. In my free time, I love staying active and traveling. I enjoy hiking, biking, camping, cooking, yoga and time with my family.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I chose Eisenhower for many reasons, one of them being their reputation within the medical community, but also the reputation of the leadership within the Fellowship’s program. I felt a good connection with the team after my interview and felt what was being taught was in line with how I want to practice. Growing up in the Sonoran desert, I was also excited to return to the West.
Dave Patel, MDHOMETOWN: Detroit, Michigan
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Wayne State University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Born in Michigan and raised in the suburbs of Detroit. I am a big time Lions fan which I will be gladly representing as I look to settle down in California. I was attracted to Infectious Disease because it allows you to be a real life detective. Outside of medicine, I enjoy hiking, traveling, playing tennis, watching my Lions lose every year, and cooking.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Receiving the Resident of the Year honor after completing my first year of residency
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Incredibly brilliant attendings in Infectious Disease and other specialties, great support system, and great facilities
Xolani P. Mdluli, MD1180 North Indian Canyon Drive
Suite E218
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 416-4833
Xolani Mdluli, MD received his medical degree from St. George’s University. He completed his residency at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Jersey City program. Upon completion of residency and certification in Internal Medicine Boards, Dr. Mdluli served as a Hospitalist physician for four years at San Joaquin Pulmonary Medical Group in Bakersfield, California. He then pursued and completed a fellowship in Infectious Disease at Loyola University, Stritch School of Medicine in Illinois, where he was named graduating Fellow of the Year in 2013.
Born and raised in Swaziland, Africa, Dr. Mdluli saw first hand the HIV/AIDS epidemic unfold and ravage his homeland. When his family moved to the United States during his late teen years, he knew he would pursue an education in medicine and focus on infectious diseases.
“Working as a hospitalist physician before I entered my fellowship program, helped me to better understand comprehensive patient care,” states Dr. Mdluli.
With regard to patient care, Dr. Mdluli states, “As physicians, we work with people who are sick, often very sick. My patients are not just cases, they are individuals and I never forget that human element. My goal is to treat and relate to the whole person — often including their families — not just the disease.”
Specialties: Infectious Disease*
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 8
Yrs on Staff: 8
Professional Education Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine
Internship: Jersey City Medical Center
Residency: Jersey City Medical Center
Fellowship: Loyola University Medical Center
Board Certification Authority: American Board of IM/Infectious Diseases
*Board Certified Specialty
Aarash Habibi, MDHOMETOWN: Elk Grove, Ca
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Davis
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I finished high school in Jacksonville Florida, but my family and I relocated to northern California, where I started my college education. I am a big fan of sports, and I played soccer in high school and some in college. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. On my free time, I love going to the gym and staying active. My other hobbies include: traveling, rewatching the Office, hiking, snowboarding, eating tasty foods.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Had a great experience going to med school on an island and was fortunate enough to join multiple clubs where I was able to serve the underserved community.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The family atmosphere and the culture of the program was a big reason why I chose to train here. During my interview I had a really strong connection with the faculty and residents at Eisenhower Medical Center; they were very welcoming and supportive. In addition, EMC has all the resources and opportunities I need to become an excellent EM physician. Location was also a big factor, I love the diverse nature of the Coachella Valley.
Solomon Sebt, MDHOMETOWN: Carlsbad/San Diego, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Davis
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St Georges University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Grew up in Lawrence Kansas, but moved to UK for the majority of my high school education before coming back to the states. I relocated to the North Bay (San Jose) where I ventured into various business opportunities. I ended up owning and operating my own steam cleaning company before deciding to continue my education, which eventually lead to medicine. My decision really altered the trajectory of my life and set me on a different path, which I would like to think was my best decision yet. Having gotten to know myself I can say with confidence there is no other place I would rather be.
In my spare time I enjoy sending time with my wife and family. I love the outdoors; I do lots of running, when the heat allows. I have successfully completed more than a dozen half marathons.
I am also very interested in the sport of MMA. I trained full contact Muay Thai for about six years at the amateur level out of a gym in San Jose by the name of American Kickboxing Academy “AKA.”
More recently I enjoy working at this amazing hospital known as Eisenhower. I know I may be biased since I matched here, but I genuinely couldn’t have asked for better group of residents and people to call family as I continue to work alongside them day in and day out.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I think whomever is reading this is less interested in my academic achievements, and would much rather get to know me on a personal level, so hopefully I will have the pleasure of meeting you all in person and discussing whatever it is you want to know.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower is everything that I wanted in a program. It gives me lifestyle, friendly professionals that allow for growth, financial stability, location, resources, training (we see 85K+ patients a year), connections and much more – so come check us out and I am sure you’ll love it.
Jonatan Rojas, MDHOMETOWN: Loma Linda, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Union College, Lincoln, NE
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Loma Linda University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in southern California, left for undergrad in the Midwest and then was lucky enough to come back for medical school and now residency. I love sports and have played several team sports since I was kid. I also enjoy spending time outdoors whether it is hiking, camping, climbing. Some of my favorite hobbies also include reading, watching movies, cooking, and trying new restaurants.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: My academic highlight involved being able to serve overseas on multiple trips and getting to apply everything I had learned to serving those with poor access to medical care in Central and South America.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Of all the places I interviewed, Eisenhower was overall the friendliest place where I felt like I would have endless opportunities to learn, grow, and finish residency as a competent emergency medicine physician. The Coachella Valley is a beautiful place, with lots to do and was close to friends and family which was a big plus.
Iman Rasheed, MDHOMETOWN: Irvine, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Irvine
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Orange County, California. I am obsessed with the Lakers and grew up going to games with my dad! I am a huge foodie; I love trying out new restaurants. Other hobbies include the gym, cooking, yoga and binging reality television or HBO documentaries.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Going to medical school on a beautiful Caribbean island
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The faculty members at Eisenhower are genuinely invested in your success. Also, the fact it’s basically summer year round here was a huge bonus.
NAME: Michael Madatovian
HOMETOWN: Glendale, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Los Angeles
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Southern California, where I also went to college. I moved around quite a bit for medical school, living in six different states and a Caribbean island. I have been playing hockey since a young age and continue to do so in the desert! Other hobbies of mine include camping, woodworking, cooking, and guitar.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Having the chance to rotate in hospitals across the country and witnessing similarities and differences in medical subcultures. Basic sciences in paradise wasn’t bad, either.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH: The people at Eisenhower are genuine and welcoming. They intend to train the next generation of physicians by being kind and leading by example. I can’t imagine a better environment in which to learn and grow. Living in beautiful Coachella Valley and having more than enough to do is also a big plus.
NAME: Michael Hetzel
HOMETOWN: Springville, UT
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Utah Valley University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Kansas City University
ABOUT ME: I’m married to my beautiful wife who takes care of me and our two kids, a 4-year-old boy and 2-year-old girl. We love to do anything outdoors, including hiking, biking, camping and swimming. We also love to travel and explore new places. I grew up snowboarding in Park City every winter, and wakeboarding in Lake Powell every summer and still love trying to do that whenever I can.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Emergency medicine honors track student
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Location, Location, Location. My family and I love the endless opportunities for adventures nearby. We love going to Disneyland, the beach, and the mountains that are all close enough for a day trip. Being a community program, there isn’t much competition for procedures so I know I will be very comfortable on my own after residency. Palm Springs brings people from all over to visit and with that comes a huge diversity of pathology.
HOMETOWN: Redding, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Gonzaga University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Lincoln Memorial University – DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
ABOUT ME: I enjoy traveling, flying, golfing, camping, hiking.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Balancing medical school, publishing NIJ grant research, running a fire department as Assistant Fire Chief, directing a CPR community project and elementary health course simultaneously.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I love the idea of setting the path and building a new program. As a future ER physician, I wanted the opportunity to gain confidence, participate in every procedure possible, build a community and solidify myself as a physician. With no senior residents, the focus is completely on us. Fortunate to have matched to Eisenhower Medical Center and look forward to the coming years.
Arek Touloumdjian, MDHOMETOWN: Los Angeles, California
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School Of Medicine
ABOUT ME: In my free time I enjoy watching professional sports, exercising, and going to the movies.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Throughout medical school I helped organize preventative medicine clinics for locals to promote healthy living. Educating my community brought me great joy and reaffirmed my decision to practice medicine.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? What I love about being part of the Eisenhower family is its strong team culture, diverse group of practitioners and innovative approach to the practice of medicine.
Dillonjit Singh, MDHOMETOWN: Sacramento, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Davis
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School Of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I enjoy playing and watching sports with basketball being my favorite. I began playing at the age of 2 and have been a loyal Sacramento Kings fan since
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating medical school with high honors.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I felt that Eisenhower would provide me with the best teaching to help me become a successful physician for years to come. Biggest draw was the vibe I got from the residents during the interviews as I feel this kind of environment allows for higher quality patient care.
Arta Shirkhodai, MDHOMETOWN: Kihei, HI
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Hawaii at Manoa
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: Born in Virginia, moved to Maui, HI, have been island hopping sense the age of 9. From Maui to O’ahu to Grenada to Long Island before land locking myself in the desert. Needless to say, I’m all about the outdoor: hiking, swimming, tennis, soccer, etc.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Studied electrical engineering in undergrad before switching to medicine.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The real question is why not? Eisenhower is a beautiful facility with exceptional staff and enough resources to support an intern, allowing us to focus on learning medicine to the best of our ability.
Enrique Seamanduras-Navarro, MDHOMETOWN: Tijuana, Mexico
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Universidad Autonoma de Baja California (UABC)
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Universidad Autonoma de Baja California (UABC)
ABOUT ME: Born in Chula Vista, CA and raised in Tijuana, Mexico. I love soccer – my teams are Real Madrid and Tijuana’s “Xolos.” Craft beer enthusiast, I used to have a nano-brewery, now I only home brew when possible. Also, I was a beer judge at one point. I speak Spanish, German and am trying to learn Tagalog
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduated with honors from Medical school at Universidad Autonoma de Baja California. Studied in Germany for a year back in high school.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Amazing faculty and staff – very patient and teaching oriented. Eisenhower does a great job of taking care of everything you need as a provider in order to give high-quality care to patients.
Nasrin Saleh Jouneghani, MDHOMETOWN: Esfahan, Iran
UNDERGRADUATE: MEDICAL SCHOOL: Shakrekord University of Medical Sciences, Iran
ABOUT ME: I enjoy traveling, skiing, and exploring international cuisines to cook.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT:Working as a general practitioner in an underserved area of rural Iran for about two years.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Caring, supportive and positive environment of the program.
Carlos Ramirez, MDHOMETOWN: Cudahy, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University, Long Beach
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University
ABOUT ME: I have always considered myself a lucky guy. I have a family that has always supported me and great friends. I am outgoing with an amazing sense of humor. I know when it’s time to buckle down to get the job done but also enjoy bingeing a good TV show or all of them.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating from medical school and landing a residency in my home state of California. Also, consistently ranking third place in my pub trivia league.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Throughout the interview process, I felt that this program was always genuine and really cared about their residents. Working in an environment that favored teaching was very important to me. Being close to home and having friends and family in the area helped as well.
Bahar Parsa, MDHOMETOWN: San Diego
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: UCSD
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
ABOUT ME:
“Regrets, I’ve had a few,
But then again, too few to mention
I did what I had to do,
And saw it through without exemption
I planned each charted course, Each careful step along the byway
And more, much more than this I did it my way
Yes, there were times, I’m sure you knew, When I bit off more than I could chew
But through it all, when there was doubt, I ate it up and spit it out
I faced it all and I stood tall, And did it my way”
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Surviving medical school, on an island, without getting Zika.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I trusted my instincts. They’ve never let me down. When you know, you just know. The heart knows when you’re home.
Junko Ohara, MDHOMETOWN: Irvine, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL:UC Irvine
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME:I grew up all over the United States. I enjoy vegetable gardening and baking bread. I took a science detour in life before starting my medical career.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: My biggest achievement so far is graduating medical school, after my undergraduate background in Sociology.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? During the interview day, I immediately noticed the genuinely warm interactions between residents, faculty, nurses, and other hospital personnel. The collegial and supportive environment was very unique and I felt I would be welcomed here. Also, this program provides excellent clinical education and trains residents to be successful in their future career. I felt I would thrive here.
Nami Moradi, MDHOMETOWN: Tehran, Iran
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Yerevan State Conservatory of Music
MEDICAL SCHOOL: SGU
ABOUT ME: I am easygoing and ambitious and I carry my table tennis paddle with me all the time!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Getting into the residency of my choice
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I felt welcomed on my interview day. Resident were happy to be at Eisenhower.
Michael Manious, MDHOMETOWN: Chicago, IL
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL:University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign Graduate School: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I enjoy traveling and exploring new places with friends and family. Hobbies include camping, working on cars and road trips.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT:Teaching college level courses in Anatomy and Physiology; fulfilling my lifelong dream of becoming a physician.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Diverse group of employees; state-of-the-art facilities; welcoming and supportive teaching environment.
Jaspreet Kaur, MDHOMETOWN: Yuba City, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Davis
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: Born in India and raised in NorCal. I love watching re-runs of The Office and Friends. I enjoy cooking and meeting new people.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating Medical School with highest honors
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Really welcoming and pleasant hospital environment
Naila Javaid, MDHOMETOWN:Los Angeles, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Medical School: Dubai Medical College for Girls
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of Antigua
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Los Angeles, and attended Medical School in Dubai, UAE. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new places, and spending time with my family and friends.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Serving in the Student Union to promote research and scholarly activity during medical school.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? It feels like I was meant to be here- the people are incredibly friendly, and the Residency program provides a challenging yet supportive environment to learn and grow as a young physician.
Justin Ireifej, MDHOMETOWN: Upland, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Cal Poly Pomona
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of Antigua
ABOUT ME: Born in New York, raised in California. My personality is a strong mix of both. I enjoy film, sneakers (checks over stripes) and working out.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: The day I found out I matched and seeing the excitement in my parents face when I told them.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Close proximity to home. They take great care of Residents’ well-being and the support of the Eisenhower team.
Youssef Ghobrial, MDHOMETOWN: Fullerton, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Cal State Fullerton
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Saba University
ABOUT ME: I love snowboarding, paint balling, automotive customization, hiking and cooking.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduated Medical School: May 24th, 2019; Matched March 2019
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The facility is beautiful; the faculty is welcoming and knowledgeable. And last but not least, it is located in the beautiful Coachella Valley!
Joline De Castro, MDHOMETOWN: Darien, IL
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Loyola University Chicago
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born in Vancouver, Canada and raised in the Philippines. My family then moved to Chicago, where I went to high school and college. Being in the medical school allowed me to explore different parts of the United States. I wanted to start a new adventure on the West Coast. In my free time, I enjoy baking, trying new restaurants, spending time with my German shepherd, Atlas, and training him for competitions.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Getting published for research paper in the World Journal of Hepatology
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? When I came to Coachella Valley for my interview at Eisenhower, I witnessed two things that are integral for proper residency training: Happy patients and happy residents. The support, guidance and education that the residents receive from their seniors and leaders are unparalleled. The nurturing learning environment is evident in the satisfaction that patients have when receiving care from Eisenhower Medical center.
Maryam Barangi, MDHOMETOWN: Tehran, Iran and San Diego, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
ABOUT ME: I love going out for brunch with my family and friends
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Top ranked medical student at SBMU
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I love southern California and I love working with such a great group of residents and attendings who make me feel at home.
Kathreen Al Ramo, MDHOMETOWN: Nineveh, Iraq
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: St. Shmooni High School, Nineveh, Iraq
MEDICAL SCHOOL: University of Mosul College of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I see myself as a dreamer, hard worker and positive energy seeker. I always take notes and put reminders to be able to keep up with busy schedule. I love hiking and cooking. Currently I am trying to learn yoga and new food recipes.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Finishing medical school during a war!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The comforting environment and helpfulness of everyone made me feel at home when I first came to Eisenhower. There was a sense of community and family that made me feel welcomed and less homesick
Betul Bayraktutar, MDBio Coming Soon!
Camellia Shoapour, MDHOMETOWN: Irvine
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University, Fullerton
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Iran, and moved to the U.S. when I was 18 years old. I love to travel and learn about new cultures and their cuisines.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I was on Dean’s list for multiple semesters in medical school. I published a study in the Journal of Investigative Medicine during medical school.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I appreciate the resident diversity and the supportive and caring faculty. Also, training in Southern California is a blessing for me to stay close to my family.
Amylie Rojas, MDHOMETOWN: Tishomingo, OK
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Southwestern Adventist University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Loma Linda University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I enjoy traveling and experiencing new cultures and ideas. In my free time, I also like to bake desserts and spend time with family and friends.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Participating in community outreach was one of the most meaningful experiences I had while in medical school. Being able to mentor high school students who were uncertain about their future careers as well as providing care to underserved populations was very rewarding.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The faculty and residents are simply incredible. They are supportive, care about our well-being, and continually push us to be better doctors.
Daniel Lee, MDHOMETOWN: Temple City, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Irvine
GRADUATE SCHOOL: Columbia University, School of International & Public Affairs
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of the Caribbean
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Southern California. Growing up, my parents owned a travel agency and I like to believe that my early experiences abroad have not only cultivated my healthy appetite for outdoor adventures today, but have also instilled in me a curious appreciation for different cultures and the capacity to be open-minded. I enjoy hiking, camping, taking landscape/nature photography, cooking, and walking my 2 mini-dachshunds: Pepper and Ginger. My wife and I are diehard Dodgers fans and hope to follow the team one season across the country to watch every home and away game. Go Blue!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Teaching anatomy and physiology as an adjunct professor after graduating from medical school at two City University of New York (CUNY) colleges: York College in Queens and NYC College of Technology in Brooklyn.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower has balanced a strong commitment to providing robust medical training and education within a uniquely collaborative environment that emphasizes resident wellness, while simultaneously prioritizing our respective professional goals in medicine and in life. Bottom line: residents are well taken care of here so that we can better take care of our patients and maximize our potential for learning.
Mary Krendel, MDHOMETOWN: Atlanta, Georgia
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Redlands
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Saba University
ABOUT ME: I enjoy hiking and reading. My favorite author is Borges, and my favorite hiking trail is Franconia Ridge in New Hampshire.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I presented my research in hyperbaric medicine and street medicine at international conferences.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower Health provides compassionate, personalized healthcare services to a diverse patient population and has a kind professional culture. In other words, Eisenhower Health is full of good healthcare providers and nice people.
Gregory (Reid) Lancaster, DOHOMETOWN: Bermuda Dunes, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: St. Stephens University, Western University of Health Sciences
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
ABOUT ME: I have lived in the Coachella Valley off and on for the last 20+ years and I love it. The mountains, hiking, culture, GOLF, and diverse community are all part of what make the Valley great. My pride and joy come from my faith in Jesus, my wife, Megan, and daughter, Emmy. They fill my days with so much love and remind me constantly that meaningful relationships are what make life worth living. I hope to make our community a healthier place and not necessarily by striving to do great things, but by daily refocusing my efforts on doing the small things with great love.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I passed!
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? This is my home and Eisenhower focuses its efforts on providing quality and comprehensive care to as many people as possible in my community.
Neel Kotrappa, MDHOMETOWN: La Verne, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Claremont McKenna College
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I am born and raised in Southern California and a big time Lakers fan! I moved a whole 4 miles away for undergrad at Claremont McKenna where I majored in a Science & Management. I had the opportunity to play collegiate tennis at the highest level where I reached two NCAA team finals and two quarterfinals, was team captain, became an ITA All-American in singles (highest national rank #6) after winning the West regional tournament, and won an Ojai doubles title as a senior. After graduating, I went to Grenada for medical school and loved every part of being immersed in Caribbean culture. I’m interested in pursuing sports medicine (big surprise there) following residency. I’m super excited to be back in Southern California for residency and hope to make the most of my time here!
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Graduating Cum Laude from SGU and having my mom, hood me on stage.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? I fell in love with this place the moment I stepped in for my interview! Yes, the facilities and resources are amazing, but more importantly, the residents, faculty and staff were very welcoming, supportive, and made me feel like I can become an excellent physician. It really is a family here, and I couldn’t ask for anything more in a residency program!
Amir Jourabchi, DOHOMETOWN: Irvine, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Irvine
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Western University of Health Sciences
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Iran and moved to the U.S. when I was 18 years old back in 2000. I got my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in computer science and worked as a software engineer before deciding to switch careers. As much as I enjoyed working in the computer field I always somehow felt that something very important was still missing in my life. I knew that my passion lay elsewhere. I was always in search of a more meaningful experience where I could relate to people at a much deeper level and touch their lives. That’s how I found medicine to be my true calling in life. My particular interest is in integrative medicine, and my overall goal is to provide a holistic, high-quality care to my patients that is based on trust and respect and to promote a healthier lifestyle within the community. In my spare time I enjoy playing the piano and spending
time with my amazing family and friends. I’ve also recently started taking salsa and ballroom dance lessons, which I’ve been enjoying immensely.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT:
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? On my interview day I felt that the residents were genuinely happy, and the faculty and staff were very sincere, friendly, and welcoming. I was also impressed by Eisenhower’s state-of-the-art hospital and medical center. I thought to myself that being in this residency program would be a dream-come-true for anyone. So for me, choosing Eisenhower simply felt right. And now, I feel so proud and fortunate to be a part of this amazing family and can attest that the positive vibe that I got on my interview day was real. I love this program because not only is everyone committed to providing excellent patient care but also resident wellness is their top priority. The faculty and staff are knowledgeable, passionate, caring, and are committed to providing us with top-notch training. As a resident, I feel supported, valued, and welcomed. I also have the best co-residents that anyone could ask for. We are there for one another at all times, and there is no competition among us, just a sense of support. I honestly could not have been happier, and I know that I will become a well-rounded physician and overall a better person by being a part of this wonderful family.
Tania ChoudharyHOMETOWN: Mission Viejo, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Irvine
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I enjoy meeting new people and finding ways to help them have an uplifting experience. I love spending time with friends and family. I enjoy cooking, learning new languages and cultures.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Having the privilege to work with the underserved population.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The culture is very welcoming and pleasant. Eisenhower Medical Center is so close to home that I can go see my family whenever.
Paris Christodoulides, MDHOMETOWN: Vero Beach, Florida
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Southern Adventist University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Loma Linda University
ABOUT ME: Fun fact, every member of my family was born in a different country! I was born in England. I am also the first person in my family to graduate college and first one to become a doctor. In my free time I love lifting at the gym, playing tennis, video games, and exploring the outdoors.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Our school administers a senior clinical exam every year (similar to Step 2 CS) which tests students on medical knowledge as well as bedside manners. I ended up scoring in the top 5% ) Was happy about this because my relationship with my patients has always been my priority as I trained during medical school.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? First of all I heard great things about Eisenhower from current residents when I worked with them at Loma Linda (you’ll rotate at Loma Linda for peds). When I was on the pediatric inpatient team with them, they couldn’t stop talking about how much they loved working at Eisenhower. When I came here to interview, I saw for myself the dedication and the joy the faculty here had for their jobs.
Pallavi Bhat, MDHOMETOWN: Cupertino, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Kasturba Medical College (India)
MEDICAL SCHOOL: American University of Antigua
ABOUT ME: I lived in the same city for 18 years of my life and since then I’ve been constantly moving to different countries and states. Despite it all, California has always been the place I call home. (Just something about the sun and California lifestyle I guess.)
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: Getting the chance to work with underserved communities abroad, which has become a driving factor in my goal to make healthcare more accessible for everyone.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Right off the bat, there was a real “family” vibe between all the residents and faculty. Everyone honestly seemed so thrilled to just be working with each other that I was instantly drawn to the program.
Iris Baccam, MDHOMETOWN: Fort Worth, Texas
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of Texas at Arlington
GRADUATE SCHOOL: University of North Texas Health Science Center
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born in Sioux City, Iowa. My parents were Laotian refugees who came to America in the late 1970s. We later moved to Texas where I grew up. I knew I wanted to go into medicine; however, my journey led me to other avenues prior to attending medical school. One of those journeys included going into massage therapy. For seven years I was a licensed massage therapist and worked with people with special needs, including people with spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy and autism. I was also privileged to work with professional athletes. In my free time I enjoy hiking, weight lifting, drawing, cooking and learning about other cultures.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? After completing several clinical rotations in Southern California, it was clear I wanted to return to California and practice medicine. Eisenhower was the obvious choice. The residents and faculty were friendly and welcoming. Eisenhower provides a state of the art learning facility.
Nancy ArmaniousHOMETOWN: Lake Forest, CA
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: University of California, Riverside
GRADUATE SCHOOL: Boston University
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I love experiencing new adventures with my family and friends. I love to travel, indulge in new foods, and learn about new cultures and customs. Medicine- especially Family Medicine, is a way to do that on a professional level by building relationships with my patients and learning about their “story.”
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: My Medical Sciences Masters’ thesis was recently published in the Journal of Reproductive Endocrinology and has pioneered studies focusing on male hormonal contraceptives.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? Eisenhower has a high level of commitment not only to their patients but also to their staff and more-so their residents. Their commitment to high level of education and support was unparalleled with other programs. I am very proud and blessed to be a part of the Eisenhower team.
Anas Aljammal, MDHOMETOWN: Garden Grove, California
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: California State University, Long Beach
MEDICAL SCHOOL: Ross University School of Medicine
ABOUT ME: I was born and raised in Orange County. Although I have lived there my entire life, I have had the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world. I enjoy learning about different cultures and customs.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? The residents and faculty were all very friendly and approachable. They really care about their residents’ well-being. The program strives and focuses on educating their residents rather than over working them. This was a perfect fit for me!
Massoud G. Dezfuli, DOEisenhower Medical Associates
39700 Bob Hope Drive
Hirschberg Building, Suite 108
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 834-3545
Google Map · Campus Map
Massoud Dezfuli, DO, MS, Board Certified in Infectious Disease, and is an Osteopathic Infection Disease specialist. Dr. Dezfuli is the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program Director, Infectious Disease preventions Director, and was Section Chief of Infectious Disease at Eisenhower Medical Center from 2002 to 2004.
Dr. Dezfuli served his residency at Los Angeles County Hospital + University of Southern California Medical Center (LAC+USC), where he also completed a fellowship in Infectious Disease. Dr. Dezfuli then practiced Emergency Ambulatory medicine at LAC+USC before working in Primary Care. Since 1998, Dr. Dezfuli has maintained a solo practice, covering Infectious Disease, Internal Medicine and Hospitalist Medicine.
Dr. Dezfuli is a member of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons of California, the American Osteopathic Association, the American Academy of General Physicians and the American College of Physicians.
Specialties: Infectious Disease*
Languages: English, Farsi
Yrs in Practice: 26
Yrs on Staff: 22
Professional Education Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences
Internship: Los Angeles County Univ. of So. Cal Medical Center
Residency: Los Angeles County Univ. of So. Cal Medical Center
Fellowship: Los Angeles County Univ. of So. Cal Medical Center
Board Certification Authority: American Board of IM/Infectious Diseases
*Board Certified Specialty
K. D. Thrasher, DOEisenhower Medical Associates
45280 Seeley Drive
Argyros Health Center, Second Floor
La Quinta, CA 92253
Phone: (760) 834-7920
Google Map
Originally from the Coachella Valley, Dr. Thrasher attended the University of Redlands and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. As an undergraduate, he established himself as a self-proclaimed “lab rat,” studying the physical properties of a Human Myeloma Immunoglobulin. His postgraduate training took him to the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel where he studied with world-renowned structural biologist Dr. Henryk Eisenberg. Here he applied his research skills to study an enzyme from the archaebacteria, Halobacteria maris mortui, found only in the Dead Sea.
He later worked for Beckmann Coulter (formerly Beckmann Instruments), as a research chemist developing prototype analytical instrumentation for the hospital laboratory. In 1983, he co-founded Quantum Diagnostics, Inc. and provided contract product research and development (R&D) services for larger companies wishing to expedite their R&D process. Ultimately, Dr. Thrasher decided to pursue his lifelong desire of becoming a physician. He completed medical school at Western University of Health Sciences (formerly College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific) and residency in Family Medicine at the Shenandoah Valley Family Practice Residency Program — one of the few programs accredited by the Virginia Commonwealth University’s prestigious Medical College of Virginia.
For the past decade, Dr. Thrasher worked in semi-rural Virginia and comes to us most recently from even more remote, north central Washington State where he served as medical director, an emergency room and a family medicine physician as well as a hospitalist.
When asked what his specialty is, he responds, “the skin and its contents,” a quote he acquired from his grandfather who was a General Practitioner/Surgeon in Los Angeles for more than 30 years. Specifically, Dr. Thrasher has keen interests in lipidology (the study of cholesterol and its effects on the inside of arteries), diabetes and metabolic syndrome in both children and adults. In addition, he is experienced in the medical management of chronic pain as well as outpatient treatment of opiate addiction. He is a strong proponent of patient-oriented technologies such as the insulin pump. Board Certified in Family Medicine, he is as comfortable with children as he is with adults and seniors.
“I consider my role in my patient’s lives as that of consultant, confidant, comforter and mechanic,” says Dr. Thrasher. In the metaphysical sense, I am personally driven by the philosophy of the French Philosopher and Jesuit Priest, Teilhard de Chardin who said, ‘We are not mortal beings in search of a spiritual experience, but spiritual beings having a mortal experience.’ It is my job then to help ensure the mortal experience is optimized from a health standpoint so we are not distracted from all we are to gain otherwise.”
Specialties: Family Medicine*
Languages: English, German
Yrs in Practice: 19
Yrs on Staff: 9
Professional Education Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences
Internship: Shenandoah Valley Family Practice Residency Prog.
Residency: Shenandoah Valley Family Practice Residency Prog.
Mary Jo Groves, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 834-7920
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Specialties: Family Medicine*
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 37
Yrs on Staff: 2
Professional Education Medical School: Ohio State University College of Medicine
Residency: Wright State Family Medicine Residency Program
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Family Medicine
Kulwinder K. Fayssoux, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
45280 Seeley Drive
Argyros Health Center, Second Floor
La Quinta, CA 92253
Phone: (760) 834-7920
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Double Board Certified in Family Medicine and Integrative Medicine and currently one of only 900 doctors in the world with a certification in Functional Medicine through the Institute for Functional Medicine, Kinder Fayssoux, MD, joined Eisenhower in 2010. She was strongly influenced to pursue medicine through her mother — a nurse and two of her uncles, who are family practice physicians. She was drawn to a more holistic approach as she progressed in her training realizing that conventional western medicine alone was not the only way to heal patients. Dr. Fayssoux is one of the original faculty for the Eisenhower Heath Family Medicine Residency program where she loves to share this unique perspective of blending conventional medicine training with a more whole person approach with her residents. She also does bio-identical hormone replacement therapy and has a certification in Advanced Endocrinology through the American Academy for Anti Aging Medicine. Dr. Fayssoux loves to take care of all ages from babies to grandparents and has been featured on the local news and national publications. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Dr. Fayssoux Graduated cum laude with a bachelor of science degree in biology and a minor in theatre from Santa Clara University in California and earned her medical degree from Saint Louis University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri and completed her residency at Crozer Keystone Family Medicine Residency in Springfield, Pennsylvania.
Prior to working at Eisenhower Health, Dr. Fayssoux worked in Pennsylvania practicing outpatient care in Upper Darby and urgent care medicine at Crozer Emergency Department in Upland. While her husband did his orthopedic fellowship at Emory University, she worked in outpatient family medicine at Kaiser Permanente in Atlanta, Georgia.
“I truly believe that my biggest responsibility as a physician is to build relationships with my patients so that they can teach me about who they are and where they want to be with respect to their health so that I can help them figure out how to get there with as few medications as possible. If they are willing to put in the work and change their lifestyles, together we can change their diseases.”
Specialties: Family Medicine*
Languages: English, Punjabi, Spanish
Yrs in Practice: 13
Yrs on Staff: 9
Professional Education Medical School: St. Louis University Medical School
Internship: Crozer-Keystone Family Practice Residency
Residency: Crozer-Keystone Family Practice Residency
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Family Medicine
Marcel Fraix, DOEisenhower Medical Associates
45280 Seeley Drive
Argyros Health Center, Second Floor
La Quinta, CA 92253
Phone: (760) 834-7920
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Specialties: Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation*
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 12
Yrs on Staff: 1
Professional Education Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences
Internship: Pacific Hospital Long Beach
Residency: UC Davis Health
Fellowship: Western University Health Sciences – Downey
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Physical Medicine/Rehab
Scott E. Nass, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
Eisenhower Argyros Health Center
45280 Seeley Dr., 2nd FL
La Quinta, CA 92253
Phone: (760) 834-7920
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Scott Nass, MD, MPA, is Board Certified in Family Medicine and is Director of the Eisenhower Family Medicine Residency Program at the Eisenhower Center for Family Medicine in La Quinta. He completed his residency at Ventura County Medical Center and fellowship at both Ventura County Medical Center and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Before completing medical school at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, he received a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University-Bloomington.
Medicine is Dr. Nass’ second career. While he excelled in sciences and was positively influenced by his family physician growing up, he initially pursued a career after graduating from college in government and non-profit work. “After several years, neither of these endeavors fully resonated with me, and I realized I wanted to have a people-oriented career instead of one focused on policy,” states Dr. Nass. “So I applied to medical school and began my new dream of becoming a physician.”
Being raised in rural Kentucky, Dr. Nass’ boyhood family physician was critical as specialists were over an hour drive away. “The experience of observing the key role our family physician had on our lives is what guided me toward specializing in family medicine,” states Dr. Nass. “I want to make a difference in people’s lives — to put medicine in the context of each patient’s lifestyle, work and family life—from prenatal to geriatrics.”
“I approach my patients as a whole person, not just a health problem. I have discovered that often what a patient initially presents is not really the root problem. If someone is going to be totally honest with one person—it should be their physician. It is my role to provide advice and recommendations, not to tell patients what to do.”
Specialties: Family Medicine
HIV Medicine
Languages: English, Spanish
Yrs in Practice: 6
Yrs on Staff: 6
Professional Education Medical School: UCLA School of Medicine
Internship: Ventura County Medical Center
Residency: Ventura County Medical Center
Fellowship: Ventura County Medical Center
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Family Medicine
Patrick St. Pierre, MDDesert Orthopedic Center
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Harry & Diane Rinker Building
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 568-2684
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45280 Seeley Drive
Argyros Health Center, Second Floor
La Quinta CA 92253
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“My goal each day is to help patients alleviate pain, restore function and to stay active and healthy so they can stay fit for life.”
Committed to the care of athletes of all ages, Dr. Patrick St. Pierre is the team physician for College of the Desert, Palm Desert High School and Palm Springs Power Baseball. As Medical Director for the BNP Paribas Tennis Open, he cares for the world’s best tennis players on a yearly basis. He has also served as team physician for Army Athletics (West Point), Tacoma Sabercats (AA Professional Hockey) West Coast Hockey League, Tacoma Rainiers (AAA Professional Baseball) Pacific Coast Baseball League and Marymount University. He is a nationally recognized shoulder expert and as such, is the only Coachella Valley member of the prestigious American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and one of only 200 nationwide.
Dr. St. Pierre is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland. After completing his Orthopaedic surgery residency at Madigan Army Medical Center, he completed fellowships in Medical Research at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research and in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine at West Point. He is certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and is an active member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery, the Arthroscopy Association of North America and The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons.
Dr. St. Pierre is very involved in Sports Medicine and Shoulder research and has been recognized with several international and national awards. He has written numerous articles and book chapters, and has edited four books on Sports Medicine. He frequently lectures around the world on sports medicine, shoulder and arthroscopy topics.
Specialties: Orthopedic Surgery*
Sports Medicine
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 25
Yrs on Staff: 12
Professional Education Medical School: Uniformed Services Univ. School of Medicine
Residency: Madigan Army Medical Center
Internship: Madigan Army Medical Center
Fellowship: Walter Reed Army Med Ctr
Keller Army Community Hospital
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
*Board Certified Specialty
Eduardo P. Javier, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 837-8905
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Specialties: Addiction Medicine*
Hospitalist
Internal Medicine*
Languages: English, Tagalog
Yrs in Practice: 7
Yrs on Staff: 10
Professional Education Medical School: Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation Insitute of Medicine
Residency: Saint Johns Epis. Hosp-New York
Internship: Saint Johns Epis. Hosp-New York
Fellowship: Loma Linda University Medical Center
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Internal Medicine
American Board of Preventive Med/Addiction Med
*Board Certified Specialty
Matthew V. Diltz, MDDesert Orthopedic Center
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Harry & Diane Rinker Building
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 568-2684
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45280 Seeley Drive
Argyros Health Center, Second Floor
La Quinta CA 92253
Phone: (760) 568-2684
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“It is important to sit down with the patient and determine their goals, then use the resources available to achieve an optimal result.”
Matthew V. Diltz, M.D. is a Board Certified fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine. He is a native of Southern California. After graduating from the University of Southern California with a major in Sports Medicine and Exercise Physiology, he traveled to New Orleans to attend medical school at Tulane University. He returned for his residency at the University of California at Irvine. He completed his training at Boston Children’s Hospital — Harvard with a fellowship in Adult and Pediatric Sports Medicine.
Dr. Diltz has worked with athletes of all levels. He has served as team physician for Desert Hot Springs High School, Cathedral City High School, Xavier College Preparatory High School, College of the Desert, Northeastern University, and the Boston Ballet. He has received special training in hip arthroscopy and the treatment of complex ACL injuries. Dr. Diltz believes in an integrated approach to the treatment of sports injuries, with the involvement of physical therapy and trainers. He is committed to providing the highest level of care to each and every individual that comes to his practice. “I believe it is important to sit down with the patient and determine their goals, then use the resources available to achieve an optimal result.”
Dr. Diltz remains involved in clinical research. Multiple articles are in preparation as well as book chapters for Operative Techniques in Pediatric Orthopaedics. He continues to provide education to the community with lectures.
Memberships include American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, Arthroscopy Association of North America, California Orthopaedic Association and California Medical Association.
Specialties: Orthopedic Surgery*
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 11
Yrs on Staff: 11
Professional Education Medical School: Tulane University School of Medicine
Residency: University of California Irvine
Internship: University of California Irvine
Fellowship: Harvard University Medical School
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
American Board of Orthopedic Surgery/Sports Med.
*Board Certified Specialty
Xingzi Shangguan, MDSports Medicine Fellow
HOMETOWN: Lake Oswego, Oregon
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL: Vassar College
MEDICAL SCHOOL: St. George’s University
ABOUT ME: I like hanging out with friends, working out, traveling, cooking new recipes and making baked goods. I also enjoy trying out new restaurants and covering sports games.
ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT: I recently published a book chapter on meniscal tears.
WHY EISENHOWER HEALTH? It is an academic center with a lot of resources that cares about their residents and fellows. During my interview the staff were all friendly and knowledgeable.
Eisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 773-1221
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Emergency Medicine*
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: >1
Yrs on Staff: >1
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Residency: University of Connecticut
Fellowship: UC Irvine
Eisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 773-1221
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Emergency Medicine*
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 9
Yrs on Staff: >1
Medical School: Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
Residency: Rutgers New Jersey Medical School
Authority: American Board of Emergency Medicine
Eisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 773-1221
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Dr. Patricia Cummings is the Director of the Department of Epidemiology Research and Evaluation. She received her doctorate in Epidemiology from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Jonathan & Karin Fielding School of Public Health, and a Master’s Degree in Public Health with a specialization in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California.
Dr. Cummings joined Eisenhower in 2016 to conduct epidemiologic research and perform a wide range of investigative and analytical activities related to hospital-based disease surveillance, antibiotic stewardship, infection prevention and control, and population health. She has been the principal or co-principal investigator of multiple federal and local-funded research and evaluation studies focusing on antibiotic resistance prevention, the built environment, foodborne diseases, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular health, including school-based nutrition and food policy implementation. She has also conducted research on age-related diseases and received an award from the City of Los Angeles in 2009 for her research.
In 2015, Dr. Cummings developed and led the Built Environment & Health Impact Assessment Unit at Harris County Public Health in Houston, Texas. She was selected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Association of County and City Health Officials to be a mentor for their Health Impact Assessment Demonstration Sites. From 2008 to 2014, Dr. Cummings worked for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and was involved in a number of high-profile, public health policy evaluation efforts, such as menu-labeling, the County of Los Angeles’ Healthy Food Procurement Board Motion and 100% Healthy Vending Machine Policy. As reflected in her 2014 invited speech at the prestigious CDC Public Health Grand Rounds, “Preventing A Million Heart Attacks and Strokes,” and her publications on chronic and infectious diseases, she has substantive experience working on public health issues both nationally and locally.
Stephen R. Steele, DOEisenhower Medical Associates
45280 Seeley Drive
Argyros Health Center, Third Floor
La Quinta, CA 92253
Phone: (760) 610-7300
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Stephen Steele, DO, FAOASM, CAQSM is the director of the Sports Medicine fellowship and has practiced family and sports medicine here in the Coachella Valley for the past 23 years. He has been on the medical staff of both College of the Desert and the BNP Paribas Open.
Dr. Steele served his residency at the University of California, Davis, Mercy Medical Center then attended a fellowship program at the University of California, San Diego, in sports medicine. He spent two years as the Telluride Medical Director caring for injured skiers before moving to the Coachella Valley in 1995.
Dr. Steele is a past president of Eisenhower Medical Center’s medical staff and was the Sports Medicine Director at the Advantage Sports and Wellness Medical Group in Bermuda Dunes for 12 years. Dr. Steele also serves on the Board of Directors of the American Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine.
Dr. Steele has also continued his Navy career as a reserve officer after being a Navy Flight Surgeon on active duty. He attained the rank of Captain and retired after 31 years of service deploying once to Afghanistan. “The camaraderie I enjoy with Navy and Marine Corps Aviators is what has compelled me to serve for all of these years,” says Dr. Steele.
Specialties: Family Medicine*, Sports Medicine*, Sports Medicine
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 27
Yrs on Staff: 25
Medical School: Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
Internship: Naval Reg Med Ctr-SC
Residency: Mercy Med Ctr-Redding
Fellowship: University of CA San Diego Medical Center
Board Certification Authority:
American Board of Family Medicine/Sports Med.
American Board of Family Medicine
Justin M. Thomas, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Wright Building, Suite 201
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 834-3564
Justin Thomas, MD, is a formally trained and Board Certified Interventional Pulmonologist who specializes in minimally invasive procedures for diagnosis and treatment or palliation of lung cancer, benign and malignant airway disease, and diffuse lung diseases. Dr. Thomas is also Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine, and Critical Care Medicine.
Dr. Thomas received his medical degree from the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. He then trained in Internal Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota and went on to train in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, where he concentrated on interventional pulmonary procedures and performed research in interstitial lung diseases.
After finishing his fellowship in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Dr. Thomas pursued an additional year of formal fellowship training in Interventional Pulmonology at National Jewish Health in Denver, Colorado. There he trained with Dr. Ali Musani, a world renowned interventional pulmonologist and leader in this new field of pulmonary medicine.
Dr. Thomas is one of the first in the country to be formally Board Certified in Interventional Pulmonology. Having completed this fellowship training, he has become an expert in bronchoscopic procedures, some of which include electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy, radial and central endobronchial ultrasound, laser and electrocautery therapy, airway stent placement, balloon and rigid bronchoscopy dilation for benign and malignant airway disease (e.g., tracheal stenosis, tumor debulking). In addition, Dr. Thomas performs pleuroscopy to diagnose pleural lung disease and pleural effusions, tunneled pleural catheter insertion for palliation in patients with pleural effusions, bronchial thermoplasty for severe asthmatics, and percutaneous tracheostomy.
Before attending medical school, Dr. Thomas had a serious knee injury requiring a prolonged stay in the hospital. “This experience was invaluable as it gave me compassion and empathy for my patients and gave me a better understanding of what they might need,” states Dr. Thomas. “With critical care medicine, I am often working with families to calm their fears, and provide information and education regarding their loved one’s care. It is this interaction that I find very valuable and rewarding and have found that keeping a calm presence puts patients and their families at ease.”
In addition to a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Dr. Thomas also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music and enjoys playing the soprano, alto and tenor saxophones.
A New Treatment for Severe COPD: The Zephyr Valve
Specialties: Pulmonary Disease*, Critical Care*
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 7
Yrs on Staff: 7
Medical School: University of Colorado Health Science Center
Internship: Mayo Clinic – Rochester
Residency: Mayo Clinic – Rochester
Fellowship: University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
National Jewish Center
Board Certification Authority:
American Board of Internal Medicine
American Board of IM/Pulmonary Disease
American Board of IM/Critical Care Medicine
Anil Perumbeti, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Wright Building, Suite 201
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 834-3564
Anil Perumbeti, MD, is Board Certified in Internal Medicine,Pulmonary Medicine and Critical Care Medicine. Dr. Perumbeti received his medical degree from Northeastern Ohio Medical University, and then completed residency and fellowship programs at the University of Southern California.
Dr. Perumbeti is from a family of physicians which provided a natural pathway to the field of medicine. He is also a cancer survivor, having been diagnosed and treated at a young age. “Having grown up surrounded by healthcare, I was provided with a positive glimpse into what the field of medicine can be,” states Dr. Perumbeti. “I was drawn to medicine due to my early experience as a sick child and experienced firsthand how a doctor can positively affect someone’s future.”
As medical student, Dr. Perumbeti was initially exposed to the specialty of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, and was immediately drawn to that area of medicine. “I found myself comfortable and challenged,” states Dr. Perumbeti. “This area of medicine mixes the intellect — figuring out why someone is sick, and the practical — helping very sick people get well. I find great satisfaction in treating ill people and guiding them towards healing.”
Knowing his patient’s health goals is a key component to Dr. Perumbeti’s approach to patient care. “I place emphasis on listening and understanding how a patient wants to live and be treated, and what kind of kind of lifestyle they want to achieve.”
Specialties: Pulmonary Disease*, Critical Care*
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 5
Yrs on Staff: 5
Medical School: Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine
Internship: LA County – USC Medical Center
Residency: LA County – USC Medical Center
Fellowship: LA County – USC Medical Center
Board Certification Authority:
American Board of IM/Pulmonary Disease
American Board of IM/Critical Care Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine
Joan K. Dabu, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
Wright Building, Suite 201
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 834-3564
Specialties: Pulmonary Disease*, Critical Care*, Internal Medicine*
Languages: English, Tagalog
Yrs in Practice: 3
Yrs on Staff: 3
Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine
Internship: Saint Michaels Medical Center
Residency: Saint Michaels Medical Center
Fellowship: Saint Michaels Medical Center
Board Certification Authority:
American Board of Internal Medicine
American Board of IM/Pulmonary Disease
American Board of IM/Critical Care Medicine
Shahriyar Tavakoli, MDShahriyar Tavakoli MD, Inc.
41750 Rancho Las Palmas, Suite M3
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 895-4292
Dr. Tavakoli is the Medical Director, Pulmonary Clinic and the 40 bed Intensive Care Units located in Eisenhower Walter and Leonore Annenberg Pavilion. In addition, he is a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and holds memberships in American Association of Bronchology, American College of Chest Physicians and American Thoracic Society. Dr. Tavakoli has held numerous administrative posts at Eisenhower Medical Center and will be the Chief of the Medical Staff beginning 2014. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Critical Care Medicine and Pulmonary Medicine. He continues to maintain an avid interest in pulmonary and critical care and most recently chaired the 50th Annual Weil Conference in Critical Care Medicine. In addition to his yearly Critical Care Conference held on the Eisenhower Medical Center Campus, he has authored several publications within his field.
Specialties: Pulmonary Disease*, Critical Care Medicine*, Internal Medicine*
Languages: English, Persian, Spanish
Yrs in Practice: 24
Yrs on Staff: 24
Medical School: Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine
Internship: Los Angeles County Univ. of So. Cal Medical Center
Residency: Los Angeles County Univ. of So. Cal Medical Center
Fellowship: NIH and George Washington University
Board Certification Authority:
American Board of Internal Medicine
American Board of IM/Critical Care Medicine
American Board of IM/Pulmonary Disease
Raul Mercado Garcia, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
67780 East Palm Canyon Drive
Cathedral City, CA 92234
Phone: (760) 837-8993
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39000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage CA 92260
Phone: (760) 837-8905
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Specialties: Hospitalist
Internal Medicine*
Languages: English, Spanish
Yrs in Practice: 2
Yrs on Staff: 2
Professional Education Medical School: University of Baja California Mexicali
Internship: Eisenhower Medical Center
Residency: Eisenhower Medical Center
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Internal Medicine
*Board Certified Specialty
Henry Tung-Yun Tsai, MDDirector of GI Oncology, Lucy Curci Cancer Center, Eisenhower Health
Eisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Lucy Curci Cancer Care
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 346-7655
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For Henry Tung-Yun Tsai, MD, MA, a Board Certified Hematologist and Medical Oncologist – specializing in the treatment colon cancer and other gastrointestinal cancers, medicine has always been a part of his life. Originally from Taiwan, Dr. Tsai’s father and sisters all have careers in medicine – ranging in specialties from pharmacy to general surgery.
After having moved from Taiwan at age 14, Dr. Tsai attended the University of California at Berkeley where he received his Bachelor of Arts in molecular and cell biology/neurobiology. He received a Master of Arts degree in medical sciences from Boston University and attended medical school at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan.
Upon graduating from medical school, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia for an internship, residency and a fellowship in Hematology/Oncology at Emory University. It was at Emory where Dr. Tsai grew to love his chosen specialty: cancer care.
“Yes, cancer care is one of the most difficult fields to practice,” says Dr. Tsai. “But, it is also the most stimulating and rewarding. There are days when I see my patients get better and I have experienced hope. I feel privileged to be a part of their process.”
Dr. Tsai has been a member of the American Medical Association, American College of Physicians, American Society of Clinical Oncology. He has been the local principle investigator for various clinical trials and has presented at workshops and symposiums across the United States. He has authored a book chapter and manuscript related to cancer.
Specialties: Hematology/Oncology*
Hematology*
Medical Oncology*
Languages: English, Mandarin
Yrs in Practice: 13
Yrs on Staff: 10
Professional Education Medical School: Wayne State University School of Medicine
Internship: Emory University School of Medicine
Residency: Emory University School of Medicine
Fellowship: Emory University School of Medicine
Board Certification Authority: American Board of IM/Hematology
American Board of IM/Medical Oncology
*Board Certified Specialty
Ann Stapleton, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
4791 East Palm Canyon Drive
Suite 100
Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 834-7930
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Ann Stapleton, MD, is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease. After graduating from Harvard University with a degree in biology, Dr. Stapleton completed her medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, a joint entity between Montefiore Medical Center and Yeshiva University in New York. She then completed an internal medicine residency program at the University of California, San Francisco followed by a fellowship in infectious diseases at the University of Washington, Seattle.
“I was initially interested in science and medicine because I enjoy solving mysteries,” states Dr. Stapleton. “While in medical school, I found the most engaging cases to be concerning infectious diseases – which is one of the reasons why I have specialized in that field. Additionally, living in San Francisco during the beginning of the HIV/AIDS epidemic was transformational and compelling…one might say my career and history aligned.” As a young physician in the 1980s during the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Dr. Stapleton first became a primary care doctor for people living with HIV and she has witnessed the successful progress in the management of this condition. She will continue to provide primary care for HIV patients at the Eisenhower Health Center at Rimrock in Palm Springs.
For most of her career, Dr. Stapleton has been a physician at a university hospital conducting research, teaching medical students and treating patients. Dr. Stapleton’s research program for the last 25 years has focused on the causes, prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections (UTI). In addition to seeing HIV patients at the Rimrock site, Dr. Stapleton will spearhead a UTI Clinic, will continue her research work and will be an attending physician in Eisenhower’s residency program in internal medicine.
Specialties: Internal Medicine*
Infectious Disease*
HIV Medicine
Traditional Primary Care
Languages: English, French
Yrs in Practice: 29
Yrs on Staff: 3
Professional Education Medical School: Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University
Internship: University of California-San Francisco
Residency: University of California-San Francisco
Fellowship: University of Washington School of Medicine
Board Certification Authority: American Board of IM/Infectious Diseases
*Board Certified Specialty
Joseph Max Sanchez, MDNephrology Associates Med. Grp
1100 North Palm Canyon Drive
Suite 211
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Phone: (760) 323-1155
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36955 Cook Street
Suite 101
Palm Desert CA 92211
Phone: (760) 341-4839
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Dr. Sanchez brings a unique perspective to his role as nephrologist. He chairs the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee for the Eisenhower Medical Center, in part because of his undergraduate degree in pharmacy. At present, he is the Chair of the Department of Medicine. He is a stellar teacher and has been the recipient of the Bronze Beeper Teaching Award from the University of Michigan, School of Medicine. Dr. Sanchez is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Nephrology and has numerous research and clinical presentations within Nephrology.
Specialties: Nephrology
Languages: English, Spanish
Yrs in Practice: 16
Yrs on Staff: 16
Professional Education Medical School: University of New Mexico School of Medicine
Internship: University of Michigan Hospitals
Residency: University of Michigan Hospitals
Fellowship: University of Michigan Hospitals
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Internal Medicine
*Board Certified Specialty
Kam A Newman, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Kiewit Building, Suite 305
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 837-8569
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Kam Newman, MD, is double Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. He received his medical degree from Teheran University with honors and completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in New York, New York, earning the top ten score in American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). Dr. Newman completed his first fellowship program at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, Ohio and his second fellowship program at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute of Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease (NIAMS).
Dr. Neman uses cutting-edge science with musculoskeletal ultrasound and color Doppler to produce pictures of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints throughout the body to help diagnose sprains, strains, tears and other soft tissue conditions for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
In addition, Dr. Newman has published several peer-reviewed articles and books regarding large-vessel vasculitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, autoimmune neuropathy and other autoimmune disorders including autoimmune neutropenia, gene therapy, and medical ethics. Dr. Newman is a member of the American College of Physicians and the American College of Rheumatology and serves as both ABIM and American Board of Medical Specialty Diplomat.
Specialties: Rheumatology*
Languages: English, Farsi
Yrs in Practice: 4
Yrs on Staff: 4
Professional Education Medical School: Tehran University of Medical Sciences
Internship: Jamaica Hospital
Residency: Jamaica Hospital
Fellowship: Cleveland Clinic Childrens Hospital for Rehab
National Institutes of Health
NIH
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Internal Medicine
American Board of IM/Rheumatology
*Board Certified Specialty
Keyan Matinpour, MDEisenhower Medical Associates
39000 Bob Hope Drive
Mike and Jan Salta Health Center, Second Floor
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: (760) 837-8542
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NOTE: Dr. Matinpour is accepting new surgical consultations with a positive pathology report. New patient skin exams can be seen by his physician assistants: Bryson O’Neil, PA (Click for profile).or Virginia Silva, PA (Click for profile)
Keyan Matinpour, MD, is a Board Certified Dermatologist and fellowship-trained in Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology. Dr. Matinpour received his medical degree from UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society after graduating at the top of his class. During his training at UCLA, he was also awarded with the prestigious Longmire Medal Award from the Department of Surgery, which selects only one student from each graduating class. After completing his intern year at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in internal medicine, Dr. Matinpour began his dermatology residency training at Baylor College of Medicine, located in the Texas Medical Center – the world’s largest medical center and well-known for its cancer care. After graduating from his residency program, he pursued further training with an American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) approved fellowship in Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology at Houston Methodist Hospital, with the world-renowned Leonard H. Goldberg, MD.
Dr. Matinpour knew from a young age he wanted to pursue a career in medicine. At UCLA, he enjoyed all aspects of his education, but had a strong desire to pursue a surgical field. He decided to focus on dermatology and micrographic surgery, stating:
“In dermatology, I’m able to treat everyone of all ages and genders – with different types of diseases – infectious, oncologic, genetic and auto-immune, among others. I’m particularly passionate about preventing and treating skin cancer. Mohs micrographic surgery enables me to provide patients with the highest cure rate possible, while sparing their healthy tissue.”
Dr. Matinpour is married to Patricia Cummings, MPH, PhD, an epidemiologist at Eisenhower Health. He is an animal lover with two dogs. In his spare time, he enjoys music, art and plays the guitar.
What is Mohs surgery:
Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized, highly effective technique for the removal of skin cancer. The procedure was developed in the 1930s by Frederic Mohs, MD, at the University of Wisconsin and is now practiced throughout the world. Mohs surgery differs from other skin cancer treatments in that it permits the immediate and complete microscopic examination of the removed cancerous tissue, so that all “roots” and extensions of the cancer can be eliminated. Due to the methodical manner in which tissue is removed and examined, Mohs surgery has been recognized as the skin cancer treatment with the highest reported cure rate. (American Society for Mohs Surgery)
Specialties: Dermatology*
Languages: English
Yrs in Practice: 4
Yrs on Staff: 4
Professional Education Medical School: UCLA School of Medicine
Internship: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center – GME
Residency: Baylor College of Medicine
Fellowship: Methodist Hospital – Houston
Board Certification Authority: American Board of Dermatology
*Board Certified Specialty
