Residency Program Family Medicine
PGY 1 Residents
Sana Azami, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
Ross University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Wellness and Emergency Medicine
A little about me:
I’m from Greenville, SC and love waterfalls, traveling, hiking and pilates. I speak English and Urdu.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
JHMC thrives in an environment of community, diversity, and wellness.
Sonya Chemouni Bach, M.D., MPH
Profile
Education and Training:
SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University College of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Integrative Medicine, Reproductive Health, Global Health, Lifestyle Medicine
A little about me:
My hometowns are San Francisco & France. In my free time some of the hobbies I enjoy are Dance, nature, guitar & walking my cat. I am fluent in French and Spanish.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose JHMC because of the warm culture of care within Jamaica Hospital overall, and particularly in the Family Medicine program, diversity of patients, pathologies and providers, robust opportunities in my areas of interest, public health impact, benefits & union.
Michael Hanna, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Primary Care/Sports Medicine
A little about me:
I was born and raised in Southern California! I am a Coptic Orthodox first-generation Egyptian-American and I speak Arabic fluently. I have been living in New York for the last few years with my wife. I love to fish, play basketball and watch the NBA, and I am also a huge foodie.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
JHMC FM residency program truly has such a family atmosphere which is cultivated by our senior residents and faculty. Most importantly, I love being able to be a part of a community in need of our care and service.
Alina Intisar, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
St. George’s University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Integrative Medicine & Women Health
A little about me:
I’m from Brooklyn, a place full of energy and creativity! Outside of medicine, I love exploring art, trying new recipes, and diving into books. I also speak Urdu, which helps me connect with a rich cultural heritage.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
JHMC Family Medicine Residency program places strong emphasis on community-oriented care which aligns with my passion for serving diverse populations. The dedicated faculty and their commitment to mentorship provide a supportive learning environment where I can thrive. The continuous support from seniors and faculty during my initial months has reaffirmed that I made the right choice in joining this family.
Ratul Islam, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
American University of Antigua College of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Outpatient Primary Care, Sports Medicine, Geriatric Medicine
A little about me:
I grew up in Queens, the epicenter of diversity, culture, and great food! I attended New York University for my undergraduate studies, initially with biomedical engineering in mind, but life had other plans. Wanting to have a greater and more direct impact on my community, I switched to medicine. During medical school, I enjoyed working with patients of all ages and helping them build healthier lives, which drew me to family medicine. In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer, teaching my cat Salim new tricks, and watching horror movies. I am fluent in Bangla.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose Jamaica Hospital for an opportunity to work with a very diverse patient population.
Sara Jawhar, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
St. George’s University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Integrative Medicine, Preventive Medicine
A little about me:
Born in Queens, NY, I moved to Lebanon at age 12 and found my way back here for residency. I speak English and Arabic. My hobbies include basketball, hikes, reading and baking!
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose JHMC for its commitment to community-focused care as well as its diverse patient population. The culture of this residency has been a blessing with supportive co-residents to turn to. Being close to home was also a big benefit!
Hayeun Lee, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
St. George’s University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Geriatrics, Emergency Medicine, Dermatology
A little about me:
I was born and raised in Korea until age 14, then went to high school in the Philippines. I did my undergraduate studies in Michigan and now reside in New York. Outside of medicine, I enjoy exploring art museums, painting, and staying active through golf, tennis, and Pilates reformer. My first language is Korean, and I also speak English, along with a little bit of Chinese and Tagalog.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center Family Medicine Residency because of its strong commitment to providing comprehensive, community-based care in an urban setting. The diverse patient population allows me to gain experience with a wide range of medical conditions and cultural backgrounds, aligning perfectly with my interest in serving diverse communities.
Mohammad Naseem, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
Saba University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Primary care, Hospitalist Medicine and Urgent Care
A little about me:
Lived and raised in Queens, NY majority of my life. I attended Long Island University Brooklyn Campus for Undergrad and then attended Saba University School of Medicine. I am Fluent in Urdu/Hindi/Punjabi. My interests outside of medicine include history books, Film , visiting National Parks as well as cars.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose this program because I am able to serve the Queens/NYC area, a diverse patient population that provides substantial opportunities for learning. Everyone in the program has been exceptionally supportive and helpful.
Zubia Sagarwala, D.O.
Profile
Education and Training:
New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
Professional Interests:
Primary Care, Integrative Medicine
A little about me:
I am from Queens, NY. When I am not on the field taking care of patients, I am out on the courts enjoying the sport I love the most,Tennis! I am fluent in Urdu / Hindi.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose Jamaica Hospital as the residency program where I wanted to train for a multitude of reasons. Jamaica Hospital provides medical care to a largely underserved and diverse population. There is so much to see and learn and I knew that I would be well trained after 3 years. The program specifically appealed to me, when I completed my medical school rotation here. I saw how the program truly emphasized the “Family” aspect of Family Medicine. From co-residents, to Attendings, to clinic staff, and most importantly, the patients; everyone feels like a family member. Everyone is always more than willing to help guide you and challenge you to become a better physician.
Hasanna Taitt, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
St. George’s University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Women’s HealthMaternal Child Health Integrative Medicine Hospital Medicine
A little about me:
I love challenging myself and having new experiencing new things! Outside of medicine, you can find me salsa dancing, running, or spending time with friends and family.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose JHMC because I gathered that this program cultivates a supportive learning environment. Most staff have elected to stay at JHMC for 10+ years, and that really demonstrated to me that this is a special place. The family medicine staff is unparalleled, and everyone goes out of their way to help one another. There is community engagement and the program really allows you to work towards improving community health. There are ample research opportunities and an integrative health track. I felt that JHMC FM residency truly gave me the best opportunity to combine my interests in medcine while working with staff who are truly inspiring and uplifting!
PGY 2 Residents
Melina Basant, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Women’s Health, Community Health, Primary Care
A little about me:
I was born in Jamaica, Queens but grew up on Long Island. My hobbies include reading (currently re-reading Harry Potter!), exploring new places, and spending time with my family. I love seeking out new sushi and Thai restaurants!
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency because of the community it serves. Queens is such an ethnically diverse area and with JFK airport nearby, the pathology we treat here is just as diverse! As an added bonus, the faculty and residents here are truly supportive and receptive to feedback to ensure we get the best learning experience.
Ndeye Kane Diaw, D.O.
Profile
Education and Training:
Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine – New York
Professional Interests:
Family Medicine, Holistic Patient-Centered Care, Obstetrics and Gynecology
A little about me:
Born and raised in Senegal, moved to Bronx NY at the age of 13. I completed undergrad from Syracuse University and went to Tourro College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harlem campus. Fun fact about me is I have a niece who looks exactly like me. I am fluent in French, English, Wolof. Some of my hobbies are cooking, sleeping, & enjoying Netflix. I am interested in FM-OB and aspire to open my own clinic in Senegal.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose this program because of the various opportunities it provides, and I love being here with my co residents.
Lea Gance, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
St. George’s University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Integrative Medicine, Women’s Health
A little about me:
I am from Endicott, NY. I enjoy cooking (and eating), traveling (especially to eat), and spending time with my dog Bear.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose JHMC because they provide strong inpatient experience, a very diverse patient population, emphasis on integrative medicine and great co-residents!
Hamza Jaber, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Sports medicine, Outpatient primary care
A little about me:
I was born and raised in Flushing, Queens. I love playing and watching basketball and hanging out with friends and family. I enjoy watching horror movies and am a foodie.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose this program for the amount of experience we get, the patient population we serve, the varying pathologies and that I truly feel like we are making a difference with patient care.
Alexandria Jaramillo, D.O.
Profile
Education and Training:
New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
Professional Interests:
Integrative Medicine, Women’s Health and Osteopathic Medicine
A little about me:
Born and raised in Flushing, NY. Went to Stonybrook University for undergrad and NYITCOM for Medical training. Fluent in English and Spanish. Avid traveler and lover outdoor activities.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency :
I chose this program for its diversity, high population demand and rigorous training that helps us learn and utilize the plethora of resources to help people in need. Working alongside like minded individuals that share the passion of helping others is a bonus!
Fatima Khan, M.B.B.S.
Profile
Education and Training:
Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh
Professional Interests:
Integrative Medicine, Women’s and Children’s Health, Healthcare Equity, Palliative Care, Socially aware and culturally sensitive holistic healthcare.
A little about me:
A proud Family Med resident at JHMC, I was born and brought up in Dubai, UAE, attended med school at the historic Aligarh Muslim University, in India and gained valuable medical training experience in San Diego, California. My interests in making healthcare accessible & working with a diverse community brought me to JHMC. I’m a published author with works of prose & poetry to my name. I love exploring my collective heritage through family recipes while adding to the repertoire. My latest baking experiments can be found on my online food blog and in the residents’ call room. During my time off, I’m actively mapping New York through the lens of art, hot chocolate and green spaces.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose JHMC because of the Integrative Medicine track, Community HEAL rotation, research about racial discrimination & its various effects, the fact that it is a hospital that serves the underserved, and the involvement in community outreach projects made JHMC Family Medicine my top choice.
Telise Millingen, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
American University of Antigua College of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Geriatrics
A little about me:
I was born in Jamaica, West Indies. I moved to the Bronx at 13 yrs old. I enjoy listening to audiobooks, going to restaurants, Broadway musicals/plays, and going for long walks.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
JHMC serves a diverse population and cares for people from every cultural background. I knew training at JHMC would ultimately make me a well rounded physician. I am also passionate about taking care of the people in the community and knew it would give me great satisfaction as I have lived in Jamaica, Queens for several years.
Alisha Mir, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
Ross University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Hospitalist Medicine
A little about me:
Born in India, grew up in Princeton NJ. Went to Rutgers University for undergrad and Ross University for Medical School. I’ve been vegan for 10 years but before that I was nicknamed “cat” because of how much meat I ate. I am fluent in English, Urdu & Telugu. I like singing & dancing.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency :
I chose this program because of the variety of settings and patient populations we are trained in and I love how supportive everyone is from the attendings to residents and ancillary staff.
Crystal Pang, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine
Professional Interests:
Hospitalist Medicine
A little about me:
I was born and raised in South Korea and moved to New York when I was 10 years old. Currently, I am a new mom with a young toddler at home! I love to play pickleball and cook in my free time.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency :
I chose JHMC for the people, exceptional learning experience and OMT curriculum.
Rene Resendez Rodriguez, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Clinical Medicine, Integrative Medicine, Clinical Procedures, Dermatology, Urgent Care
A little about me:
I was born in Reynosa, Mexico. I am fluent in Spanish. Outside of medicine I enjoy cooking and experimenting. I also enjoy PC gaming, hiking, and piloting RC drones.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency :
I chose this program because Queens is the epicenter of diversity in the US; with it I knew I would get unique training opportunities I would not find elsewhere.
Sarah Varughese, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
Ross University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Integrative Medicine, Urgent Care, Hospitalist Medicine
A little about me:
I’m from New Hyde Park, NY. I enjoy nature and I take every opportunity given to be outdoors whether that’s hiking, running, playing sports- I love to stay active! I love spending time with my family and friends and especially cherish my evening walks with my husband and daughter. My faith is an anchor for me and daily prayer and attending church on the weekends helps keep me grounded. I speak English and Basic Malayalam.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency :
I chose JHMC because I love the patient population and it is a dream come true to serve my surrounding community. The attendings and residents are dedicated to teaching and function like a family. I feel so honored to train here!
PGY 3 Residents
Nida Hussain, D.O.
Profile
Education and Training:
New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
Professional Interests:
Community Medicine, Social Medicine, Health Equity
A little about me:
Born and raised in Jamaica, Queens. In my free time I enjoy reading, journaling, spending time with friends and families. I am fluent in Urdu/Hindi.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I was born and raised in Jamaica, NY. It was an honor for me to be able to serve my home community. We serve such a vulnerable population and can make a huge difference in their day to day life. It makes a world of a difference to be able to see that through, and makes coming to work every day worth it!
Alliya Shafi, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
American University of the Caribbean
Professional Interests:
Hospitalist Medicine & Diabetes Care
A little about me:
South Richmond Hill NY is home to me. I went to CUNY Hunter for undergrad and AUC for medical school. I like shopping and listening to music.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency because of the underserved/ under represented/ diverse patient population and the vast amount of different pathologies you encounter at JHMC. I love our program, we are truly a family and there is great comradery amongst the residents and faculty.
Zhanna Grigoryan, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
St. George’s University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Preventive Medicine, Women’s Health
A little about me:
I am originally from the Evergreen State (WA), but found my home in Brooklyn, NY. I love to spend time with my family and pets, and try the vibrant diverse cuisine here in NYC. My ethnic background is Armenian, and I speak Russian and Spanish.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
JHMC FM serves a very diverse patient population and given my cultural and language background I could see myself really connecting to the patients. As well the unique location of JHMC to JFK brings in a lot of interesting cases, that we have the privilege to learn from.
Haoming Liu, D.O.
Profile
Education and Training:
TouroCOM Middletown
Professional Interests:
Preventive medicine, Inpatient Medicine, Research
A little about me:
I was born in Beijing, China and my native language is Mandarin. Growing up I loved to draw and always had curiosity about the world. I came to US for college because I wanted to further explore my interest in science and medicine.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency :
I chose JHMC for the Diverse patient population and disease management, engagement with community, strong inpatient training, and robust OMT curriculum.
Elizabeth Murdakhayev, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
CUNY School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Women’s Health, preventative and Integrative Family Medicine
A little about me:
I am from Queens, NY. I am a mom of 2 now!
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose JHMC because of my co-residents! Everyone is super supportive, has each others backs, and are willing to help when needed. Also the diversity of patients, many of whom are in dire need of medical care and genuinely appreciate what we do.
Nicole Rozo, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
Ross University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Primary Care and Preventative Medicine
A little about me:
I’m from Queens, NY. I enjoy playing tennis and trying different restaurants around NY. I speak Spanish.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose JHMC because of the community it serves as well as the environment of the program itself.
Omar Shaaban, M.D.
Profile
Education and Training:
St. George’s University School of Medicine
Professional Interests:
Emergency Medicine, Global Health, Sleep Medicine
A little about me:
Born and raised on Long Island, NY. Outside of medicine I enjoy travel and live music in all forms. Spanish speaking. English too but you probably knew that.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose Jamaica Hospital Family Medicine Residency because my coresidents are great and being located next to JFK allows us to care for a diverse patient population providing an excellent learning environment!
Elizabeth Siaw, M.D.
Profile
Professional Interests:
Integrative Medicine, Women’s Health, and Preventative Medicine, Outpatient Medicine and Primary Care
A little about me:
Born and raised in the vibrant streets of Brooklyn, NY, I’ve always had a passion for cooking, with a special love for dishes that celebrate my Ghanaian roots. When I’m not experimenting in the kitchen, you’ll find me cherishing moments with my husband, newborn baby, family, and friends, creating memories that nourish the soul just as much as the food does. My passions lie in Integrative Medicine, Women’s Health, and Preventative Medicine, with a focus on empowering patients through personalized care. I am particularly drawn to Outpatient Medicine and Primary Care, where I can make a meaningful impact on overall health, while Aesthetic Medicine allows me to help patients enhance their well-being and confidence in a different, yet equally important way.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
I chose this program for its extensive exposure to a wide range of pathologies and the opportunity to work with a diverse patient population. I was also drawn to the strong camaraderie and support among the residents.
Haeinn Woo, D.O.
Profile
Hometown:
Port Washington, NY
Languages:
Korean
Education and Training:
New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
Professional Interests:
Primary Care, Global Health, Public Health, Integrative Medicine
A little about me:
I am from Seoul, ROK and Port Washington, NY. I enjoy spending time with my husky dogs in nature. I speak Korean and Spanish.
Why I chose JHMC Family Medicine Residency:
The reason I chose JHMC was for the people, our diverse underserved patient population, our dedicated faculty and staff, opportunity to learn from many specialists and rare interesting cases you see here.