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“My goal is to have every patient who walks out of my office feel a little bit better about at least one thing.”
Before urgent care was a reality, Dr. Alan Furst envisioned it. As the director of an emergency room physician group, Dr. Furst knew that a walk-in clinic that was open after office hours would be an attractive alternative to a hospital ER. He took that concept and opened the very first urgent care clinic in a rural area of New Jersey.
It took some time to build a following, but eventually the center was so successful that Dr. Furst and a partner opened two others. The early urgent cares operated differently than the clinics do today, establishing relationships with companies to perform corporate physicals and drug screenings as well as handling urgent care needs.
Over the years, urgent care transitioned into primary care for Dr. Furst, who enjoys the provider-patient relationships and the variety in family medicine. “I saw the advantages of working with a first-class primary care group run by physicians,” he said of his move to Vanguard.
“I have a very loyal patient base of people who have followed me from place to place, from Chester to Parsippany to Denville,” he said, crediting this to his unique approach. “I have a pretty informal style with my patients. I’m very open. We talk person to person, not doctor to patient. I’m just as interested in where they’re going on their next vacation as in their medical needs.” But his focus is to keep them healthy. “I’d rather encourage my patient to make a lifestyle change that will prevent plaque from building up in his or her arteries than treat buildup with medication or surgery.”
True to his urgent care background, Dr. Furst will continue to welcome walk-ins at the Randolph office.
When he’s not working, Dr. Furst enjoys racing and breeding thoroughbred racehorses. He served as president of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, helping to find homes and alternate careers for retired racehorses. He also likes to remain active, skiing, golfing, playing softball and doing his own landscaping. In addition, he is a self-professed dog lover, and once considered becoming a veterinarian.
He lives with his wife, Amy, and dog, Lydia, in Morris County, and is most proud of his daughter, Morgan, and son-in-law, Dan, who live and work in San Francisco.
“People are amazed at how many facets are involved in home care. Comprehensive medical care and education are at the core, plus we also address safety and financial concerns.”
With a childhood that spanned the globe – from Lincoln, Nebraska, to Nigeria – Adaku “Didi” Ezeadi saw the world at a young age. Her parents were college professors and she was destined for an educational journey in whichever field she chose. Didi found her calling in nursing, and ultimately, home care.
“I’m a very social person, and the other medical settings didn’t give me that chance to get to know my patients,” she said. “As soon as I started working in home care, I knew I had found my niche.”
Home care is just one way that Vanguard Medical Group increases accessibility to primary care. Didi brings a diverse background to her role as a member of Vanguard’s Primary Care at Home team, which includes geriatric specialists and experienced geriatric nurse practitioners who manage homebound patients. In addition to being an adult-gerontology nurse practitioner, Didi is a certified wound specialist, a licensed nursing home administrator, and has experience as a case manager. She has worked in hospitals, long-term care, hospice settings and home care.
Her focus in home care includes keeping her patients home safely and out of the hospital. “The key is education,” she says. “You teach them about their medications and make sure they’re taking them safely. You educate them about side effects. You inspect their homes and look out for difficulties getting to the bathroom. You address their diet to ensure they are meeting their own nutritional needs. You look out for loneliness and depression. It’s a comprehensive and compassionate approach. We strive to meet all the needs of our vulnerable homebound patients.”
Didi often sees the impact she can have on her patients and their families. “Even years later, I will run into family members of my patients and they will ask, ‘Didi, remember me?’ I love that. That makes me feel as if I have made a real difference in their lives.”
When she’s not working, Didi likes to read Shakespeare and novels. She is a big fan of mysteries and especially enjoys Agatha Christie. She is also currently working on her doctorate in nursing.
“When I see patients or their family members years later, and they tell me how I made a difference, it makes it all worthwhile.”
From pediatrics to geriatrics, and everything in between, Dr. Elaine Douglas has done it all. As a solo practitioner for many years before joining Vanguard, she handled all aspects of family medicine—following in the groundbreaking footsteps of her very talented father.
Dr. Fred Douglas, MD, was a charter fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the first African American to become a full attending physician at Mountainside Hospital, now Mountainside Medical Center. Elaine’s mother, Daisy Douglas, was one of the first black teachers hired at Montclair Public Schools, and inspired Elaine’s first career. Elaine earned a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s degree in education.
“In 1978, I was visiting my father in the hospital with a childhood friend after my father’s cardiac bypass surgery,” Elaine said. “My friend asked Dad if he was ready to retire. The way he spoke about medicine, with that twinkle in his eye, showed that he truly loved it. That’s when I decided to go back to school, because I knew I would love it, too.”
Elaine was able to complete her training in time to work alongside her father for several years before he retired. She continued in a solo practice before joining Vanguard. She was ready to share the administrative responsibilities of her practice so that she could spend more time with her patients.
“We share the same philosophy of patient care,” she said, speaking of the move to Vanguard. “We are family doctors who are empathetic, knowledgeable, and available. My patients have my full attention; they’re not rushed. It’s a very personalized approach. I get to know them so that I can provide the best possible care. Patients get called back in a timely manner so they can get their questions answered, and take action if needed.”
Dr. Elaine Douglas couldn’t be happier practicing medicine. She works with both adults and adolescents. “I really love what I do,” she said. “If I won the lottery tomorrow, I’d still come to work, because I enjoy it that much.”
When she’s not working, Dr. Douglas enjoys spending time with family and going to the gym. Once she is relieved of the administrative hassles of medicine, she looks forward to playing the flute again, reading for pleasure, and doing needlepoint. She also is going to become more involved with the Howard University Alumni Club of New Jersey’s Fred and Daisy Douglas Scholarship Fund, named in her parents’ memory.
“The best doctors go beyond the physical ailments in front of them and get to know the whole patient, where they come from, and what’s important to them.”
Dr. Simone Dougé witnessed the power of a caring physician when she was just a child. At the time, her grandfather was dying from cancer. “I remember vividly the respect that my family had for his doctors,” she said, “and the comfort that they provided him at the time.” It was that early formative experience that inspired her career as a primary care physician.
While she was completing her residency in family medicine, she observed the same caring approach that she remembered. “These were doctors who were treating the whole patient, not just going by the lab numbers,” she said. “They took the time to really listen, to find out who the patient was and what was important to him or her, in addition to treating the patient medically. It made for better quality of life.”
Dr. Dougé completed a residency in primary care and a fellowship in palliative medicine. She brings both areas of specialty to Vanguard, where she treats patients from infants to the elderly.
She prides herself on taking a personalized approach to patient care. Her patients tell her that she’s thorough and really listens. She also takes the time to follow up with a phone call when appropriate. “Over the years, I observed family members who didn’t understand what the doctor prescribed or didn’t get their questions answered,” she said. “That’s why I try my best to give thorough explanations. I want to make sure my patients leave the office feeling empowered and ‘heard.’”
When she’s not working, Dr. Dougé enjoys cooking, baking and exercising, especially high-intensity interval training (HIIT). On her “bucket list” is a trip abroad for a medical mission.
“As a family physician, I want to educate my patients, to help them improve their health and quality of life.”
Dr. Palwasha Daftani always had a love for art as a child, and imagined herself going into fashion design. She declined a spot at a prestigious fashion design high school in the city to attend high school in Queens. That pivotal move put her on a much different trajectory, one that included a medical education program in her senior year of high school. It was there that she discovered her talent for math and science, and her excitement about a career in medicine. She views medicine as a scientific study and its practice as a form of art.
“We got to explore different health professions, and we took trips to local colleges and once to a research lab,” she said. “They taught us scientific techniques and offered fun opportunities to explore and learn about health care careers and how to prepare an educational path to pursue them.I hadn’t had any female role models growing up who were physicians and so I never thought about it. But once I learned more, I knew that this is what I wanted to do. I could already imagine myself doing it.”
She got a jump on college classes during her senior year of high school, and went on to earn her biology degree, a medical degree, and a master’s degree in health services administration. She chose family medicine as her specialty because of its comprehensive focus and opportunity for continuity of care.
“In family medicine, we take on a role not just of examining the disease of a patient, but we also explore his or her social and emotional factors,” she said. “It’s a biopsychosocial approach to medicine, and it’s very important in treating patients as a whole.” Dr. Daftani prides herself on being a good listener. “I let my patients talk,” she said. “It’s very rewarding. It also helps to make a better diagnosis when you listen to the full details of their stories.”
The whole-patient focus was one of the aspects that attracted Dr. Daftani to Vanguard Medical Group. “Everyone here works as an advocate for the patient,” she said. “There is also an emphasis on preventive care, which is so important in overall health.”
When she’s not working, Dr. Daftani enjoys spending time with her husband and their three children. She is an avid reader and also enjoys exercising and traveling.
“My patients can talk to me about anything—even things that they can’t talk to their spouse or family about.”
It’s not uncommon for Dr. Wilson to treat three generations in the same family. As a family medicine physician, he offers primary care for all ages. Importantly, he works hard to earn his patients’ trust, and as a result, they often refer their family members—grandparents, parents, children, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
“When you’re treating generations of the same family, it’s not just taking a family history,” said Dr. Wilson. “You know the medical issues firsthand, and can focus on the right preventive measures.”
A lifelong learner, Dr. Wilson brings a diverse background to his practice—including degrees in philosophy and biochemistry. His father was a veterinarian, and ultimately inspired Dr. Wilson to pursue a medical degree. Applying to medical school during the mandatory draft for the Vietnam War, he faced unusually high competition for slots—and ultimately decided to study overseas. The experience bolstered his Spanish and French language skills, and gave him a global view on medicine. Internships and residencies back in the States provided the U.S. perspective.
After years of building a successful solo practice, Dr. Wilson joined Vanguard Medical Group. “I want to be able to spend time with my patients,” he said. “With Vanguard, I’ll have the infrastructure in place to handle the administrative tasks so that I can focus on patient care. My patients will also enjoy the services that Vanguard provides, such as an on-site lab for bloodwork.”
Dr. Wilson is known for his personalized approach to patient care and also his focus on preventive care. “I do a lot with integrative medicine, including nutrition and lifestyle counseling,” he said. “I also work with information technology in medicine. It’s a great interest of mine, and a focus at Vanguard.”
When he’s not working, Dr. Wilson enjoys traveling, reading, and music.
“Patients may see a series of specialists, from an orthopedist for a replaced knee to a cardiologist for the stent in their heart. But if you ask who their doctor is, they will name their family physician.”
When Dr. Robert Gorman was in high school, he heard about the shortage of family doctors. The American Academy of Family Physicians had recently been established as a specialty to encourage more primary care physicians. He was intrigued; he was interested in the career and knew he had the scholastic aptitude. “It was a goal that I thought I could reach, and I really never looked back,” he says.
Dr. Gorman currently serves as the chair of the board of the New Jersey Academy of Family Physicians, the state chapter of the national organization that inspired this journey. As a school physician for the Cedar Grove Public Schools, he’s a constant presence in the local community. A founding member of Vanguard Medical Group, he’s also the family doctor for generations of families.
“It’s the personal relationships that we have with our patients and the longitudinal care that we provide that distinguish family medicine,” says Dr. Gorman. “Those relationships are also what I enjoy most about my job.”
Patients tell Dr. Gorman that they appreciate his thorough, comprehensive and detail-oriented approach. “They like that I listen, which is perhaps the most important of all,” he notes. “They also like that I’m friendly and that I conduct office visits with good humor, when appropriate.”
Wellness is a constant focus in those conversations. “I try to encourage my patients to schedule a wellness visit annually,” he says. “But during every encounter, I’ll touch on some parts of wellness. That means if you come in for a sore throat, I’ll check to make sure your screenings and immunizations are up to date, or talk to you about smoking if need be. Preventive care is always top of mind.”
When Dr. Gorman is not working, he enjoys skiing, camping, water sports and the Jersey Shore. A former marathoner, he now prefers running after his grandchildren.
“When we encourage ourselves to pursue wellness instead of only responding to illness, we lead healthier, more peaceful, more fulfilling lives.”
It was an experience volunteering in Haiti that revealed Kelly’s true calling. “I was working as a teacher in the village school,” she says. “People assumed that, as an American, I had access to healthcare and they started bringing me their sick children. I had no training and couldn’t help. One evening, a friend showed up on our doorstep with his infant son, near death. My mother, a nurse, happened to be visiting. She intervened, and saved the baby’s life.” Inspired and determined, Kelly enrolled in a nursing program as soon as she returned home.
Kelly has since made annual trips to Haiti, where she has served as a nurse and translator with teams of medical, dental, and nursing personnel. “I’m inspired by the Haitian people and their incredible bravery despite difficult circumstances. It recalibrates me every time I go down there.”
Back in New Jersey, she worked for several years as an emergency room nurse; however, she quickly realized that she wanted to further her education. She earned her doctorate in 2017, and joined Vanguard shortly thereafter.
“I hope to inspire my patients to pursue wellness in body and mind,” she says. “I find that people often visit their healthcare provider reactively, because of illness. If I can help people to be proactive, and to pursue a healthier lifestyle, they may discover a more peaceful, more joyful, and ultimately more fulfilling life.”
When she’s not working, Kelly enjoys reading and spending time with her husband and two young children. She also enjoys hiking, photography, and traveling.
“You’re not just looking at disease, but at family and social interactions and lifestyle. We ask the pivotal questions. Who’s cooking at home? How is the stress level? How much exercise are you getting? Do you have social relationships? All of these contribute to a patient’s well-being.”
When your mother is a registered nurse, you get an early glimpse into what it’s like to help others. That’s what happened with Dr. Sally Mravcak. “Growing up, we always had people in the neighborhood coming to the house, asking for my mom’s help or advice,” she says. “That was my inspiration for going into health care.
She chose family medicine because she enjoyed every rotation during medical training, from pediatrics to women’s health to geriatrics. “I didn’t want to give any of it up,” she says. “I like being able to treat an entire family, from the children to their parents, grandparents and great grandparents.”
Dr. Mravcak began her career working in a federally qualified health center, spending eight years caring for uninsured and underinsured people in New Jersey. “I like to advocate for my patients,” she says. “Every patient deserves excellent care offered with dignity and respect.” Prior to joining Vanguard, Dr. Mravcak also practiced full time in a women’s health center, providing comprehensive primary care, office gynecology and acupuncture. In addition to family medicine, she is board-certified in integrative medicine and medical acupuncture, and believes in evidence-based, whole-person care that takes into account the role of body, mind and science in creating wellness. She offers medical acupuncture in the Jersey City office of Vanguard. These treatments may be done alone or in concert with traditional medical practices to prevent and treat medical problems and promote emotional and physical wellness.
“Vanguard is always on the cutting edge of family medicine, as our name suggests,” notes Dr. Mravcak. “We’re pushing the ball forward in medicine, and in technology, as far as it can go. We’re also very open and accepting of patients of all backgrounds. We see patients of all ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations and gender identities, and they each feel comfortable here.”
When she’s not in the office in Jersey City, you might find Dr. Mravcak on a biking trail, taking in some live music or spending the day at the beach with her spouse and two daughters.
“Primary care is the gatekeeper for healthy living.”
With a passion for science and a penchant for helping others, Physician Assistant Swetal Patel guides her patients to make the healthy choices that help them live their best lives.
It’s a lifelong pursuit inspired by her own childhood injury and a trip to the hospital. “The physician who took care of me was incredibly caring,” she says. “It made me want to pursue a career in healthcare so that I could do the same for others.” Swetal followed a science and math track, and ultimately found the physician assistant role in primary care to be a perfect fit.
Swetal brings diverse and extensive clinical experience to Vanguard, including work in a primary care practice as well as in outpatient and emergency settings. In the primary care setting, she is able to advocate for good nutrition, regular exercise, and staying ahead of potential disease through preventive screenings. “Armed with all of the information, patients can take control of their health,” she says.
Swetal values her relationships with her patients and is there for the long term. “I like to see the impact of our visits over time, such as the care plan that we follow and the lifestyle changes that the patient makes,” she says. Patients appreciate her thoroughness and like that she uses plain language when explaining medical terms. She ensures that they have the resources that they need to make healthy changes.
When she’s not working, Swetal enjoys nature photography and spending time in the great outdoors.
“Being part of a patient-centered health care team that includes physicians and physician assistants gives our patients options and flexibility. It also gives our care team depth and breadth.”
Lara Kothari credits her nurturing personality – and all the “medical talk” by the physicians in her family while growing up – for her decision to become a physician assistant in a family medicine practice. She also loved science and people, so it seemed a natural fit.
Family medicine was Lara’s first choice, because she got to work in all the areas every day: OB/GYN, babies and children, women’s and men’s health, and geriatrics. She enjoys seeing the children she once treated now going off to college, and treating them when they come back home.
“It’s wonderful to see continuity of care work at its best,” says Lara, who notes the importance of patient-provider relationships. “You don’t get that in an ER or hospital setting. But as a primary physician, you often get to know the whole family and you develop those relationships that increase comfort levels in sharing important information that can improve patient outcomes.”
She often hears from patients that Vanguard is comprehensive and well organized. “A lot of patients like the patient portal,” she says, “because it gives them 24/7 access. They also like the fact that Vanguard has all the services under one roof, from X-ray to nutrition to behavioral health and home care.”
With Vanguard Medical Group since 1999, Lara can’t imagine being anywhere else. “Selfishly, it completes me,” she says. “I enjoy it. I like making a difference and helping people in whatever small way that I can. It’s part of who I am.”
When she’s not working, Lara enjoys exercising and socializing with friends and family.
“A lot of times, patients can have anxiety when meeting a new provider. I try to make it easier by getting to know them. I give them the opportunity to talk, and I listen. Then, I can truly understand their concerns, and provide the comprehensive care that will keep them healthy.”
Dr. Kim is motivated by many things, but one in particular surfaces often in conversation—and that’s service to others. It’s why he’s made it a point to join medical missions traveling to some of the world’s underserved areas, from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to Tecate, Mexico; San Pedro Sula, Honduras; and Penang, Malaysia. He found that medicine provides him with the chance to make a real difference. “To be in a place where you can help others is a tremendous blessing,” he says.
He chose family medicine because he wanted to be involved in community care. At the heart of his practice are his patient relationships. Dr. Kim places tremendous value on building on those relationships and truly understanding his patients physically, psychologically and socially. “I value the time that I spend with my patients,” he says. “They can talk about private matters that they may not even discuss with their spouses. When you have that deep understanding, it makes a difference in the care that you can provide.”
Dr. Kim works with his patients for a mutual understanding of what’s important to do to maintain good health. “I can’t expect patients to change 10 different things in one visit, but I can start them in the right direction for preventive care,” he says.
He chose Vanguard Medical Group because of its patient-first, personalized approach that mirrored his own approach to healthcare. “Vanguard Medical Group provides a platform where I’m able to use up-to-date medical knowledge and today’s technology in caring for patients. Importantly, the process is dynamic, and can conform to patients’ needs. The patient always comes first.”
When he’s not working, Dr. Kim enjoys traveling, hiking, playing golf and spending time with family. From time to time, he also assists his father with the family’s agricultural business.
“Taking the time to listen and creating a dialogue with my patients helps me deliver care that’s uniquely suited to their needs. ”
As the oldest of four, Margaret Kelly grew up caring for her siblings. That was the inspiration for a career of helping others and making a difference. Margaret chose the competitive dual-degree physician assistant program at Seton Hall University, where she earned an undergraduate degree in biology and a master’s degree as a physician assistant. Today, she’s putting those credentials to work at Vanguard.
“My patients have told me I’m a very good listener,” she said. “I also take the time to fully explain their treatment plans and the thought process behind them. My patients seem to truly appreciate that.”
At Vanguard, Margaret has had the chance to treat multiple generations of the same family. “One of my favorite aspects of family medicine is being able to see somebody’s kids and also their parents,” she said. “It means a lot when a patient recommends me to a family member. When you have that trust, it helps immensely with patients wanting to follow my recommendations. That makes a difference in the care that I’m able to provide.”
“Vanguard truly is just as its name implies — ahead of the curve,” she said. “Patients tell me all the time that they appreciate the patient-focused approach that we provide. I also appreciate the supportive team behind me that allows me to work independently but also to consult with them whenever needed.”
Originally from Saratoga Springs in upstate New York, Margaret is getting to know the Jersey shore and very much enjoying the beach in the summer. She also loves to ski in the winter. When she’s not working, she most enjoys spending time with friends and family.
“Good communication between a provider and a patient is the key to getting the best health outcomes.”
When Krystal Green became a primary care physician, she fulfilled a long-standing dream that began when she was just three years old. At the time, she was offering comfort to her mother on the stillbirth of Krystal’s younger brother. “I told her that I wanted to be a doctor so that people don’t lose their family members ever again.”
During the summer following college, she shadowed her childhood pediatrician, a female practitioner, who was among her mentors. She continued on to medical school, where she discovered family medicine during her rotations. “I originally was going to pursue OB/GYN,” said Krystal, “but I realized that in family medicine, I could do so much more, including pediatric and adults. It was the perfect specialty for me.”
She often goes above and beyond for her patients in an effort to listen and communicate, especially in the area of preventive care. “I let them lead the conversation and then offer medical and healthy lifestyle recommendations,” said Krystal. “I lay out the options, risks, and benefits and ask, ‘What do you think about this one or that one?’ They seem to really appreciate that.”
“The job is living up to my initial childhood dream,” she said. “There are days when I feel so fulfilled. I know that I’ve really made a difference.”
When she’s not working, Krystal enjoys reading, writing, and exploring new places with her husband and family.
“I see patients through a family practice lens. I look at all facets of their mental and physical health to help them feel their best.”
Alexandra Citro discovered her future career while she was hospitalized at age 20 for a heart problem. “The physician assistant (PA) was amazing,” she said. “She took the time to talk with me and ease my fears during a scary situation.” Alexandra already had her eye on a career in healthcare, but at that moment she set out to learn more about physician assistants. “It was the perfect blend of everything I wanted,” Alexandra said, “with a large focus on patient care.”
She went on to work initially in hematology oncology with cancer patients, then in family medicine and urgent care. “I really love the continuity of care in family medicine,” she said. “I enjoy getting to know my patients and being able to help them not only when they have an immediate need, but with their overall health.”
As a telemedicine provider, Alexandra starts by reviewing a patient’s medical history before she sees him or her on video chat. “I like to get a picture of my patients first because that may affect the treatment I recommend.” She goes on to make sure patients have a medical home and addresses their overall mental and physical health during a virtual visit. “My focus is on the whole person, including preventive care. Therefore, I might recommend diet, exercise, meditation or other lifestyle changes that will help them feel good.”
Alexandra joined Vanguard for its focus on the whole patient. “I like that Vanguard isn’t linked to a huge hospital and is independent. It has a family feel to it where both providers and patients are part of that family.”
When she’s not working, Alexandra enjoys cooking and baking for her kids. She also loves to read. She and her husband, John, have three young children and enjoy spending time together. When her schedule allows, Alexandra also volunteers. She has cut hair for Locks of Love and packed lunches for Feed the Need, furnishing meals to children in Africa through her church.
“Anxiety is the No. 1 behavioral health concern that I treat, and understanding emotional stressors is key to improving one’s overall physical health.”
Laura Cannito’s career journey was driven by her desire to work with patients who have mental health concerns. “I became interested in the relationship between psychology and biology and how this relates to mental health care when I was in college,” says Laura. “Mental health plays a major role in one’s physical health and in primary care practice. Understanding social and family relationships can have a major impact on daily life.”
Prior to joining Vanguard in 2013 as a psychiatric advanced nurse practitioner, she was a charge nurse on the psychiatric unit at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center and a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Saint Clare’s Hospital in Denville. According to Laura, “I was attracted to joining Vanguard Medical Group by its unique patient-centered medical home model where health care providers treat patients as a whole – incorporating physical, mental and behavioral health practices.”
Taking the time to talk with patients about their concerns and creating a wellness self-care plan that includes addressing their mental health concerns and lifestyle changes is Laura’s specialty. “Seeing someone with a mental health concern whose job performance or relationships improved after counseling and is able to function at [his or her] full potential is very gratifying,” she says. Laura’s specialties include medication management and the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, illness anxiety disorder and depression.
During her time away from the office, Laura enjoys dancing, hiking and yoga. She is an avid photographer who loves to travel to new destinations in order to recharge.
“There is nothing more rewarding than helping someone get the care they need when they are at their most vulnerable.”
Suzana Cane learned the value of caring for others when she was just 17. She helped her mother with her uncle near the end of his life. “It gave me the idea that I wanted to be a nurse,” she said, “and be able to help patients and their families through difficult times.”
That experience launched Suzana on an educational journey that went well beyond her Registered Nursing (RN) studies. She earned her Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) credentials. “I wanted to be able to do more to help,” she explained. “Now I am able to treat the whole patient, make medical diagnoses and prescribe medications as needed.”
Suzana brings deep and broad experience to Vanguard. She has worked in a variety of settings, from hospitals to subacute rehabilitation facilities to long-term care. In her role as a transitional care nurse, Suzana visits recently hospitalized patients at home to help in their recovery and to prevent readmission.
The transitional care program starts with a visit to the patient in the hospital. That’s where Suzana introduces herself and explains the program. This is followed by the home visit, which involves a physical exam and time spent with the patient going over medications and follow-up instructions. During the visit, she may make follow-up appointments for specialists, check in with home care agencies, and advise on nutrition and exercise.
She especially enjoys that she can do all of that in a home environment. “In the hospital, it’s easy to become overwhelmed,” she noted. “When patients are home, they are less anxious and more comfortable. It’s an easier time to teach a patient and family members how to use devices, medications, etc. Importantly, I take the time to listen and address their concerns and make sure they are getting the correct care.”
When she’s not working, Suzana enjoys listening to music and watching movies with her two kids. Family is important to her, and she spends as much time as she can with her 93-year-old father.
“Preventive care is the cornerstone of primary care. As providers, the greatest role that we have is to educate our patients and promote wellness.”
Kristina Conklin’s first job after college wasn’t the perfect fit. But it was the inspiration for her lifelong calling. “I was working as a medical technologist behind the scenes in a hospital, and I missed the patient interaction,” she says. “I started volunteering on a different floor to be able to talk with patients and realized that’s what I wanted to do.” She applied to a physician assistant program and now enjoys forming those special relationships every day.
From the beginning, Kristina knew she wanted to work in primary care. “I enjoy getting to know my patients, learning about their family life and their challenges, and educating them about wellness. When you build relationships over time, you can provide continuous, comprehensive care. That’s what really draws me in—being able to make a real difference in their health and well-being.”
Kristin inspires confidence with her thorough approach. She takes the time to really listen to her patients and understand their perspective. The dialogue goes both ways; Kristin also spends time explaining her recommendations and educating patients about their illness and preventive care. “I encourage my patients to keep up on their immunizations and exams,” she says. “An asymptomatic patient who might show early warning signs of a disease is a lot easier to effectively treat than someone who is chronically ill.”
When she’s not working, Kristina enjoys spending time with her family. She also enjoys reading, traveling, and playing volleyball.
“The best care evolves from trusting relationships built over time.”
Dr. Stephanie Smith chose family medicine because it was “the package deal,” where she had the chance to do it all. “In medical school, we have the opportunity to rotate through each specialty area to see which we like best,” she explains. “I enjoyed every aspect of every rotation, from pediatrics to surgery to OB/GYN.”
Now at Vanguard, she’s developing the trusting relationships with her patients that are the foundation of great medical care. “Perhaps because I’m a woman, I see a lot of female patients,” she notes. “They tell me that they feel more comfortable talking to me about female problems. I really enjoy helping my patients, getting them through crises and making sure they’re doing all they can to stay healthy. It’s what motivates me to come to work every day.”
With a master’s degree in public health, Dr. Smith maintains a strong focus on preventive care and wellness. “Sometimes you’ll be able to prevent something before it becomes a bigger issue,” she says. “A great example is a mammogram. If we can screen more women, we can help catch cancer at its earliest stages.”
Dr. Smith was an All-American athlete growing up, and played soccer while at Columbia. When she’s not working, she enjoys introducing her young children to sports and spending time with her husband and family.
“Treating entire families is a special opportunity where you see the whole rather than only part of the picture.”
Alyse Stern started her career in a genetic testing lab, but was not totally fulfilled. “Although the experience was invaluable, I recognized early on that I needed to connect with people, and family medicine would allow me to work directly with patients,” says Alyse. “I wanted to care for whole families. I recognized that individual family members could provide insight and history that would greatly enhance patient and health care provider relationships, and result in improved quality care.”
For over a decade, Alyse has been enjoying the continuity of care and trust that develops between individuals and family members, and their health care providers. She finds it rewarding when her patients refer friends and other family members. “My patients inspire me every day, and for me it’s the icing on the cake when someone comes into the office and asks for me,” she says.
Alyse joined Vanguard in 2004 as a physician assistant and, under the guidance of a medical doctor, provides a variety of services to patients, including annual physicals, wellness checkups, diagnoses, medication management, blood pressure screenings, inoculations and vaccinations.
She’s also a certified Department of Transportation medical examiner, one of the few in New Jersey. This allows her to conduct the detailed physicals required for bus and truck drivers with commercial drivers’ licenses.
When she’s off the clock, Alyse is a busy mom who enjoys cooking, baking and spending time with family and friends.
“Problem-solving with patients to help find the right diagnosis and intervention is essential to restoring physical health. This is true for athletes injured on the field as much as it is for people hurt at work lifting a heavy box or having pain while playing with their children or grandchildren.”
Dr. Justin Yucht is on a mission to restore quality of life for all-level athletes, young adults, adults, and seniors with sports and occupational injuries; arthritis; back, neck, and joint pain; carpal tunnel syndrome; and other musculoskeletal and painful ailments. He is a primary care sports medicine physician and a physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) specialist, which makes him uniquely qualified to tackle both complex cases and common physical impairments.
“I’m a problem-solver. My goal is to identify the root cause of people’s pain and impaired function,” he explains, “which helps me determine the best path to returning them to a fulfilling and active lifestyle.”
Before he became a physician, Justin studied visual arts and biology. But he discovered his true passion in medical school, where he found the PM&R/physiatry rotations to be the most engaging. “There was nothing that brought me as much joy as being able to restore or preserve quality of life for patients,” he states. He completed his physiatry residency training at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, followed by subspecialty sports medicine fellowship training at Crozer-Keystone, one of the first of such programs in the country. When he added sports medicine to his credentials, he became part of a small group of specialists uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat complex cases.
“I want to make sure that my patients have a good understanding of what’s going on with them so that they engage with the treatment plan,” he states, and he notes that this is part of why he takes the time to teach his patients about their conditions and to answer any questions they have.
A Bergen County native, Justin wanted to raise his family and practice medicine in North Jersey. He chose Vanguard for its collaborative approach, its focus on the whole patient, and its dedication to expanding the role of community-centered outreach for local sports programs.
When he is not working, Justin stays active with his wife and two young children. He enjoys drawing, cooking, reading, music, and traveling.
“The best part is helping patients realize they’re able to manage their health through the way they eat.”
Michelle Tavares has always had a passion for healthy living. Her interest in diet and exercise inspired her career as a registered dietitian nutritionist, which has brought her immense joy. In this role, she helps people meet their health and lifestyle goals. Her specialties are medical nutrition therapy and diabetes management.
“I spent several years working at a hospital, where I saw quite a bit of end-stage disease,” she said. “I saw how uncontrolled diabetes was one of the primary conditions that led to these end-stage diseases. Since diabetes can be managed with diet and exercise, I thought this was where my expertise as a dietitian would be best put to use.”
As a registered dietitian, Michelle works in VMG’s Nutrition Counseling and Diabetes Education Program, providing patients the tools and knowledge needed to manage diabetes and health-related diseases. Services include weight loss counseling, medical nutrition therapy, diabetes and prediabetes management counseling, and personalized counseling on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She advises patients on the role that diet can play and creates a customized nutrition plan.
“I try to individualize sessions for each person based on his or her own unique needs and goals,” said Michelle. “I ask about the person’s schedule and cultural background so that I can truly customize a plan that will be a good fit.”
Michelle has created healthy versions of popular recipes. For example, she re-created a popular South American meal, modifying it for a heart-healthy meal plan. “I removed the salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure. I added different peppers and increased the oregano and garlic. I also included a touch of turmeric because it helps with inflammation. The patient loved it.”
Patients say that Michelle is easy to talk to and makes them feel comfortable. “I enjoy getting to know my patients and being able to individualize my sessions based on their own unique needs and goals,” she said.
When she is not working, Michelle enjoys running, skiing and exercising on her Peloton. She also likes trying new healthy recipes.
Pavan Sharma Helps Patients Harness Their Inner Strength to Make Lifestyle Changes Through Diet and Exercise
“The absolute best moment that I have in my job is when I connect with someone about his or her struggle with diabetes and my client will say, ‘Nobody ever told me that.’ It’s that moment that can be life changing – and lifesaving with diabetes.”
You might say that Pavan Sharma has a personal vendetta against diabetes. Her mother-in-law died from complications of the disease at an early age. At the time, Pavan wasn’t a full-fledged medical professional and was not aware of the profound effect that diet has on diabetes. Yet the early passing of a loved one inspired her to find out more about the disease. “I discovered that Indians are at a greater risk for diabetes,” she notes. “Most of my clients think that the U.S. has the highest population of people with diabetes and are surprised to find that India and China surpass the U.S. in the number of people living with diabetes per capita overall. And it definitely runs in families.”
Pavan is a registered dietitian and a certified diabetes educator, with a Master of Science in nutrition from the College of Saint Elizabeth. She also holds a certificate in adult weight management from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Her diabetes education program, “Simply Carb Counting,” has been approved by the American Association of Diabetes Educators.
Pavan counsels her patients about making smart food choices and adding physical activity to help them live longer and healthier lives. In addition to one-on-one visits, Pavan runs a diabetes self-management program in Vanguard’s Verona office. Patients tell her that they find her encouraging, helpful and well-informed, with realistic resolutions to issues that come up in diabetes management. “New patients may arrive nervous, thinking they may have to give up all their favorite foods, but they’ll give me a hug when they leave,” she says. “That’s when I know that I’ve connected with them.”
Importantly, Pavan provides patients with the information they need so they can make their own decisions about their health with confidence. “It’s the lifestyle changes that have to be made,” she notes. “How many minutes are there in a year? Of those, you see your doctor probably just a few minutes two, three, maybe four times during that year. But you live with diabetes every minute of every day. You’re the one who is really going to manage it. Your doctor and your team are there to support you.”
A sincere yoga follower since the age of 16, Pavan is up at 4:45 a.m. each day to do yoga. She eats a vegetarian diet and makes her own yogurt from organic milk. She also enjoys gardening and growing her own vegetables.
“Even minor illnesses or conditions can be a worry. I try to put my patients’ minds at ease by explaining exactly what is going on.”
As a member of Vanguard’s eCare team, Vimala Patel enjoys connecting with patients. This advanced practice registered nurse doesn’t mind the screen; it’s simply a portal into the lives of the people she meets. “I love the variety in family medicine and the opportunity to help my patients address acute and chronic conditions and enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle,” she said. “The virtual visit gives patients more flexibility and sometimes makes them more comfortable.”
Vimala began her career in an intensive care unit (ICU) in her home country of India. She came to the U.S. to complete her master’s in nursing, and then began work in the States in dialysis. As a nephrology nurse, she helped patients with renal failure as well as those with urinary issues, kidney stones, and other ailments.
She went on to work in asthma and allergy, motivated by an interest in that area. “I wanted to know as much as possible about allergies so that I could help people suffering from them,” she said. She continues to work per diem there, and in urgent care for continuing in-person clinical experience.
Vimala joined Vanguard to be on the cutting edge of telemedicine. As a member of the eCare Telemedicine team, she provides focused medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for patients remotely via a phone call or videoconference. “I try to explain in detail what is happening with their health and guide them toward next steps,” she said. “Once they understand, my patients often seem relieved. They are so thankful.”
When she’s not working, Vimala enjoys gardening. She also loves to travel with her husband and children.
“Family medicine is about making a difference in people’s lives every single day.”
Dr. Adrienne Salerno has always wanted to be a doctor. “I can’t remember a time when I wanted to be anything else,” she says. “I enjoy helping people.”
She started out her career in surgery, but found that she wanted more of a continuous, long-term relationship with her patients. Family medicine provided that connection. At Vanguard, Dr. Salerno enjoys the diversity of being able to treat everyone, from newborns to geriatrics. Often, her patients include various members of the same family.
“When I’m able to treat the whole family, it gives me the full perspective of understanding for the patients,” she says. “It’s easier to see the bigger picture, and that helps me make better decisions.” Toward that end, Dr. Salerno also makes it a point to follow her patients from office visits to hospitals or rehab, as needed. “You can see the difference in care delivered by someone who doesn’t know the patient as well,” she says. “It allows us to make sure that nothing slips through the cracks with these transitions.”
Dr. Salerno also uses her surgical background when minor cosmetic dermatologic procedures are needed, from cyst removal and abscess drainage to complex laceration repair. “I also perform ear lobe laceration repair,” she notes. “That’s pretty unique for most primary care offices, but we’re able to offer it right in the office.”
Dr. Salerno is on the Women’s Health Committee at Vanguard, to help improve services for female patients. These may include IUD placements, options for birth control and other procedures. The goal is also to expand education on women’s health topics.
When not working, Dr. Salerno enjoys doing CrossFit. She also likes to cook and spend time with her husband and children.
“It is important that patients feel comfortable talking with me and that they know they are not being judged.”
After years in the field of social work, Denise McClellan wanted to do more to help others. So she went back to school for graduate work in psychology. That’s when she realized the benefit of additional nursing training and added a master’s degree in nursing science. “I wanted to be able to offer holistic care, including prescribing medication when needed, along with providing psychotherapy and other supportive services,” says Denise.
Now, as a psychiatric advanced practice nurse, Denise has a comprehensive understanding of a patient’s biological and behavioral needs. “I evaluate and treat patients from the perspective of multiple domains, from their biological and mental health to their social and emotional needs,” she says.
Denise works with adult patients at Vanguard and typically treats behavioral health issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, substance abuse challenges, and sleep disturbances. From her previous experience working with members of the military, Denise has experience treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and individuals who struggle with psychiatric symptoms associated with traumatic brain injury. With her social work background, she provides counseling on a variety of issues, from stress management and coping with change and loss to relationship challenges, family dynamics, and personal and professional transformation.
Denise encourages patients to be active participants in their care, adding, “I feel it is important for patients to take ownership of their treatment and understand the goals and reasons behind it.”
Denise chose to work at Vanguard because of its primary care focus on behavioral health. “I was intrigued with addressing behavioral health in the primary care setting,” she says. “What I’ve found is that by offering behavioral health as part of family medicine, treatment becomes more acceptable, convenient, and accessible, and for most patients it’s also more affordable than in a private psychiatric practice setting.”
When she’s not working, Denise enjoys hiking, traveling, art, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
“The connections that I make with my patients are my reason to come to work every day.”
As a former Navy corpsman, Andrew Seise (pronounced “cease”) has treated patients of all ranks and statuses. But it’s the connections he makes every day as a physician assistant in primary care that are the most meaningful to him.
“I love the patient interaction,” Andrew said, calling it the highlight of his day. “I enjoy getting to know my patients so that I can better help them stay healthy.”
Andrew’s career choice was initially inspired by an incredible high school science teacher who taught him the fundamentals of anatomy, physiology, and biology. When he enlisted in the Navy, Andrew continued on that track as a hospital corpsman, dispensing first aid and care to the sick and wounded on ship and shore. After completing his enlistment, he decided to continue his education in a physician assistant program. “The more that they described it to me, the more it sounded like what I was doing in the Navy,” he said.
Family medicine was the perfect place for this veteran, father of two, and former youth sports coach. He enjoys helping everyone from children to seniors stay healthy. His patients say he’s a good communicator and easy to talk to. His military service gives him a special connection to his patients who are veterans.
In addition to treating illness and disease, Andrew educates his patients on options for treatment and preventive care. “Education is essential so that patients can be advocates for their own health,” he said.
When he’s not working, Andrew enjoys hiking, kayaking, camping, and outdoor activities with his family.
“Our Home Care program offers two major advantages to our homebound patients: It gives them the personalized and comprehensive care they need while still being covered under primary care. That means it’s good for their health and for their pocketbooks.”
The first physician in his family, Dr. Kannan Sivaraju had always been interested in health care. When it came time to choose a career, it was a natural step to pursue medicine. He chose internal medicine because it is interesting and challenging.
“It’s very rewarding when you figure out the diagnosis and cure the disease,” he says, “and also help patients improve their quality of life.”
Dr. Sivaraju earned a certification in geriatrics to better understand the unique issues faced by his older patients. He works frequently with patients in the Home Care program, which means he makes house calls. Regular care at home helps patients avoid unnecessary admissions to the emergency room. “These are patients who have difficulty coming to the office,” he says. “They may be elderly and chronically ill. Importantly, we do more than simply see them and prescribe medication. We’re able to perform many of the services typically found in the office, such as blood work and other diagnostic tests, including Doppler ultrasound and echocardiograms.” The team also can refer patients to hospice care, a home health aide service or wound care at home.
Dr. Sivaraju enjoys the autonomy that comes from working in a physician-led practice rather than one dictated by a hospital. “The benefits to the patient are tremendous,” he says. “There are virtually no delays in patient care. Patients or caregivers can get in touch with us through the web portal or via phone. If they need a refill on medication, or if they want to schedule a same-day visit, they can do that easily. We also respond right away to patient messages. We work to deliver high patient satisfaction.”
When he’s not working, Dr. Sivaraju enjoys watching movies or dining out with his family at local restaurants.
“Whether it’s counseling on preventive care or treating acute and chronic illness, I get a lot of satisfaction from helping my patients.”
Learning has always been a priority for Dr. Joan Mariyampillai. Having completed higher secondary education in her native Sri Lanka, she went on to study medicine in India at the University of Madras, Stanley Medical College. Her perseverance and hard work earned her a nomination by the Ministry of External Affairs of the Central Government of India to pursue a career in medicine.
Dr. Mariyampillai is an internist, a primary care physician who cares for patients who are 18 years old and older. Internists differ from family physicians in that they do not offer pediatric or gynecology services but are specially trained in adult diseases and disorders. As a primary care physician, Dr. Mariyampillai treats acute and chronic illness and helps her patients stay healthy through preventive care.
She follows guidelines for preventive screenings and recommends tests as age-appropriate. Also, patients who require genetic counseling and oncological workups are referred accordingly. “If patients have a family history, I may recommend an age-appropriate screening earlier,” she noted. “Patients are individuals, and it’s important to offer individualized care.”
Dr. Mariyampillai has lived and practiced medicine in the U.S. since 1995. She brings broad and varied experience to Vanguard, including three years of work in tropical medicine in West Africa and additional experience in occupational medicine in New Jersey. She has treated generations of families in the Verona area. Her patients say they enjoy her compassionate, caring approach and diligent follow-up.
When she’s not working, Dr. Mariyampillai enjoys traveling, reading, gardening and listening to music. She and her husband, Marcarious, have three grown children.
“One of the most important jobs of a primary care professional is to stop and listen.”
Julie Mathew chose the health care field because she can make a difference in a life. “What attracted me to being a primary care physician assistant, and what keeps me going, is that I’m helping my patients strive to have a healthy life,” says Julie. “My day is filled with seeing patients, ordering labs and diagnosing patients with conditions ranging from a simple cold to diabetes, stroke or chest pains. I pay attention to everything they say, which helps me gauge how they are doing or what they need. It is so satisfying when a patient’s health improves because they listened and followed my guidance.”
Julie was attracted specifically to family medicine because every day provides something different. “There are days when my patients run the gamut from pediatrics to geriatrics, and their needs range from a wellness visit to relieving a common cold to managing hypertension or diabetes. I thrive on the variety family medicine offers, the opportunity to build strong relationships and the fulfillment I get from helping improve the health of another person.”
She joined Vanguard in 2011 as a physician assistant and, under the guidance of a medical doctor, provides a variety of services to patients, including annual physicals, wellness checkups, diagnoses, medication management, blood pressure screenings, inoculations and vaccinations. Prior to Vanguard, Julie worked in neurosurgery at UMDNJ.
Julie is fluent in Malayalam, a South Indian dialect, which has been helpful in the office, especially when communicating with elderly patients who speak English as a second language. “In any language, people want to be understood and we need to listen.” When she is not seeing patients, she keeps herself busy as a mother of two children and, in her spare time, loves to travel.
“As an osteopath (DO), I focus on the musculoskeletal system, which makes up about 70 percent of our body. When functioning properly, it helps keep you in optimum health.”
It seemed that Dr. Carmine Mazzella was destined to become a family doctor. He entered the world delivered by a family member who was a doctor. His godfather also was a physician. “Growing up, I had these incredible role models,” he says. “My godfather in particular was instrumental in my decision to become a physician. He was delighted by my career choice.”
Dr. Mazzella joined Vanguard soon after his graduation from medical school. He had worked weekends at the practice during his final year. “Vanguard was a very good fit for me. I liked the scope of services and the patient-centered approach. Since I had trained in Verona, I already had relationships with the specialists in the area for patient consultations as needed.”
He has a growing patient base that is primarily referred by “word of mouth.” “Patients usually develop a relationship with a lead provider,” notes Dr. Mazzella, “and have an entire team available for emergent needs like sick visits.” He has developed relationships with multiple family members, cultivating a deeper knowledge of family histories that help inform health care decisions.
Dr. Mazzella helps patients with chronic disease, including managing diabetes, hypertension and cholesterol. He also focuses on the need for preventive care screenings. Because of his osteopathic training, he looks at disease a little differently – in how it relates to the musculoskeletal system. In that regard, he sometimes incorporates spinal manipulation, massage, exercise and physical therapy into patient treatment plans. The goal is to reduce pressure on joints and reduce inflammation.
When he’s not working, Dr. Mazzella enjoys photography, a hobby that he pursues with his wife. They also like to go camping and hiking.
“Sometimes, we use our expertise as primary care physicians to reassure patients. Sometimes, we cure their ailments or ease their pain. Sometimes, we connect them with the resources they need that make a real difference in their quality of life.”
Long before Dr. Thomas McCarrick ever held a stethoscope or peered into the depths of a sore throat, he was a kid in the Bronx who was impressed by a family doctor. It’s what motivated him to go into medicine and, specifically, primary care. “I wanted to be him. I liked science and I liked helping people. I wanted to be able to make a difference, and I saw medicine as the way to do it.”
Today, Dr. McCarrick gets a lot of satisfaction from helping his patients feel better and enjoy a better quality of life. As a family physician, he enjoys the warm feeling he gets taking care of a grandchild and then the grandparents, and maybe the parents too. He also likes the insight into their family health history. It helps him identify health risks.
As he’s gotten older, he’s also completed an additional certification in geriatrics so that he can better understand treatment of older adults. “There are patients whom I’ve cared for, for more than three decades now. I want to continue to keep them as healthy as they can be.” As a result, Dr. McCarrick is a constant presence at area nursing homes. He also spearheaded the nonprofit association Care at Home to bring medical care and other resources to homebound seniors and their caregivers.
On the other end of the spectrum, he’s the school physician for Cedar Grove Public Schools, a responsibility that he shares with Vanguard’s Dr. Robert Gorman. As a result, he’s a regular presence at Cedar Grove High School football games.
Preventive care remains top of mind, even when Dr. McCarrick is treating a patient for a cold or another illness or injury. “There’s a tendency to put it off, or address it once a year in a physical. We just try to keep it top of mind by reminding patients about important screenings or getting that flu shot. People get their air conditioners serviced every year; they get their gutters cleaned. You need to be their partner in health care, and this includes reminding them to get the preventive care they need too.”
One of the founding physicians at Vanguard Medical Group, Dr. McCarrick also serves as chief medical officer and chief informatics officer (view his full biography here). His longstanding interest in the use of information technology and computers in medicine led him to pursue a master’s degree in biomedical informatics. He’s also on the forefront of the new field of clinical informatics, having earned one of the earliest certifications.
When he’s not working, Dr. McCarrick is a self-professed fitness buff. He’s been working out with the same trainer for the past 12 years. He also enjoys ballroom dancing with his wife and spending time with family.
Dr. McCarrick is responsible for founding Care at Home New Jersey, a nonprofit organization that provides resources to support the homebound and their families and caregivers. To learn more about this organization, please visit the Connections at Home website.
“There is a trust factor when a patient knows you. That’s why building relationships is so important.”
Physician assistant Breanna Mesa loves to talk about healthy food choices and exercise. That’s because she knows the power of a healthy lifestyle. “When I was growing up, my grandmother had a lot of chronic conditions,” explained Breanna. “I would go with her to doctors’ appointments, and I learned that chronic diseases are caused in part by lifestyle choices. That inspired me to become a medical provider, to educate patients about preventive care and to help patients stay healthy and active.”
Breanna takes a three-step approach to disease prevention. The first step is educating patients about vaccines and screenings. The second step is ordering blood work or other tests when patients are showing symptoms, then suggesting lifestyle changes as needed. The third step would be to prescribe medication because a patient’s disease has progressed. The medication is in addition to the suggested lifestyle changes to help mitigate symptoms. “The more we can nip things in the bud before a patient gets sick, the better,” said Breanna.
Importantly, Breanna takes the time to ensure that her patients fully understand their health status. “If you talk to people in medical terms, sometimes they’ll nod and pretend to understand. Perhaps they think they’ll research their problem later on their computer. I make sure to explain things fully so that they leave knowing where things stand and what to do.”
She credits her countless volunteer experiences, including one at a mobile clinic in Peru, that helped to hone her communications skills. “You travel to underprivileged countries and visit villages where English is not the first language,” she said. “Yet you need to teach basic hygiene or give antibiotics to sick people. It was an amazing experience and one that helps remind me every day how fortunate we are to have access to good medical care in our country.”
When she’s not working, Breanna enjoys spending time with her Cavachon puppy named Ryleigh. She is an avid traveler and recently spent time in Spain, France, Greece and Italy.
“If you can’t talk to your doctor about something that is on your mind, there is a good possibility that something will be overlooked and missed.”
Dr. Michele Moscato wanted a career in the health care field from the time she was very young. “I can remember talking about being a doctor as a child,” says Dr. Moscato. “I had a strong interest in biological sciences and I had support, especially from one of my high school teachers who mentored and encouraged me to see my goal and go for it.”
Family medicine was the specialty area that was the draw for her, which can be partly attributed to a personal event. According to Dr. Moscato, “When a member of my family developed dementia, I saw firsthand the overwhelming challenges my family experienced trying to deal with the treatment and care of our loved one, which was new to all of us. We were initially lost in the woods.” She decided to take from that experience and put herself in a position armed with knowledge so she could offer her patients counsel and direction that would make their health care journey a little easier.
Dr. Moscato completed her residency at Hackensack University Medical Center-Mountainside (now Mountainside/UHMC Hospital) in family medicine. After her residency, she was asked to join the hospital as a faculty physician and assistant director in women’s health. “Women’s health was and remains an interest of mine, but I also like variety, and family medicine allows me to treat all ages and all genders,” she says. “At Vanguard Medical Group, I get the opportunity to do that every day.”
Vanguard is a patient-centered medical home where the patient comes first and the staff takes a team-based approach to provide quality health care. Dr. Moscato notes that one of the most important actions that she takes during every visit is to listen to, and talk with, her patients. Communication is crucial. “Taking that extra time to talk with my patients puts them at ease so they are more apt to open up and share their questions or concerns, and oftentimes the things discussed offer clues to their health,” she says.
In her spare time, Dr. Moscato enjoys traveling with her husband, especially locally to neighboring states. She is an animal lover and finds time to volunteer with animal adoption agencies.
“You’re not just looking at disease, but at family and social interactions and lifestyle. We ask the pivotal questions. Who’s cooking at home? How is the stress level? How much exercise are you getting? Do you have social relationships? All of these contribute to a patient’s well-being.”
When your mother is a registered nurse, you get an early glimpse into what it’s like to help others. That’s what happened with Dr. Sally Mravcak. “Growing up, we always had people in the neighborhood coming to the house, asking for my mom’s help or advice,” she says. “That was my inspiration for going into health care.
She chose family medicine because she enjoyed every rotation during medical training, from pediatrics to women’s health to geriatrics. “I didn’t want to give any of it up,” she says. “I like being able to treat an entire family, from the children to their parents, grandparents and great grandparents.”
Dr. Mravcak began her career working in a federally qualified health center, spending eight years caring for uninsured and underinsured people in New Jersey. “I like to advocate for my patients,” she says. “Every patient deserves excellent care offered with dignity and respect.” Prior to joining Vanguard, Dr. Mravcak also practiced full time in a women’s health center, providing comprehensive primary care, office gynecology and acupuncture. In addition to family medicine, she is board-certified in integrative medicine and medical acupuncture, and believes in evidence-based, whole-person care that takes into account the role of body, mind and science in creating wellness. She offers medical acupuncture in the Jersey City office of Vanguard. These treatments may be done alone or in concert with traditional medical practices to prevent and treat medical problems and promote emotional and physical wellness.
“Vanguard is always on the cutting edge of family medicine, as our name suggests,” notes Dr. Mravcak. “We’re pushing the ball forward in medicine, and in technology, as far as it can go. We’re also very open and accepting of patients of all backgrounds. We see patients of all ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations and gender identities, and they each feel comfortable here.”
When she’s not in the office in Jersey City, you might find Dr. Mravcak on a biking trail, taking in some live music or spending the day at the beach with her spouse and two daughters.
“We need to do as much as we can to maximize patients’ health before the point where medical interventions are needed.”
Sydney Pacelli was deciding between medical school and a career in research when she discovered the physician assistant profession. “I learned about physician assistants from a family friend, a physician,” she said, “and when I did some research, I found that it was exactly what I wanted.” She valued the opportunity to follow patients’ health long term and enact meaningful change. She especially liked the physician assistant’s role in a team-based approach to healthcare with the focus on the patient at its core.
Sydney chose Vanguard because of the practice’s focus on a medical home. “It’s so important to keep patient care within the community with providers who understand the role of access in delivering quality healthcare,” she said.
Primary care is all about preventive health, noted Sydney, and she strives to meet her patients where they are. “I know how difficult it can be to prioritize diet and exercise, and so we focus on making positive choices and taking small steps toward a larger goal.” Sydney’s patients like that she takes the time to really listen to their concerns and needs, and address them. “I want to build trust with my patients and develop those relationships over time with quality care and follow-up.”
When she’s not working, Sydney enjoys spending time with friends and family, including her three dogs, Tux, Bowtie and Blazer. She also is an outdoor enthusiast and enjoys a guilty pleasure—reality TV shows.
“I look at the whole person and not just the diagnosis in front of me.”
Rachael Romer grew up around medicine. As a child, she watched her grandmother go in and out of the hospital. She loved seeing how the providers made her grandmother feel and the relationships they formed with her. It was the inspiration for her career as a physician assistant in primary care.
She chose family medicine so she could treat a range of conditions and help patients over the long term. “Continuity of care is very important to me,” she said. “It’s not just one specific diagnosis but a chance to get to know your patients over time and help them stay healthy.”
Rachael’s patients say she is extremely outgoing and personable. She takes the time to get to know them. “If you get to know the person and not just the patient, you can better understand how to help them. You will understand their diets, their exercise routines, their stress levels, and the challenges they face in staying healthy.”
In addition to her role at Vanguard, Rachael is inspiring the next generation of physician assistants. She is an assistant professor of PA studies at her alma mater, Saint Elizabeth University.
When she’s not working, Rachael enjoys spending time with family and friends; playing tennis, softball, and golf; and walking her rescue dog, Emmett.
“The best way to care for a patient is to know the whole family.”
Sue Rose had decided on her future career by the age of 10. She enjoyed caring for others, and health care seemed a natural fit.
She began her career in a hospital pediatric unit. “I very much enjoyed pediatrics, but in a hospital setting there is no continuity,” she says. “You don’t get to see the patients after they’re released, or follow their progress.” Her transition to a doctor’s office provided the continuity that she was seeking. “As a nurse practitioner, my major focus is on wellness and keeping a patient healthy,” she says. “Moving to a medical practice setting allowed me to experience continuity as I began to increasingly treat multiple members of a family.”
Family history tells a health care provider a lot, but there is still more to the story, according to Sue. “As a health care provider, I am interested in both a personal history and a family history, but that’s just the beginning. There is a personal side – a relationship – that develops between the health care provider and the family, at which point you begin to understand their unique dynamic. I personally feel I can take care of individual members more completely when I know them on a number of levels.”
This is a two-way relationship for Sue. Her patients know that she is a mother, wife and daughter. “Just the fact that my patients know a little about me makes them feel comfortable talking with me about many things besides their health, such as social life, anxieties, school, time management, etc. I also try to talk to them at their level in terms they understand. When speaking with teens, I am pretty blunt about possible consequences of their actions – smoking, drugs, relationships, and unhealthy habits.” Sue also utilizes the resources of a clinical care coordinator to help her patients – from school-aged children to senior adults – who may need counseling, nutrition advice, home care or other social services.
As a family nurse practitioner, Sue provides her patients with all aspects of general and preventive care, including diagnoses, treatments, consultations, checkups, ordering lab tests and prescribing medication. She is also certified by the state of New Jersey to perform student-athlete cardiac assessments for pre-participation sports physicals.
During her off hours, Sue enjoys spending time with her husband, four children and three grandchildren. She also keeps busy assisting her aging parents and being involved in her church. She loves to create, and in her spare time she is a seamstress who unwinds at her sewing machine or by doing crochet projects.
“Every single feature of someone’s life plays into their health. Understanding that is the first step on the journey with patients toward better health.”
It wasn’t just an academic interest in the inner workings of the human body and mind that led Dr. Mandy Sacher to family medicine. It was her passion for connecting with people and harnessing that connection to help them achieve optimal health. “People come to their family doctor to address their physical health. But that interaction allows for explorations of the other aspects of their life that are likely affecting their current health and the attainment of improved health. I love having the opportunity to work with my patients in that process.”
Dr. Sacher enjoys the variety and challenge of family medicine. “In a given day, I can see all members of a multigenerational family, from newborn to geriatric; perform in-office procedures; and have a routine gynecologic visit — all while addressing physical, emotional and psychosocial issues.” Patients appreciate her easygoing manner, her openness to different perspectives and her straightforward way of explaining medical concepts.
When she’s not working, Dr. Sacher enjoys spending time in nature with her family, traveling, reading and trying her best to stay in the moment.
“Wherever the art of Medicine is loved, there is also a love of Humanity.” —Hippocrates
“Mental health plays an important role in physical health, and both have to work together for optimum health.”
With a background in psychology and expertise honed by years of working in trauma, emergency medicine and the ICU, Jessica Timmerman is well prepared for the breadth and depth of family medicine. “I get to do all the things I’m good at and feel a calling to do,” she said, “and at the same time form meaningful relationships with my patients as we work together toward better health.”
As a nurse practitioner, Jessica can diagnose illness, develop and manage treatment plans, and prescribe medications. She is wound care certified and has a special interest in mental health and addiction. With her appreciation for the sciences and the connection between physical and mental health, she treats the full range of ailments and conditions in a family practice setting.
“Patients like that I listen,” she said. “I’m very good at physical assessments. In my first six years in urgent care, we only had access to minimal diagnostics. I learned how to pay attention to every detail.”
Jessica follows the science but also values holistic care, counseling patients on lifestyle changes that support good health. She helps them take charge of their health through preventive care. Jessica advocates for her patients and connects them with community resources for additional support as needed, from fighting cancer to battling drug addiction. “There’s a great sense of community in our practice, built upon generations of families whom we have served,” she said.
When she’s not working, Jessica enjoys the great outdoors, fishing with her husband and son, and trail riding on four-wheelers. Having once considered a career as a veterinarian, Jessica is the proud owner of a rescue dog and two cats.
“Quality, cost-effective health care is a right, not a privilege.”
Whether he’s reassuring an anxious patient, offering clinical expertise on the latest treatment, or checking on a homebound senior, Dr. Joseph Schauer brings a warmth and compassion to primary care that come from over 35 years of learning and of advocating for his patients. He continues a legacy begun by his father and uncle, who paved the way for patient-centered care at the very same Farmingdale practice, once known as Schauer Family Medical Group.
Dr. Schauer’s own journey in medicine began in high school. He knew he wanted to help others, and he took a summer job as a hospital orderly, solidifying his career path. When it came time to choose a focus in medical school, he selected family medicine. “I liked the idea of taking care of generations of families,” he said, “and of treating the whole person—body, mind and soul. You can do that in primary care, whereas you cannot in subspecialties.”
He returned home to Monmouth County to practice family medicine with his father, Joseph Schauer Jr., MD and his uncle, Edward A. Schauer, MD. They have since retired, and Dr. Schauer remains at the helm, joining with like-minded independent physicians at Vanguard Medical Group.
“What distinguishes our practice is the personal touch, the willingness to sit down and explain things to our patients,” he said. “Our patients love that they can get that individualized attention along with high-tech diagnosis and treatment.”
Over the years, Dr. Schauer has received countless accolades from his patients. “The outcome is not always good, because people sometimes have diseases that unfortunately progress, but there is always an element of gratitude,” he noted. “We will receive notes from families saying thank you for taking care of Dad or Grandpa. Those are incredibly meaningful to us.”
Dr. Schauer’s influence reaches far beyond the Farmingdale location. He is a past president of the New Jersey Academy of Family Physicians. He chaired the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) Primary Care Initiative, working with a major New Jersey healthcare insurer to develop and implement primary care initiatives built around the PCMH concept in New Jersey.
When he’s not working, Dr. Schauer enjoys traveling with his wife, gardening, golfing and pursuing that ever-elusive hole-in-one.
“By counseling patients on good nutrition, healthy choices, and preventative care, we can help them live their best lives.”
Inspired by her patients and driven by her passion for helping others, Dr. Sheila Mellody brings a caring and compassionate approach to primary care at Vanguard Medical Group’s Farmingdale office. It’s a dream role for this family physician who values the relationships that she has made over the years.
“I chose family medicine for the one-on-one continuity of care,” she said. “Getting to know my patients, seeing their kids grow, and helping them on a journey toward good health is truly gratifying.”
Dr. Mellody began her career in Denver, Colorado, in a women’s health practice, and brings that experience and special interest to Vanguard. She also spent time working in primary care in Virginia Beach. She returned to her home state of New Jersey to be close to family.
Patients say they like Dr. Mellody’s ability to explain things clearly. “I’m very thorough and very organized,” she said. “I make sure that my patients fully understand any diagnoses or treatments so that we are able to work together toward optimum health.” She also emphasizes the importance of preventative care and healthy lifestyle choices. “Regular screenings, good nutrition, and healthy choices really do make a difference,” she said. “I often tell my patients that good nutrition is the backbone of any treatment.”
When she’s not working, Dr. Mellody enjoys running, camping, cooking, and spending time with her husband and children.
“I take an old-fashioned approach to clinical exams. We talk first in my office, and again afterward. It’s a more comfortable encounter and you learn so much more.”
From an early age, Peter Heit knew his future career. In fact, at his sixth-grade graduation, he wrote down that he was going to be a doctor. “Back then, there were not too many outlets for kids who liked the sciences,” he says. “It was research or medicine, and I knew that I wanted to take care of people.”
He received a full scholarship to attend Boston University and got accepted into medical school during his sophomore year. That allowed him to take graduate and undergraduate courses concurrently, and fit in some medical research. He ruled out the other specialties and chose gastroenterology/hepatology because the specialty featured interesting procedures and had the potential to build longstanding patient relationships.
The relationships are especially important to him. “Every visit starts with a conversation in my office,” he says. “I want to make it as comfortable as possible, to allay any concerns and to find out how I can help.” Then he examines the patient in the exam room. Finally, they meet back in the office to discuss the findings and put together a plan. “Sometimes, we focus on self-management; other times we recommend procedures or medication. Importantly, this is a plan that evolves over time as part of continuity of care.”
Preventive care, including colonoscopy screening, is a large part of his focus. “I help my patients get past the stigma and embarrassment of this test, and understand how powerful a colonoscopy is in helping them live longer, healthier lives.” In addition, Peter treats the full spectrum of gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, abdominal pains, reflux, Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis, and stress-related gastroenterological issues. “The enteric nervous system is second only to the brain in complexity,” he says, “and so there are quite a number of potential gastrointestinal issues.”
When he’s not working, he enjoys going to the theater with his wife. He also is a skilled clock maker and has made over 100 clocks.
“It’s the relationships that we form with our patients and the ability to help them live longer, healthier lives that motivate me every day.”
From a young age, Jessica Wolkun had thought about a career in healthcare. But it wasn’t until a trip to the emergency room that she found her true calling. “I took my friend to the ER, and that’s when I met a physician assistant for the first time,” she said. “I could clearly see myself in that role.”
Until then, she had been following a behavioral health track in college, with the goal of working with autistic children. She changed from psychology to biology, and soon found herself in the clinical setting. “The fit was perfect because I wanted to be part of a patient’s overall health rather than just the small part that is behavioral.”
Now she brings her hospital experience, including work in gastrointestinal disorders and infectious disease, to a primary care practice. She chose Vanguard because of its focus on wellness and its genuine care and concern for its patients. Being a physician assistant at Vanguard is everything she envisioned. “I love medicine, and I enjoyed working in a hospital, but now I have the opportunity to get to know my patients and follow their health for the long term.
“My patients like that I’m thorough and that I listen to them,” she said. “I help them stay on top of their health, and I sometimes gently push a little to ensure that they get the test that they need or make the lifestyle change that will make the difference.” Jessica notes that sometimes patients put off a necessary test because of fear. “We can address the fear and help patients feel more comfortable,” she said. “That’s much easier than addressing what could happen if the test is not done.”
Being able to follow her patients’ progress is a great reward of the job, according to Jessica. “If I can help them lose weight, lower their blood pressure, and get off medication, for example, then I’ve helped them toward a longer, healthier life.”
When she’s not working, Jessica enjoys gardening, decorating her home, and taking hikes and walks on the weekends.
“When you have a personal relationship with your patient, you are most able to give that patient effective preventive care.”
Dr. Sarah Wistreich was just 12 years old when she realized her life’s calling to become a doctor. She was inspired by the medical team that saved the life of her younger brother. “Watching the physicians who took care of him as a team really stood out to me,” she says. “It had a big impact on my personal decision.”
She chose family care so that she could treat the full range of ailments. She also enjoys a focus on women’s health. In both cases, Dr. Wistreich works to form meaningful relationships with her patients. “Continuity of care is so important,” she says. “When you know the person, you’re able to meet his or her needs more completely.”
Importantly, Dr. Wistreich asks the pivotal questions. “Are you up to date on your PAP smear? What are you using for birth control? Let’s talk about your weight. What’s going on at home? What is your stress level like?” She emphasizes preventive care, saying to patients, “Let’s talk about taking care of you when you’re well.” Patients enjoy the fact that Dr. Wistreich takes the time to actively listen and understand their concerns. Many women tell her that they enjoy seeing a female physician who can provide PAP smears, breast exams, birth control management, endometrial biopsies and other women’s health services.
Dr. Wistreich chose Vanguard because of its unique approach. “I like that Vanguard really puts the patient first,” she says. “It’s rare that you have a physician group that is owned by its own physicians and not a hospital or network. It’s still a business, but it’s one where the physicians care for the patients first and foremost.”
When she’s not working, Dr. Wistreich enjoys cooking nutritious meals. “Nutrition has become a passion of mine, not only with my patients, but with my family.”
“What motivates me is seeing my patients do really well when they take an active role in their own health care.”
With his appreciation for the sciences – biology, physiology and anatomy – and his nurturing nature, Igor Grosman seems tailor-made for the physician assistant role. It’s one that he has embraced wholeheartedly.
“I shadowed at a hospital, I volunteered in the emergency department, and I volunteered in a rehab center for seniors before I started my formal studies,” he said. “All of those experiences validated my desire to go into the medical field.” He pursued undergraduate work in biology as well as psychology because of the strong connection between the two. “I’m a really big proponent of physical health linked to mental health,” he said.
Igor joined Vanguard because it’s a practice known for collaboration among providers. “It’s essential to have that team environment to do the very best job for your patients,” he said. Igor strives to practice medicine and treat patients fairly and without discrimination regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion or beliefs.
Igor’s patients like that he’s a good listener and that he takes the time to educate them on their health. “It’s sometimes scary to deal with health concerns, and I try to create as comfortable an environment as possible,” he explained. “I work with patients to help them take a more proactive role in their own health. We focus on wellness and prevention. It’s a very personalized approach based on their lifestyle. A patient with a busy schedule and four children has different needs than a retired senior does, even if they present with similar health concerns. What I tell one patient might not work for another.”
He also taps into his background in clinical research. “It’s really important to understand the medications we take,” he said. “I’ve always been interested in clinical research, and I stay up to date with new medications and treatments.”
When he’s not working, Igor enjoys traveling and photography.
“I enjoy listening to my patients, and seeing how I can help them on a daily basis.”
Dr. Matthew Giangrante always loved science. That, and his passion for connecting with others, drove his decision to become a physician. He chose family medicine so that he had a chance to treat the full spectrum of patients and ailments.
He joined Vanguard Medical Group in 2013, a primary care practice that he says is “poised for growth without losing its focus on what’s important.” “We may be getting bigger, but quality patient care is still number one,” he says. “Patients may not even realize the depth and breadth of the practice because they still receive the kind of personalized attention that they did when we started.”
However, having access to an ever-increasing scope of services is important. Notes Dr. Giangrante, “We’re a very busy society, and when patients can get everything accomplished at one practice, from vaccines to phlebotomy, that makes it easier for them. Patients also have a level of trust when they’re getting these services done by their own doctor’s office.”
Dr. Giangrante practices the full scope of family medicine at Vanguard and has special interests in sports medicine and minor dermatologic procedures. He also has a focus on preventive care. “We handle everything from physicals to bloodwork, nutrition, weight loss strategies, vaccines for children and adults, and strategies for healthier lifestyles. When there are underlying medical issues, we help patients reduce their risk, using evidence-based research to support our recommendations.”
His easy-going, gentle nature and unique sense of humor help his patients, friends and colleagues feel comfortable around him. His patients frequently tell him that he is easy to talk to, addresses their concerns and makes them feel comfortable. Recently, Dr. Giangrante took home “New Jersey’s Favorite Kids’ Docs” honors, being listed in New Jersey Family magazine as one of the best in the business.
When he’s not working, Dr. Giangrante is an active volunteer and enjoys spending his free time with his wife and three children in his hometown of Union. He also enjoys golfing, boating and spending time at the Shore.
Dr. Debora Geller has managed the challenges patients face caused by environmental allergies, asthma, atopic dermatitis or eczema, hives and other skin allergies, food allergies, medication allergies and more. “Allergies can severely impact one’s ability to function” she said. “Yet there is a lot we can do to relieve those symptoms—and even prevent them in the future.” Trained in pediatric and adult allergy, asthma and immunology, Dr. Geller has helped countless patients with focused, personalized approaches to manage their allergy symptoms on a daily basis.
Helping others is a calling for Dr. Geller, and has been since she was very young. At just six years of age, she aspired to follow in the footsteps of her pediatrician, a woman who formed a strong connection with her. After medical school, she completed a residency in general pediatrics, then a fellowship in pediatric and adult allergy, asthma and immunology.
Dr. Geller traditionally sees patients who require more intensive allergy care than what is available over-the-counter or by their primary care physicians. “These may be patients with moderate or severe cases that need a higher level of treatment,” she said. “My goal is to keep them healthy and functioning.”
Dr. Geller chose to work at Vanguard for its preventative and collaborative care approach. She noted, “It makes for better patient care, when the medical team works together with a similar focus.” Dr. Geller’s caring and personalized medical approach has earned her such awards as NJ Monthly Top Doctor, Castle Connolly Top Doctor and the Top Doctor for Children.
When she’s not working, Dr. Geller enjoys traveling and learning about different cultures. She is an athlete and enjoys cycling and skiing. She stays active with her husband, also a physician, and three kids. She has a rescue Shih-Tzu named Sandy.
“If we give patients the tools and the power to be their own advocates, the results can be life-changing.”
Danielle Westenberger always knew she’d choose a career helping others. But it wasn’t until she worked alongside the nurses in a hospital emergency room that she realized her true calling. “They were the ones helping to make the critical decisions on the front line,” she said. “I saw the incredible impact that they could have, which is what inspired me to become a nurse practitioner. I wanted to be an advocate for my patients.”
“The best way to care for a patient is to know the whole family.”
Sue Rose had decided on her future career by the age of 10. She enjoyed caring for others, and health care seemed a natural fit.
She began her career in a hospital pediatric unit. “I very much enjoyed pediatrics, but in a hospital setting there is no continuity,” she says. “You don’t get to see the patients after they’re released, or follow their progress.” Her transition to a doctor’s office provided the continuity that she was seeking. “As a nurse practitioner, my major focus is on wellness and keeping a patient healthy,” she says. “Moving to a medical practice setting allowed me to experience continuity as I began to increasingly treat multiple members of a family.”
“I give my patients detailed options for their health, and then empower them to take the lead.”
As a family physician and an artist, Dr. Colleen Little brings more than the usual range of talent to primary care medicine. Initially on the track for a career in art therapy, Colleen was drawn to family medicine while working in healthcare administration. In taking care of credentialing for doctors, she realized that primary care was a path she’d like to follow. Now her years of art training bring a detailed eye to dermatology procedures, and her studies in psychology bring additional insight into her patients’ perspective.
“Evidence-based medicine – the conscientious use of clinical information to direct a plan of care – makes a difference in helping a patient achieve longevity and quality of life.”
When Dr. Peter Carrazzone injured his eye in the fifth grade, he discovered his future career. “I was hospitalized, and the doctor who treated me – the ophthalmologist – really inspired me. I knew then that I was going to be a doctor.” He chose family medicine because he enjoyed most every medical rotation. “Family medicine gave me the most robust ability to see everything.”
Christina Bottiglierie has the distinct memory of folding laundry with her father and telling him of her future career choice. “I want to go into medicine,” 5-year-old Christina said. But it wasn’t until college that she found the perfect fit, becoming a physician assistant.
Now she’s not only a seasoned physician assistant at Vanguard but also a role model for future PAs. Students from the Robert Wood Johnson Rutgers program in Piscataway and Kean University train under her as part of their course work. She also precepts “pre-PAs” – students in high school and college who are considering physician assistance as a future career.
Christina enjoys the variety in a family medicine practice, from pediatrics to women’s health to chronic care and more. She prides herself on being an advocate as well as an educator for her patients. “When I work with children who have special needs, I’ll counsel the parent on how to approach the school district, the questions to ask and what the school should provide,” she says. “When my patients are employees of the state or county, I educate them about the NJWELL program, where they can get money back for getting physicals. Certain insurances will give you free bike helmets for kids. I spend the time and talk to my patients, and make sure that they understand how they can play a role in their health.”
She’s also a certified Department of Transportation medical examiner, one of the few in New Jersey. This allows her to conduct the detailed physicals required for bus and truck drivers with commercial drivers’ licenses.
When she’s not working, Christina is involved in running groups and does Spartan races with her kids. “You have time for what you want to make time for,” she says. “That’s what I always tell my patients.”
From vegetarian cooking to practicing mindfulness, Dr. Manish Bhalodia tries lifestyle changes that he subsequently suggests to his patients. “I try it first, because if I can’t do it or it’s not effective, then it doesn’t make sense to tell my patients about it.”
It’s a hands-on approach that Dr. Bhalodia finds helpful in inspiring change. “Lifestyle goes hand in hand with cardiology,” he says. “Healthy habits can reduce the need for more invasive and/or expensive treatments.”
Dr. Bhalodia treats such issues as congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation, valvular heart disease, heart attack, coronary artery disease and syncope (fainting). Patients enjoy the comfortable atmosphere and the nonintimidating conversations he creates. He wants patients to be able to talk frankly about their concerns. “Sometimes that includes stresses in their lives that may be impacting their health,” he says.
He joined Vanguard to be part of a groundbreaking movement in value-based care. “I feel there is a lot to be gained by the synergy between a cardiologist and primary care physicians,” he notes. “Ultimately, it benefits the patient to have well-coordinated care.”
Helping others has been a focus of Dr. Bhalodia’s since he was in middle school, when he first envisioned his future career. The idea of alleviating human suffering was quite powerful to him, even at that young age. Due to his strong conviction about access to quality health care, he chose to forgo joining his father’s thriving accounting practice in favor of becoming a physician.
“During residency, cardiology was one of the toughest branches to understand and get selected for a fellowship,” he says. “To me, it was the most satisfying and gratifying feeling to be able to make a meaningful difference in a person’s quality of life. You can help save somebody from the brink of a catastrophic situation.”
When he is not working, Dr. Bhalodia enjoys reading, practicing yoga, and playing tennis, table tennis and cricket. He also enjoys traveling and exploring different cultures with his wife and twin sons.
Julie Becker’s desire to have a career in health care was influenced by her grandmother, who was a dentist as well as a mentor whom she shadowed while she was in college. “For me, I had positive role models who were in medical professions, and it was during high school that I decided to pursue a career in health care,” says Julie. “When I was in school, a physician assistant was a new medical career option, but I liked the idea that it would offer me the opportunity to examine, diagnose and treat patients under the guidance of a medical doctor.”
As a physician assistant, Julie is passionate about preventive and wellness care. “Prevention is the key to health care today,” she says. “During every visit, after reviewing my patients’ charts, I encourage and remind them to keep on top of immunizations, screenings and annual physicals, including PAPs, mammograms, colonoscopies and other screenings, so that a baseline can be recorded. If an abnormality is indicated, it can be caught and treated early.”
Julie speaks fluent Russian and Hebrew. According to her, “Once in a while, I have an opportunity to speak with patients in their native language. This came in handy for me with one of my patients who was a centenarian and was a little confused about diabetes. Being able to explain her condition in her native language put her at ease.”
As a physician assistant, Julie provides a variety of services to patients, including annual physicals, wellness checkups, diagnoses, medication management, blood pressure screenings, inoculations and vaccinations.
As the mother of four, Julie’s schedule is jam-packed keeping up with her children and their activities, but they also find time to enjoy Broadway shows and traveling.
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