Meet our current residents

PGY3

Oghuz Anwar, DO

New York Institute College of Osteopathic Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

With Kaiser Permanente being at the forefront of innovation and value based care, I believed that training in their unique integrated medical system would make me a well-rounded physician equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to be a leader in the rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

Tackling the unique complexities of each patient and truly connecting with them. I find joy in hearing their story and learning their cultural, spiritual, and socioeconomic background in an effort to truly treat them as a “whole" person.

Fun fact about you

One of my favorite things to do is play pickup basketball at the local park and get smoothies afterwards. This always leaves me feeling super refreshed.

How you thrive

Spending time with family and friends, re-centering myself through my faith, and exercising to keep my body healthy.
Learn more about me

Theresa Chiappe, DO

A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine

Learn more about me

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

Kaiser Permanente supports patients in every aspect of care and helps simplify a fairly complex medical system so patients can meet their health goals. Kaiser Permanente is also fantastic at connecting patients with preventative medicine techniques to avoid the occurrence of disease. I am also excited to be in an area where I can have family support as I grow as a physician.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

Information has always felt empowering to me, and I love that as a physician, a large part of my job is sharing information so that patients can make informed decisions about their health care.

Fun fact about you

During college, I worked in the theater’s scene shop building sets, including a revolving stage.

How you thrive

I thrive when I can share a home-cooked meal with my family and friends.

Robert Liu, MD

University of Maryland School of Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

KPMAS is a reputable, supportive program with a strong dedication towards education, and I wanted to train in such an environment where I could also work with and take care of the community that I grew up in.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

Being able to provide solutions to patients’ medical issues as well as offering them new opportunities.

Fun fact about you

I enjoy spending time with family and friends, sports/athletics, reading, and learning. I’m always excited about learning new topics!

How you thrive

I thrive when I can share a home-cooked meal with my family and friends.
Learn more about me

Shannon Menezes, MD

George Washington University School of Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I applied to KPMAS because I have had wonderful experiences with the organization. Growing up in the DMV area, Kaiser Permanente was my health care provider for many years and during medical school, I had the opportunity to rotate within the system as part of my clerkships. The faculty, staff, and IM program were so supportive and created such a positive learning environment. I really value their teaching and holistic medical model because it works to train competent and cost-efficient physicians who prioritize patient centered and high-quality health care.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

There are so many aspects to medicine that make the field exciting. I appreciate the opportunity to learn, support, and care for people during hard and challenging times in their lives. Listening to someone’s story, being present for them, and working together to create a life-changing plan is rewarding and impactful. Moreover, when you care for someone, you are addressing not just their physical condition, but also their mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and financial needs. There are gaps and social determinants that need to be considered; however, I enjoy working with other passionate individuals in a team to mediate through these barriers to positively impact someone’s health.

Fun fact about you

I played soccer competitively for 12 years and was even on the number one girls’ team in Virginia at one point. Now, I play for fun and exercise!

How you thrive

I love spending time with my family and friends, exercising, and going on adventures to local restaurants or events. I am also an aunt to a little boy and 2 adorable dogs so their pictures and cuteness often helps me to de-stress after a long day.
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Harsitha Sakhamuri, MD

University of Queensland – Ochsner Health

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I liked that Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States provides an equal balance between inpatient and outpatient care while encompassing a diverse patient population.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

Health literacy is one of my biggest passions in medicine as I firmly believe that a good health education leads to better health outcomes.

Fun fact about you

I can understand four languages.

How you thrive

Cooking, watching films, hiking.
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Arianna Vessal, DO

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Virginia

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I chose to apply to KPMAS because of their commitment to supporting their community and dedication to individualized physician training. I enjoy being at a program with a small feel but large program resources. What really set them apart for me were that everyone likes to be here!

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

I enjoy getting to know patients on a personal level and collaborate with them on their journey to health and wellness. Fostering relationships to have better patient outcomes is truly an extraordinary experience.

Fun fact about you

My favorite hobby is trying new hobbies. I love learning new skills or having new experiences!

How you thrive

I always feel rejuvenated when I am outside in nature. You can frequently find me taking a quick walk or sitting outside enjoying the landscape.
Learn more about me

PGY2

Abraham Alex, DO

New York Institute College of Osteopathic Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I applied to KPMAS because of the opportunity to become a competent and well-rounded physician, through rigorous academics and supportive physicians.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

My passion stems from the opportunity to utilize my academic and clinical knowledge and skills to further the well-being of my patients.

Fun fact about you

One of my hobbies is reading fiction novels. I can travel anywhere from the comfort of my home.

How you thrive

I thrive when I am taking a scenic walk throughout my neighborhood.
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Tarah Burton, MD

George Washington University School of Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I genuinely wanted to become a part of an organization that is innovative and dedicated to improving health care for all members of the community.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

Every day I get to collaborate with patients on meeting their health goals keeps me passionate about medicine.

Fun fact about you

Even though I grew up on an island, I did not learn how to swim until college. Go Terps!

How you thrive

Keeping organized, collaborating with peers and being open to new ideas allows me to thrive.
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Navid Chowdhury, MD

University of Maryland School of Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

KPMAS is a system that provides patients with a simplified, digestible pathway through a potentially complicated medical environment, which is what I wish to provide to patients.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

Connecting with patients and addressing their concerns in a thorough and understanding manner.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

Being able to provide solutions to patients’ medical issues as well as offering them new opportunities.

Fun fact about you

I am an avid board game player and collector – a great way to have fun with friends and family.

How you thrive

Spending time with loved ones, eating good food, and reading.
Learn more about me

Ashly Kaur, DO

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Virginia

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I chose to apply to Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States because it allows me to serve the community I grew up in; while still emphasizing the values I would want from my own physician. As a former patient of the Kaiser Medical Group, I experienced firsthand the high-quality, compassionate care that inspired me to become a physician. I am excited to now have the opportunity to give back and provide the same level of care to my patients.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

What makes me passionate about practicing medicine is the ability to build meaningful relationships and positively impact patients' lives through compassionate care.

Fun fact about you

I'm a self-proclaimed interior design enthusiast; my mind is always buzzing with ideas on how to jazz up spaces and remix furniture layouts for better vibes and functionality. Plus, it gives me the perfect excuse to indulge my love for shopping!

How you thrive

I consider myself fortunate to have grown up in this area, surrounded by my supportive husband, wonderful friends, and loving family who contribute to my growth and happiness. Nothing brings me more joy than spending quality time with them in the place I call home.
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Rohan Kuruvilla, MD, ScM

Howard University College of Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I applied to Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States for my residency training because of their emphasis on outpatient medicine, the program is in my home state of Maryland, and trainees have a lot of involvement with national medical conferences and the American College of Physicians.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

I am passionate about medicine due to the relationships I build with my patients and colleagues. I wouldn’t do it if it weren’t for the patients.

Fun fact about you

I used to own pet crabs from Southeast Asia!

How you thrive

My wife is my biggest supporter, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without her unwavering support. I also stand true to my values, always emphasize work-life balance, and build connections and communities anywhere I go.
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Moiz Shah, MBChB

University of Glasgow School of Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I chose to apply to KPMAS because of its forward-thinking ethos. Not only do they produce high-quality physicians, but they also aim to address some of the health care challenges faced by its served population.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

The ability to use my passion to positively impact a person’s life gives me great satisfaction!

Fun fact about you

I am currently on a mission to see every national park in the US!

How you thrive

I make sure that I get my exercise in, no matter how busy or occupied!
Learn more about me

PGY1

Mary Anand, MD

Eastern Virginia Medical School

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I wanted to train in this residency program because of its emphasis on lifestyle medicine, preventative care, quality, and safety, which align with my vision of the attending physician whom I want to become.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

It gives me joy to engage with patients through motivational interviewing and help empower them to actively care for themselves. I especially value the doctor-patient relationship and the trust that patients place in me.

Fun fact about you

I enjoy arranging fresh cut flowers. I even did the flowers at my friend’s wedding!

How you thrive

Watching classic movies with my octogenarian grandparents, baking new creations, and praying in nature are some of the ways I thrive.
Learn more about me

Mubazar Ishfaq, DO

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I chose to apply to Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States because of its strong commitment to integrated, patient-centered care and its innovative approach to improving health outcomes through a collaborative team model. The emphasis on preventive medicine and addressing social determinants of health aligns closely with my passion for serving diverse communities. I believe training in such an environment will help me become a well-rounded physician — equipped with the skills, knowledge, and compassion needed to provide comprehensive care. Additionally, the program’s supportive learning environment and focus on resident wellness make it an ideal place for me to grow both personally and professionally.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

Medicine blends my love for lifelong learning with my desire to serve others. I’m inspired by the opportunity to understand the unique complexities of each patient — medically, culturally, and spiritually — and to use that knowledge to make a positive and meaningful impact in their lives!

Fun fact about you

I worked as a chauffeur throughout college and med school!

How you thrive

I love hanging out with family and friends, getting outside whether it’s playing basketball or going for a hike, and of course, eating! Trying new restaurants and cooking up new recipes is something I’m always down for.
Learn more about me

Noorvir Kaur, MD

Drexel University College of Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I applied to KPMAS because of the close-knit community it fosters with fellow colleagues and patients. Their patient-driven model helps create efficient and longitudinal relationships and better long-term outcomes. With the program’s emphasis, I can continue to solidify my interests in lifestyle medicine and community-based medicine which were initially shaped in medical school. The physicians I met within the program are also very compassionate and knowledgeable and as a learner, I greatly appreciated this aspect.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

The ability to use our knowledge and empathy as physicians to better the lives of patients at their most vulnerable times.

Fun fact about you

I grew up in Gaithersburg, Maryland, so I’m ecstatic to be training in my hometown. I also love traveling and have been to 16 different countries and plan to grow this number.

How you thrive

Spending time with family and friends, going on nature walks, and trying new coffee shops in the area.
Learn more about me

Rebecca Lees, MD

Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

Kaiser Permanente has an excellent reputation and I was excited when I learned there was a branch in the DMV area.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

Kaiser Permanente has an excellent reputation and I was excited when I learned there was a branch in the DMV area.

Fun fact about you

I speak Mandarin, and I have been to India/Sri Lanka.

How you thrive

I love seeing what nature has to offer and I thrive on new experiences.
Learn more about me

Adan Naseer, MD, MSc

Eastern Virginia Medical School

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I was drawn to KPMAS for its commitment to a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. The residency program’s emphasis on balancing inpatient and outpatient experiences fosters a well-rounded understanding of internal medicine. Additionally, the opportunity to train within an integrated system like Kaiser Permanente, renowned for its innovative use of technology and collaborative care model, was especially compelling. The supportive learning environment and the chance to care for a diverse patient population in a dynamic metropolitan area further solidified my decision.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

It allows me to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Listening to patients’ stories, understanding their unique circumstances, and collaborating to create personalized care plans is deeply fulfilling.

Fun fact about you

In my free time, I enjoy solving puzzles and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.

How you thrive

I thrive on spending quality time with family, enjoying outings with friends, and enjoying peaceful walks to unwind.
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Sudaba Rahimi, DO

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Carolinas

Why you chose to apply to KPMAS?

I chose KPMAS because it has strong aspects that greatly align with my professional aspirations, such as patient-centered care using the integrated care model that emphasizes a team-based approach, coordination across various specialties, and preventative care. My family has long-term Kaiser Permanente patients and they've always shared with me how satisfied they are with the quality of care they receive. Becoming part of the same compassionate and efficient team has always been my dream.

What makes you passionate about practicing medicine

Medicine is a field where one will always be a student and a teacher. I find myself eagerly reading about the diseases I encounter throughout my day and recognize the depth and diversity of the field. Medicine offers the opportunity to learn something new each day, whether the conditions are acute or chronic, common or rare. I enjoy interacting with diverse patients and learning from them. Listening to patients and seeing improvement in their health is a rewarding experience that motivates me to continue being curious, a learner, and an advocate for my patients’ health.

Fun fact about you

I enjoy filming study videos and book reviews, which I share online for a little sprinkle of motivation to others. I feel that I’ve lived a thousand lives from reading books.

How you thrive

I thrive by reading books, visiting a café, shopping, and walking outdoors in nature with my parents.
Learn more about me