Abrazo Family Medicine Residency

• Unparalleled training
• Strong procedural skills
• Excellence in quality improvement
• Foundation in evidence based medicine
• Grassroots innovation

Our residency program offers full-spectrum family medicine training. 
We believe that the family physician is the foundation of any healthcare system. 
We provide increased access to high-quality healthcare for our surrounding Phoenix neighborhoods and communities.
We value collaboration, integrity, accountability, respect, humility, and compassionate service.

Abrazo Family Medicine Residency Program:

• Is affiliated with the University of Arizona College of Medicine and Midwestern University allowing us to provide research opportunities and advanced technologies for our residents
• Has been educating family physicians since 1978 (formerly as Phoenix Baptist Family Medicine Residency Program)
• Exposes residents to all areas of medicine, including practice management education with a focus on billing
  
• Provides quality patient-centered, evidence-based care
• Affords opportunities for community outreach
• Allows residents to serve as active members of hospital committees

We offer:

• Academics & research
• Obstetrics
• Hands-on procedural training
• Healthcare disparities education
• Balint group
• Behavioral medicine training
• Sports medicine
• Geriatrics
• Practice management
• Rural exposure
• Underserved urban and rural training
• OMT training
• Wellness curriculum
• SIM Lab
• Scholarly Activity

Unique qualities about training at Abrazo Family Medicine Residency Program: 

• Family Medicine training at Abrazo Central Campus
• External rotations at nearby tertiary care hospitals (Phoenix Children’s Hospital, St Josephs’/Dignity Healthcare Hospital)
• Opportunities for Specialty Track training in: Hospitalist Medicine, Maternal Child Health and Sports Medicine training
• Protected time for didactic conferences
• Integrative Medicine curriculum through the University of Arizona*
• Ample elective time across PGY2 and PGY3 years, including options for local and regional rotations
• Training for residents who plan to work with accountable care organizations
• Service to a  diverse patient population with regards to education, ethnicity/culture  and socio-economic status
• Procedural training in outpatient, inpatient, obstetric, and emergency medicine
• Sports medicine opportunities including physicals and healthcare for high school and professional athletes with community  physicians 
• Electronic medical records in the clinic and hospital (Epic and Cerner, respectively)
• Free online access to library services and medical reference subscriptions
• Monetary allowance toward medical education conferences, laptops and book purchases.
• Allowance for presenting research and/or representing Abrazo Family Medicine Residency Program at national conferences.

* In conjunction with the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine (AWCIM), our residency offers the Integrative Medicine in Residency (IMR) program, which provides a dynamic, self-paced online Integrative Medicine curriculum specifically designed for medical residents. This 100-hour competency-based CORE program aligns with ACGME guidelines and equips physicians to better address the growing prevalence of chronic illnesses and stress-related disorders. Upon completion, residents receive a Certificate of Completion and gain access to over 85 additional hours of advanced, condition-specific content. The program provides 24-hour access and blends online learning with experiential activities, ensuring flexibility for busy schedules. It also includes a Healthcare Professional Wellbeing Course and incorporates evaluation tools to monitor progress and assess knowledge acquisition.

With easy access to both the outdoors and metropolitan areas, Arizona is one of the best places to live in the U.S. Check out the links below to learn about the growing city of Phoenix and the beautiful state of Arizona.

General Guides to Arizona and Phoenix

• Visit Arizona 
• Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau

Special Attractions

• Arizona Science Center 
• Desert Botanical Garden
• The Heard Museum
• The Phoenix Symphony
• Phoenix Zoo

Our Sports Teams

• Arizona Cardinals
• Arizona Diamondbacks - Major League Baseball
• Cactus League - MLB Spring Training
• Arizona Rattlers - Arena Football
• Phoenix Suns - NBA Basketball  

Want more health and lifestyle tips from Abrazo Health? Follow us on social media

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Residents in the Abrazo Family Medicine Residency Program are exposed to a diverse population because they perform rotations at several surrounding urban and inner city tertiary care hospitals.

Abrazo Central Campus

An innovative acute-care hospital located in North Central Phoenix, Abrazo Central Campus offers a wide variety of advanced medical services to its patients. We have been an active partner in the growth and development of the communities we serve since 1963.

Today, Abrazo Central Campus is a 216-bed, non-denominational teaching hospital and part of the second largest health system in Arizona. The staff and more than 750 physicians are dedicated to providing innovative, cost-effective, and convenient healthcare services in an environment focused on personal care, compassion and respect.

Learn more about Abrazo Central Campus.

Residency Department
602-246-5521

Chelsea Kempton
Program Coordinator
602-246-5638
[email protected]

Abrazo Health Network Family Medicine Residency Program
2000 West Bethany Home Road
Phoenix, Arizona 85015

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Abrazo Family Medicine Residency Program offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package for Family Medicine residents.

Salary

Resident Employment Agreement

Benefits

• Medical and Dental Insurance
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Employee Retirement Plan
• Two white lab coats furnished by the hospital
• Meals provided when on duty at Abrazo Central Campus
• Stipend for meals while on duty at local hospital rotations
• Call rooms with computer access

Vacation and leave

Three weeks vacation per year (21 working days)

Books, conferences & other education

First year: $600 allowance
Second year: $800 allowance and 5 CME days
Third year: $1000 allowance and 5 CME days

Allowance can be used for related expenses including, without limitation: laptops, electronic tablets,website subscriptions, books/ebooks, conferences and other self-education

Up to a $1600 financial incentive to residents on track to take and pass the ABFM Certification exam in their PGY-3 year

Full access to Midwestern University Library to include apps like Up-To-Date, Dynamed, Sanford guide, Audio-Digest etc.

Certifications

The Abrazo Family Medicine Residency Program covers the cost of the following training courses:

• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
• Fetal Strip Review
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
• Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO)

Membership in AAFP & AzAFP

The Program encourages participation in the following professional societies and pays for the resident's membership in:

American Osteopathic Association (AOA)
American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP)
American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP)
Arizona Academy of Family Physicians (AzAFP)

Scholarly Activity

Abrazo Family Medicine Residency Program supports the following:

• Participation in ongoing clinical research, poster presentations, didactic lectures, journal review and publications.
• Presentation at statewide Academic Excellence Day
• Presentation at national conferences including the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) conference

Amanda Rapp, MD, MBA, FAAFP

Linda Brown, MD

Jennifer Willis, MD

David Virgil, MD, FAAFP

Linda Brown, MD

Undergraduate School: Montclair State College 
Medical School: University Medicine and Dentistry - New Jersey Medical School
Residency: Phoenix Baptist Family Medicine Residency Program 
Clinical Interests: Female preventative care and pediatrics.

Born and raised in New Jersey, I am a proud graduate of the University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey. In 1992 I completed my family practice residency at Phoenix Baptist Hospital in Phoenix and subsequently left Arizona to take a position in upstate New York.

After three years on the east coast, I knew it was time to return to Phoenix. I started working as a physician for Abrazo Medical Group in 1995 at the West Olive Family Medicine Center in Glendale. I have now been working at that practice for 18 years and am grateful to have had continued interaction with the Phoenix Baptist Family Medicine Residency. I have acted both as a community preceptor on a regular basis at their inpatient clinic, and I have served as the REAC community chairperson.

In my free time, I enjoy hiking, golfing and spending time outdoors.

Jennifer Willis, MD

Undergraduate: Masters in Physiology University of Arizona
Medical School: University of Arizona
Clinic Interest: Sports Medicine, Women's Health, Urgent Care

I received my medical education from the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Tucson, Arizona. I completed my residency at the Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Phoenix. I am board-certified in family medicine and I focus on patient education and wellness which allows me to provide the best care possible for patients of all ages.

I believe in a personal approach to medicine and work in partnership with each patient to build a lasting relationship and create a personalize care plan with an emphasis on prevention and wellness

David Virgil, MD, FAAFP

Undergraduate Education: B.S.E. in Biomedical Engineering from Arizona State University
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Residency: Phoenix Baptist FMRP, Phoenix Arizona
Clinical Interests: Integrative Medicine, Public Policy, Underserved Populations, Preventative Medicine, Women’s Health, Sport’s Medicine

Dr. Virgil was born and raised in Tolleson, AZ, a small city outside of Phoenix. He attended Arizona State University and earned his B.S.E. in Biomedical Engineering. After graduating he went to work for Maricopa County as a Public Health Inspector and Spanish Liaison whilst earning his Master’s in Business Administration before deciding to enter medical school. During his undergraduate career he volunteered as a Spanish Interpreter at the Wesley Community Center, a local health center that serves the underserved, undocumented, and indigent populations of downtown Phoenix. It was here that he first fell in love with community medicine, and being around so many compassionate and caring health care providers set the foundation for his choice to be a Family Medicine Physician. Outside of medicine Dr. Virgil enjoys Latin/Ballroom dancing, reading poetry and works of fiction, traveling, shamatha meditation, and listening to live music. Go Devils!

Ashley Thatcher, DO	Jennifer Lee, DO	Edgar Pastora, MD	Sindhu Rajan, DO
Shivam Bhanvadia, MD	Austin Smith, DO	Shannon Yee, DO

Ashley Thatcher, DO

Undergraduate: University of San Diego
Medical School: Midwestern University- Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
Clinical Interest: Full-spectrum medicine, Sports medicine, preventative medicine, Women’s health

I was born in Calgary, Canada and was then raised by my mother in the San Francisco Bay Area. Growing up in beautiful, Northern California, I spent most of my childhood outdoors playing sports. I studied Biology at the University of San Diego, where I was also able to play on the NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer team for four years. After moving to Phoenix soon afterwards to earn my Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences, I quickly fell in love with the Arizona desert with its vivid sunsets, amazing hiking, and numerous Mexican food restaurants! During medical school at Midwestern University, my passion for Family Medicine developed during my experiences through clinical rotations as I realized that comprehensive medicine and continuity of patient care of are the utmost importance in my practice.

My mission is to be of service to others and to embody true kindheartedness while improving the health and well-being of those in my community.

When I am not in the hospital or clinic, you can find me cooking, spending time with family and friends, swimming, playing soccer, hiking, and watching Harry Potter. I am thrilled to be able to join the Abrazo team and serve the surrounding Phoenix community!

Jennifer Lee, DO

Undergraduate: University of Arizona
Graduate School: Midwestern University
Medical School: Midwestern University – Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
Clinical Interest: Preventative Medicine, Full-Spectrum Family Medicine, Underserved Populations, Women’s Health, Sports Medicine

I am an Arizona native and was born in Scottsdale, AZ. I earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Arizona and a Master of Biomedical Sciences Degree from Midwestern University. During medical school, I was President of an organization that provided a weekly, free healthcare clinic at a local homeless shelter in Phoenix. The experience cultivated my passion for working with underserved populations and providing care to patients from diverse communities. I am excited to join the Abrazo Family Medicine team and look forward to serving the same community that has given me so much over the years!

My hobbies outside of medicine include hiking, camping, and fishing. I enjoy spending time outdoors with my friends, family, and my dog, Riley. I am a sports fanatic and, having family from Wisconsin, a committed Green Bay Packers fan. Go Pack Go!

Edgar Pastora, MD

Undergraduate: University of California at Riverside
Medical School: University of Guadalajara, Mexico
Clinical Interest: Sports Medicine, Mental Health, Women’s Health and Preventative Medicine

Hi! I am a Southern California transplant from Santa Ana, CA who now resides in Phoenix, AZ.

Growing up, I witnessed healthcare disparities within my community, which led to my pursuit in medicine. My time in medical school allowed me to live in the vibrant and beautiful city of Guadalajara, Mexico for two years. Afterward, I completed my clinical rotations in Phoenix.

I participated in brigades in Mexico providing care in heavily underserved communities where healthcare is scarce. Once in Phoenix, I volunteered at the Wesley Clinic providing diabetic retinopathy screenings. Now that I am at Abrazo, I look forward to honing in on my skills and providing quality care for my patients.

In my free time, I like to hike, run, cook, play guitar and spend time with my family and friends. I’m also a big dog-lover and as of last year, a big cat-lover which is when I adopted my playful cat, June.

Sindhu Rajan, DO

Undergraduate: Arizona State University
Medical School: ATSU - Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
Clinical Interest: Preventive Medicine, Underserved Populations, Integrative Medicine, & Practice Management

I was born in India but have spent the majority of my life right here in Phoenix. I am beyond excited to be part of the team at Abrazo to serve the community that I am deeply connected to. In the past, I have been involved in projects across Arizona such as campaigns to eliminate the stigma against HIV/AIDS and summer camps for children with cancer or in remission in which I have taught Bharatanatyam and Bollywood, two distinct forms of Indian dance. It is my aim for every individual no matter who they are or what their background is to feel heard and understood. Outside of medicine, I enjoy dancing and exploring Google Maps to find new restaurants or activities that may be worth trying. I also enjoy traveling to other cities and countries to appreciate different cultures and ways of life.

Shivam Bhanvadia, MD

Undergraduate: Saint Louis University
Medical School: Saint Louis University, School of Medicine
Clinical Interest: Academic Medicine, Sleep Medicine

I grew up primarily in the sunny state of Arizona for much of my life and left to Saint Louis for my medical education. Having many interests and careers during my life, I quickly found that my true passion and home was in the field of medicine. I am excited to be coming back to my hometown of Phoenix, AZ to take care of the community that did the same for me. I want to take care of people on a personal level so that everyone can be set-up for success. Quality care is a key step in helping patients overcome any hurdles they may face. I am fluent in Gujarati and am working to pick up more languages. During my time-off, I love to spend quality family/friends time, play pickleball/tennis, hike, and build.

Austin Smith, DO

Undergraduate: Arizona State University
Medical School: St. George’s University
Clinical Interest: Full-spectrum Family Medicine, Preventative Medicine, Community Medicine, Behavioral Health, Health Literacy, Healthcare Administration and Policy

As an Arizona native, I spent most of my life growing up in the West Valley before moving to Tempe to attend Arizona State University. While there, I earned my Bachelor’s in Biology, Psychology, Global Health, and Family and Human Development. I continued my education at ASU and earned my Master’s in Science of Healthcare Delivery. Throughout undergrad and grad school, I gained clinical laboratory experience while working as a phlebotomist and medical laboratory technician. I then went on to medical school at St. George's University and completed my clinical training in both London and Chicago.

What fuels my ambition for providing high quality, patient-centered care is the opportunity to connect with people on a level that goes beyond superficial. I believe that by building strong relationships with my patients, I can better understand their unique needs and help them to achieve their health goals. I am excited to bring my passion for patient care and community service to the residency program at Abrazo and look forward to making a positive impact on the community I grew up in.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy traveling to new countries, trying unique foods, and spending time outdoors with my English Bulldogs.

Shannon Yee, DO

Undergraduate: University of California, Irvine
Medical School: A.T. Still University – School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona
Clinical Interest: : Full-Spectrum Family Medicine, Hospitalist, Women’s health, Preventive Medicine

I was born and raised in southern California in a city that produced the Ball brothers. Growing up I found a passion for science and animals. I grew up wanting to be a vet but discovered aspects of the profession that I knew that I could not participate in so had to pivot. For undergrad, I attended the University of California Irvine, where I double majored in Biochemistry and Molecular biology, and Political science. During my time in undergrad I explored multiple avenues of the sciences including research and medicine. While working with the underserved population in the OC with medical organizations like SHIFA, I developed a passion for medicine and working with underserved populations. After graduation I continued to explore my interest in medicine by working as a medical assistant in a dermatology office and as a scribe in the Emergency department. After determining that I wanted to pursue a career in medicine, I applied for medical school where I was accepted at A.T. Still University in Mesa Arizona. During my rotations, I realized that I enjoyed aspects of various specialties and found that Family Medicine was a perfect amalgamation.

In my free time, I enjoy playing overcooked with friends, hiking, playing board games, and discovering new restaurants. With any other leftover time, you'll find me hanging out with my (many) pets including a turtle, dog, and guinea pigs.

Alexandra Bartlett, DO	Angela Vaivao, MD	Sonali Karandikar, DO	Sarah Carpinelli, DO
My-Loan Luu, DO	Sophia Fasani, DO	Farah Alamiree, MD

Alexandra Bartlett, DO

Undergraduate: University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Graduate: Touro University Nevada, College of Osteopathic Medicine

Medical School: Touro University Nevada, College of Osteopathic Medicine

Clinical interests: Preventative medicine, Regenerative medicine, Procedural skills, Pain medicine, Sports medicine, Lifestyle medicine, Health Literacy, Behavioral Health, Practice Management

As a long-time Las Vegas resident, I am excited to return to the state where I was born and give back to a community called home by several generations of family. Nevada provided me the opportunity to earn dual Bachelor’s degrees in Biology and Psychology, with a minor in Neuroscience, at UNLV. Upon completing a Master’s of Health Sciences degree at TUN, I continued on to attend medical school with TUNCOM, where I gained further appreciation for the complexities of dynamic, individualized patient care.

On a clinical level, I believe in working with patients to understand their desired outcomes and get them back to doing what they enjoy. I adopt a proactive mindset and make a genuine interpersonal investment, which is essential to patient advocacy. This mindset also fosters adaptability and active problem-solving, leading to the best opportunity for shared and informed decision-making. Being a part of the Abrazo Health team allows me to prioritize this approach while making patients feel educated about their options, supported in their decisions, and confident in their future plans.

Outside medicine, I have yet to find an outdoor activity I do not like; however, I have a particular affinity for UTV trail riding, hiking, and camping with my husband. Much of my time is also spent with my husband experiencing top foodie destinations, attending hockey games, exploring during world travel adventures, and trying my hand at mixology.

Angela Vaivao, MD

Undergraduate: University of San Diego

Medical School: University of Guadalajara, Mexico

Clinical Interest: Sports Medicine, Preventative Medicine, Dermatology, Full-Spectrum Family Medicine

I was born and raised in the beautiful San Diego, California. I spent most of my childhood in Sothern California playing sports and enjoying the sunny skies year-round. I studied Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of San Diego, where I was also able to intern for the division 1 football team as an athletic training and sports medicine student. I moved to Phoenix during my third year of medical school and completed all of my clinical clerkships here in the valley. It was hard not to fall in love with the scenic views and beautiful spring time weather. My passion for Family Medicine deepened during my time in Phoenix as I had the opportunity to see the vast opportunities that existed within the specialty and the amount of lives that could be reached and changed.

During my free time I love to garden and cook. I am passionate about baking and cooking with real, local, and vibrant ingredients. I am joyful about the opportunity to join Abrazo and to reach and serve the community around us.

Sonali Karandikar, DO

Undergraduate: University of Arizona

Medical School: Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine

Clinical Interests: Full spectrum Family Medicine, Preventative Medicine, Women’s Health, Adolescent Medicine

I am from Phoenix, Arizona and attended University of Arizona for a Bachelor’s degree in Physiology and Psychology. After completing the Biomedical Sciences Master’s program at Midwestern University, I attended medical school locally at Midwestern University as well. I was drawn to Family Medicine as soon as I started clinical rotations because of the variety of pathologies and procedures I encountered every day. I hope to provide continuity of care by practicing both inpatient and outpatient medicine, ensuring comprehensive care for my future patients. Within Family Medicine, my further interests include women’s health, preventative medicine, and adolescent medicine. Currently, I am committed to furthering my proficiency in medical Spanish and participating in community service initiatives to contribute to the well-being of the community I serve. I am excited to continue my medical journey with Abrazo Family Medicine’s supportive and compassionate team!

Outside of medicine, I enjoy trying out new coffee shops and restaurants, reading, exploring new trails both in the Valley and northern Arizona, and spending time with my dog!

Sarah Carpinelli, DO

Undergraduate: Northeastern University

Medical School: Midwestern University – Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine

Clinical Interests: Women’s Health, Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy, Full-Spectrum Family Medicine, Health Literacy, Patient Advocacy and Medical Policy.

Originally from San Diego, California, I relocated to Phoenix for medical school at Midwestern University. Enamored by the area’s picturesque sunsets, diverse cultures, and nearly perfect weather, I extended my medical education by a year for a pre-doctoral fellowship. This allowed be to earn an Applied Master’s in Osteopathic Medical Education, nurturing my passion for teaching and honing my skills in Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy. My dedication to women’s healthcare and holistic medicine, emphasizing both symptom treatment and addressing underlying causes, has long been a driving force. I prioritize building relationships with patients, fostering understanding of their health, and collaborating to achieve their wellness goals.

Beyond medicine, I enjoy Pilates, outdoor activities, and exploring new dining spots with my husband. Traveling is a cherished pastime, although evenings are often spent at home cuddling with our cats, Leela and Messi. 

My-Loan Luu, DO

Undergraduate school: The University of Texas at San Antonio

Medical School: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine - Midwestern University

Clinical Interests: Preventative Medicine, Full-Spectrum Family Medicine, Underserved Populations, Women’s Health

I'm starting my medical residency journey with a heart full of passion for helping people, thanks to my upbringing and experiences. Growing up in Houston, Texas, I was surrounded by family members who were all about healthcare. My dad, a physician himself, showed me how medicine can truly change lives for the better. That inspired me to dive into the world of medicine.

After wrapping up my Biology degree in 2015, I decided to take my education further. In 2019, I obtained a Master of Medical Sciences at the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth. Along the way, I made many lifelong friends, which has been one of the best parts of this journey. I chose Abrazo Health FM Residency because it felt like home. Everyone there treats each other like family, supporting and cheering each other on. I can't wait to dive into this new chapter in Arizona and keep growing as a medical professional.

When I'm not wearing my white coat, you'll probably find me out on the pickleball court, getting lost in a good book, or escaping into the virtual worlds of PC gaming.

Sophia Fasani, DO

Undergraduate: Arizona State University

Medical School: Midwestern University – Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine

Clinical Interests: Preventative Medicine, Women’s Health, Underserved Populations, Full Spectrum Family Medicine, and Community Outreach

As a Phoenix native, I attended Arizona State University where I majored in Medical Microbiology with a minor in Nonprofit Leadership and Management. I love volunteering with nonprofit organizations including Vitalant and the American Red Cross and have been a blood drive coordinator for over ten years. I continued my education at the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine where I had the opportunity to pursue a dual degree and graduated with both my medical degree and Master of Public Health. I view early intervention as the key to successful patient outcomes and optimized health.

Growing up in a loud and proud Italian American culture, family is very important to me. When I learned of a career where I could care for everyone else’s families, it made perfect sense to go into primary care where I can create genuine relationships and continuity with my patients who will, in a certain way, become like a second family.

I appreciate the compassionate and supportive community at Abrazo, and I am extremely excited to stay and practice Family Medicine in beautiful Arizona!

In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with family and friends, playing games, watching movies, completing puzzles, and exploring the many dining, concert, and sporting events in Arizona.