Current Residents
Class of 2029

Andrea Paola Rosado Albacarys, M.D.
- San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, Puerto Rico
Hometown: Hatillo, Puerto Rico
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Exploring local coffee shops.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?
Family Medicine gives me the opportunity to build lifelong relationships with my patients
while promoting preventive care and healthy lifestyles. Being both an advocate and
educator allows me to empower patients to take an active role in their health.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?
I chose El Paso because training in a border community provides exposure to a diverse
patient population and a broad spectrum of clinical presentations. I was drawn to
the city's warmth, rich culture, and strong sense of community. The program's commitment
to community engagement and holistic care aligned perfectly with my career goals.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Lifestyle Medicine, Geriatrics, and Office-Based Procedures
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book:
"Que será, será. Whatever will be, will be. The future's not ours to see. Que será,
será."
Random fact about yourself:
I run a social media account dedicated to discovering local coffee shops.
Plans after Residency:
To practice full-spectrum outpatient Family Medicine.

Manuel Serna Castillon, M.D.
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
Hometown: El Paso, Texas
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Hosting game nights, both board and video games! Depending on the weather, I enjoy walking my dog on trails and helping my wife find restaurants with nice patio views of the mountains.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?
I love the outpatient setting and with it, the opportunity to provide patient education to all age groups. Preventive medicine is near and dear to my heart, as is the promotion of a healthy lifestyle that pairs perfectly with the patient continuity that Family Medicine offers.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?
I was born and raised in El Paso and have always wanted to give back to the community that raised me. If not for family and friends, El Paso’s rich culture, beautiful scenery, and lovely patient population makes it a great place to live and practice medicine.
Professional/Clinical Interests:
Integrative Medicine, Community Medicine, Adolescent Medicine, and Behavioral Health. I’m very passionate about Border Health and working with vulnerable populations.
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book:
Quote: “It’s not who you are underneath. It’s what you do that defines you.” – Batman Begins
Movie: The Dark Knight
TV Show: The Vampire Diaries
Book: Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
Random fact about yourself:
I love holidays and any opportunity to dress up—I try to make my own costumes, especially of superheroes and other movie characters.
Plans after Residency:
Continue to practice here in El Paso at a primary care clinic in hopes of making an impact in the community’s overall health and wellbeing, helping to provide accessible care for anyone that needs it while dispelling any medical misinformation.

Athulya Johnson, M.D.
- Texas Tech El Paso Paul L Foster School of Medicine
Hometown: Houston, TX
Favorite things to do outside the hospital:
Playing the violin, singing to my son, and watching the sunset over the mountains.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?
What excites me most about family medicine is the opportunity to spend protected,
face-to-face time with patients while increasing access to high-quality care. I value
the longitudinal continuity that allows me to care for patients over time and manage
their health comprehensively across all stages of life. I also enjoy serving as the
first point of contact for patients, as it challenges me to think broadly, sharpen
my diagnostic skills, and approach every patient encounter with curiosity and purpose.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?
I loved training in El Paso as a medical student because I felt a strong sense of
community and connection. The people of El Paso were always welcoming, humble, and
deeply appreciative. Training on the border gave me exposure to a wide range of complex
clinical conditions. I especially enjoyed my experience at the Kenworthy Clinic and
working with the faculty, who are exceptional mentors genuinely invested in teaching
and supporting both residents and medical students.
Professional/Clinical Interests:
Community and rural medicine, care for underserved communities, and public health.
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book:
"Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." — St. Mother Teresa
Random fact about yourself:
I speak three languages and can read and write five languages.
Plans after Residency:
To practice as an outpatient primary care physician at a Federally Qualified Health
Center, with a focus on community medicine.

Kevin Ladd, D.O.
- Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: El Paso, TX
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Spending time with my wife and daughter, working out, building LEGO, working on my Mustang, and keeping up with the latest technology and gadgets.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty? I was inspired by my own family physician growing up and the lasting impact he had on my life. I love the breadth of Family Medicine, the opportunity to build lifelong relationships with patients, and the privilege of caring for individuals and families through every stage of life.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency? El Paso has always been home. I wanted to train in and care for the community that helped shape me while staying close to my family.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Full-spectrum Family Medicine, preventive care, Integrative Medicine, Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM), medical education, and women's health/obstetrics.
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: “Sometimes life is like this dark tunnel. You can't always see the light at the end of the tunnel, but if you just keep moving... you will come to a better place.”- Uncle Iroh from Avatar the Last Airbender
Random fact about yourself: Before medical school, I was heavily involved in ballroom dancing and even danced competitively with the NMSU DanceSport Team.
Plans after Residency: I hope to practice comprehensive Family Medicine with OMM, continue teaching students and residents, and potentially pursue additional training in women's health while serving my hometown community

Aishah McDaniel, M.D.
- Avalon University School of Medicine, Curaçao
Hometown:
Houston, Texas
Favorite things to do outside the hospital:
Trying new restaurants and recipes, cooking, and spending time with my family.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?
I enjoy learning about systems and figuring out what went wrong to cause symptoms.
Family Medicine allows me to use that knowledge to help patients manage chronic conditions
and everyday health concerns. I also enjoy the variety and broad scope of the specialty.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?
Texas Tech offers strong, well-rounded training, and El Paso felt like a welcoming, family-friendly city where my family and I could feel at home.
Professional/Clinical Interests:
Preventive medicine, chronic disease management, child and adolescent health, and integrative medicine.
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book:
Lord of the Rings, Inception, Sherlock Holmes
Random fact about yourself:
I am originally from Malaysia and am married with two children.
Plans after Residency:
I’m still exploring my specific interests and career path within Family Medicine and
hope to use residency to find the path that fits me best.

Anh Pham, D.O.
- Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York
Hometown: Winnetka, California
Favorite Things to Do Outside the Hospital: Hiking with my Labrador, Daisy, snowboarding,
cooking and baking from scratch, exploring new restaurants, and spending time outdoors.
What Led You to Choose Family Medicine as a Specialty?
I love being the person patients turn to whenever they have a concern about their
health. As a
family physician, you have the privilege of caring for patients through every stage
of life while
serving as their quarterback, advocate, and trusted confidant. Building those long-term
relationships and making a meaningful difference in my patients' lives is what drew
me to
Family Medicine.
Why Did You Choose El Paso for Residency?
From my very first visit, I was struck by how genuinely kind and welcoming everyone
in El Paso
was. The city has a calm, close-knit feel that immediately felt like home. Between
the supportive
community, beautiful sunshine year-round, and the opportunity to train at a program
committed
to serving an underserved population, El Paso felt like the perfect place to begin
my career.
Professional/Clinical Interests:
Geriatric medicine, sports medicine, pediatrics, women's health, preventive care,
and advocating
for underserved communities.
Favorite Quote/Movie/TV Show/Book:
I'm a big fan of crime dramas, psychological thrillers, and horror movies. Some of
my recent
favorites include Mindhunter, The Closer, and Obsession.
Random Fact About Yourself:
I was born on my dad's birthday!
Plans After Residency:
I hope to practice as a primary care physician while staying involved in resident
and medical
student education. I enjoy teaching and mentoring, and I'd love to help train the
next generation
of family physicians

Madison Randak, D.O.
- Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Louisiana Campus
Hometown: Billings, MT
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: I love to read and spend time with my family and pets
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty? I want a career where I can establish long-term relationships with my patients and make an impact in multiple aspects of their lives.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency? I grew up visiting the southwest, and now my sister lives in El Paso! I fell in love with the area while visiting her and then fell in love with the program when I interviewed. It’s the perfect combination for me: a program in an amazing location, close to family, that values its residents, and puts so much effort into helping its community.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Outpatient women’s health
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: Favorite movie: Say Anything, Favorite book: As an avid reader, I can’t choose!
Random fact about yourself: I’m an identical twin, and we are the fourth generation of Dr. Randaks!
Plans after Residency: Stay in El Paso and practice in a clinic. I am looking forward to getting to know
the city better and maybe raise a family here!

Haritha Shah, M.D.
- NRI Medical College
Hometown: San Jose, California
Favorite things to do outside the hospital:
I love staying active through sports. You'll usually find me playing badminton or
soccer,
swimming, or trying out a new outdoor activity whenever I get the chance.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?
I was drawn to Family Medicine after seeing the profound impact that full-spectrum
care can
have on a community, especially in areas with limited resources. Witnessing physicians
improve
access to care while addressing a wide range of health needs showed me the meaningful
difference FM can make.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?
From the moment I visited El Paso, I felt a genuine sense of community. Everyone was
welcoming, and it was clear how much the faculty truly care about both the residents
and the
future of the program!
Professional/Clinical Interests: Sports Medicine
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book:
"If I am worth anything later, I am worth something now. For wheat is wheat, even
if people think
it is a grass in the beginning." — Vincent Van Gogh
Random fact about me :
I love all animals, including furry and scaly friends, but bees are the only exception—I’ve
never
been stung and am terrified I’ll be allergic.
Plans after Residency:
To pursue a career in Family Medicine with a focus on Sports Medicine, helping patients
of all
ages prevent injuries and return to the activities they love
Class of 2028

Ahmed Alsafar, M.D.
- University of Colorado School of Medicine
- Aurora, Colorado
Hometown: Tucson, AZ
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: coffee shops, road trips, and music.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?: I was drawn to the combination of longitudinal and acute care, the broad scope of practice, and the fun, dynamic team environment.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?: The location, the people I met during my interview, and the program offering comprehensive training along with opportunities to be involved in research and medical education.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Diagnostic challenges, cancer prevention, and evidence-based medicine.
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: Breaking Bad, Scrubs (TV shows)
Random fact about yourself: I have tried every Matcha spot in town.
Plans after Residency: To be determined.

Yesha Amin, M.D.
- McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston
- Houston, Texas
Hometown: Katy, TX
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Reading, embroidery, crochet
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?: Family Medicine is appealing because it allows me to see patients of all ages. I also enjoy being able to follow my patients long-term through all the stages of their life.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?: I chose El Paso because of the supportive family medicine program as well as the abundance of sunshine!
Professional/Clinical Interests: Full-spectrum primary care, preventative medicine
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: The Health Gap by Micheal Marmot
Random fact about yourself: I enjoy calculus.
Plans after Residency: Outpatient primary care

Lauren Castillo, D.O.
- Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Las Cruces, New Mexico
Hometown: Falun, Sweden
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Spend time with family, Health & Fitness, travel, dance, and read
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?: I chose family medicine because I love the variety it offers and the chance to care for patients across their lifespan. Building long-term relationships through continuity of care is deeply meaningful to me. I am also passionate about prevention—helping people stay healthy rather than just treating illness—I am excited to incorporate sports medicine to support active lifestyles. Family medicine perfectly combines these interests, allowing me to make a lasting difference in my community.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?: El Paso has become home, with a warm, welcoming community and great weather. After attending medical school in nearby Las Cruces and having both children here, strong roots have been established.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Sports Medicine, preventative medicine
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: "Nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard you can hit, it's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward." - Rocky; “Life before death, strength before weakness, Journey before destination” - Brandon Sanderson
Random fact about yourself: I love combining travel and running; my favorite way to explore a new city/town is by running their streets and trails.
Plans after Residency: Sports Medicine fellowship

Vanessa Green, M.D.
- McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston
- Houston, Texas
Hometown: Harlingen, Texas
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Cooking, baking, trying new cuisines/dishes and restaurants, video games, and word puzzles
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?: I appreciate the flexibility and variety in Family Medicine. There are many opportunities to form long-term patient relationships, integrate teamwork in decision making, educate, encourage personal involvement in one’s healthcare, and further self-understanding.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?: I was excited to improve my Spanish-speaking skills and experience the mountains and a new environment. My time visiting El Paso revealed kind-hearted individuals and a welcoming place to grow and learn.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Lifestyle, preventive, integrative medicine
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: Anything with a little mystery draws me in! A TV show I really enjoyed was Dark.
Random fact about yourself: I am a night owl
Plans after Residency: I am keeping an open mind and remaining flexible, but I hope to do work in underserved areas.

Michael Lopez, M.D.
- Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara School of Medicine
- Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
Hometown: El Paso, TX
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Outside the hospital, I enjoy staying active through weightlifting, spending time outdoors, and playing recreational sports. I also value quality time with friends and family.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?: I chose Family Medicine because it enables me to connect with and support individuals of all ages in my community. I'm especially passionate about integrating primary care with sports medicine to promote long-term health, function, and performance.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?: I chose to train in El Paso because it’s home for me. Growing up here, I’ve developed a strong connection to the community and a deep understanding of its unique healthcare needs. I'm grateful for the opportunity to give back and grow as a physician in the place that shaped me.
Professional/Clinical Interests: My professional interests center on primary care and sports medicine.
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: Favorite Quote: “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.” – Marcus Aurelius; Favorite Movie: Friday Night Lights; Favorite Book: The Strongest Shall Survive by Bill Starr
Random fact about yourself: Before residency, I taught high school and college science courses—education has always been a core part of my journey.
Plans after Residency: After residency, I plan to pursue a Sports Medicine fellowship with a focus on concussion management, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and ultrasound-guided procedures. My long-term goal is to integrate primary care with advanced sports medicine techniques to deliver high-quality, movement-focused care for athletes and active individuals across all ages.

Fernand Mentor, M.D.
- Universidad Iberoamericana
- Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Hometown: Miami, FL
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Hiking, working out, exploring national parks and new restaurants, and playing my PS5
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?: I enjoy being the go-to doctor for a wide range of everyday health concerns and building lasting relationships with patients across all stages of life.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?: The program’s strong clinical opportunities, supportive environment, and El Paso’s unique geography and affordable cost of living made it a perfect fit.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Lifestyle medicine, male-pattern baldness, preventive care, and sports-related injuries
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: Favorite quote: “Discipline equals freedom.” – Jocko Willink; Favorite TV shows: Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, Mr. Robot — too many to pick from; Favorite movies: Pulp Fiction, Avatar, Avengers, Sinners — too many good ones to choose; Favorite book: The Great Gatsby
Random fact about yourself: I speak four languages—English, French, Spanish, and Haitian Creole—and often help translate for patients.
Plans after Residency: Pursue a Sports Medicine fellowship and practice in a community-focused clinic that blends preventive and performance care

Jose Silva Martin, M.D.
- Universidad de Ciencias Medicas Cienfuegos
- Cienfuegos, Cuba
Hometown: Cienfuegos, Cuba
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: I enjoy going to the gym, exploring new places, and spending time reflecting, journaling, or listening to music. I also enjoy meaningful conversations, especially when they challenge me to grow. But above all, what I cherish the most is spending time with my family.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty?: Family Medicine is the cornerstone of primary care and aligns perfectly with my values of continuity, connection, and service. I’m drawn to its versatility, the ability to care for patients of all ages and backgrounds, and the privilege of building long-term relationships that go beyond isolated visits. It allows me to treat the whole person, serve underserved communities, and grow into a well-rounded, compassionate physician.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency?: From the vibrant food scene to the beautiful mountains that surround the city, El Paso offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and community. As one of the largest binational metropolitan areas in the U.S., it is home to a rich, diverse population that reflects my own background and values. As a Latino physician, I feel deeply connected to this community and passionate about providing care to those who are often underserved or face language and access barriers. The warmth and support I’ve experienced here are unlike anything I’ve felt elsewhere, making El Paso not just a place to train, but the perfect place to grow as both a physician and a person.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Community Medicine, Preventive Care, Global Health, and Health Equity. I’m also passionate about mentoring students and supporting their growth. I’ve recently developed a strong interest in Pain Management as a way to help patients stay active, improve function, and enjoy a better quality of life.
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: “What is most needed for learning is a humble mind.” – Confucius. No matter how far I’ve come, I don’t have all the answers and I believe everyone, in their own way, has something to teach.
Random fact about yourself: There’s music playing pretty much anytime I’m not working or asleep. Life’s better with background music, so I just add mine.
Plans after Residency: Work in primary care with a focus on preventive medicine and community health, aiming to improve access and long-term outcomes through education and continuity of care
Class of 2027

Caitlin Harty, M.D.
- University of Arkansas for Medical Science
Hometown: Cabot, Arkansas
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: fishing, gardening, baking, sewing, and reading
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty? I love the variety, and no other specialty allows me to build long-term relationships with my patients while providing “cradle to grave” care like family medicine does!
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency? El Paso first appeared on our radar when my husband got orders to Fort Bliss. We were both charmed by the desert, and the welcoming atmosphere made us determined to stay for residency!
Professional/Clinical Interests: Patient education & health literacy
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book:
Quote: “Do not spoil the wonder with haste!” – JRR Tolkien
TV Show: Downton Abbey
It’s impossible to choose a favorite movie or book…
Random fact about yourself: Despite my best efforts, I’ve never been able to learn to whistle!
Plans after Residency: I’m keeping an open mind, but I’d love to open up my own clinic one day.

Lizette Carmen Gutierrez, M.D.
- University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston John Sealy School of Medicine
Hometown: El Paso, Texas
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Hiking, spending time with family and three dogs– Waffles, Maple, and Pup Pups, traveling, working out.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty? Family medicine
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency? After completing my medical education in Galveston over four enriching years, my heart remained steadfastly set on returning to my roots in El Paso, the community that shaped me. As a proud native El Pasoan, I can attest to the unparalleled sense of belonging and diversity found here. This vibrant tapestry of cultures offers boundless opportunities for growth and collaboration. My desire to return home was not merely fueled by nostalgia, but by a deep-seated commitment to give back to the place that fostered my dreams. Armed with the insights gained from my experiences in a different locale, I eagerly anticipate the chance to enrich my residency with diverse perspectives and approaches.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Preventive medicine, sports medicine, bordertown health, Latinx/Hispanic health disparities.
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: “Learn your rules. You better learn your rules. If you don’t you’ll be eaten in your sleep. Rawhhhhhr.” ~Dwight Schrute, The Office
Random fact about yourself: I used to be a veterinarian technician, I love animals. It’s mandatory to show me pictures of your furry friends!
Plans after Residency: I am committed to serving the vibrant community of El Paso with the utmost dedication as a family medicine physician. My passion lies in the integration of integrative health and sports medicine, and I aim to weave these disciplines seamlessly into my practice, offering comprehensive care to all those I have the privilege to treat.

Kate Hall, D.O.
- Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Springfield, MO
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Game Nights with Friends, Reading, Painting, Travel, and Playing with my THREE German Shepherd Dogs
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty? I wanted to be the type of physician who could confidently treat any patient that walked through my clinic doors. Family Medicine treats everything and everyone. It’s the perfect place for me!
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency? I have spent the last decade living and working in the Borderlands. This is home. These people are my friends, neighbors, and support system. When the opportunity arose to stay and do my residency here, I couldn’t let it pass me by!
Professional/Clinical Interests: I have a special interest in the medical management of healthy aging and longevity, including the wide variety of interventions available to support patients in achieving their aesthetic goals throughout life.
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: “If there is no wind, row!” -Latin Proverb
Random fact about yourself: Prior to going back to medical school, I did physical therapy and first came to the American Southwest on a work contract for a travel physical therapy company. I fell in love with the place and have been here ever since.
Plans after Residency: I will spend a few years working for the VA as fulfillment of a scholarship program. After that, I’d like to open my own private practice and eventually create a therapeutic ranch using equine/canine therapy, the great outdoors, and group therapy to provide PT/OT and mental health support to those that need it.

Crystal Li, M.D.
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Hometown: Phoenix
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Exploring national parks, hiking, competitive badminton, volleyball
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty? Variety, flexibility, being able to take care of the most people, most of the time
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency? The mountains and sunshine
Professional/Clinical Interests: Full spectrum primary care
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book: Knives Out
Random fact about yourself: "I’ll find a way".
Plans after Residency: live my best life

Alejandro Nevarez Reyes, D.O.
- Midwestern University (AZCOM)
Hometown: Glendale, AZ
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Exploring the city and finding events to attend such as local sports, farmer markets, or festivals. With my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, working out, and playing videogames.
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty? There are quite a few reasons. I was always drawn to family medicine because of the emphasis and value on long-term relationships in patient care. Another reason was the flexibility of your practice including hours, scope, and your target population. Lastly, I hope to one day be able to work with my community to help address health equity issues by focusing on preventative medicine and community education.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency? For me, it was 90% about the FM residency program itself. I felt that the residents and faculty genuinely were invested in one another here. Furthermore, being so close to the border would allow me to practice my medical Spanish and would expose me to more unique clinical scenarios.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Health equity, community medicine, addiction medicine.
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book:
Favorite quote: "If you can't pay it back, pay it forward"
Favorite TV show; Fallout (series and games), GoT/House of Dragon
Favorite recent movie; Godzilla minus one
Favorite classic; Lord of the Rings trilogy
Random fact about yourself: I hope to visit all 30 MLB stadiums and I'm currently at 8 out of 30.
Plans after Residency: Not sure yet, I would eventually like to have my own practice but I am keeping my possibilities open at this time.

Trevor Nichols, D.O.
- Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Houston, TX
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Cooking, going to the movie theater, reading
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty? I am very much a believer in building trust with patients over time. I appreciate the ability to form longstanding relationships with patients from all walks of life and take a comprehensive approach to patient health.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency? El Paso is a wonderful city with a diverse community I am eager to live and practice in. All the sunshine is a major plus as well!
Professional/Clinical Interests: Preventative medicine, geriatrics, palliative care, general practice
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book:
“Every second counts.”
Movie- Badlands
TV show- The Wire
Book- Slaughterhouse V by Kurt Vonnegut
Random fact about yourself: I earned my undergraduate degree in mathematics before pursuing a career in medicine.
Plans after Residency: Practice in Texas in a predominantly outpatient setting.

Ana Pinell, M.D.
- Saba University School of Medicine
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: Crochet, digital art, and gardening
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty? The opportunity to work with patients throughout different stages of their life and establishing long term rapport was very appealing to me. I was also drawn to the variety found in the practice and scope of family medicine in terms of patient populations and procedures.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency? I was born and raised in Texas in a Spanish speaking family and felt that I could contribute to the needs of the community. I also found the local culture and scenery in El Paso to be appealing.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Behavioral/mental health, geriatric medicine
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book:
Favorite movie – The Wizard of Oz
Favorite TV Show – The Good Place
Random fact about yourself: I enjoy collecting different kinds of yarn to try out for my crochet projects.
Plans after Residency: I am looking forward to pursuing fellowship opportunities after the completion of my residency.

Roy Urum, M.D.
- Medical College of Georgia
Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
Favorite things to do outside the hospital: I love spending time with my family and going to church. I also enjoy cooking and trying different recipes. And of course, video games and sports
What led you to choose Family Medicine as a specialty? I chose family medicine because throughout medical school I found myself liking each aspect of medicine and I felt as if family medicine was a specialty that would allow me to care for multiple different ages and provide comprehensive medicine. I also feel as if family medicine physicians form a unique relationship with their patients and community that goes beyond just medicine.
Why did you choose El Paso to train for residency? My significant other is from Mexico and throughout the years she has helped me grow an appreciation for the Mexican culture. The residency program here in El Paso was one of the first programs I researched due to high Hispanic population and its location near Mexico. My appreciation for the various Hispanic cultures has grown so much over the years that I’ve made it one of my goals to serve and give back to this community that has openly accepted me. I also fell in love with the beauty of the mountains of El Paso coupled with the bright night lights of the city.
Professional/Clinical Interests: Sports Medicine
Favorite quote/movie/TV show/book:
Favorite quote: “If God is for us, who can be against us” Romans 8:31
Random fact about yourself: I played clarinet in my high school band
Plans after Residency: Outpatient family medicine practice
