Program Info

  Third Year Residents
 
  Melissa Borrero, MD
 
 


University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey - Robert Wood Johnson
Hello Lovely People!! My name is Melissa. I was born and raised in good ole’ NJ. Went to Rutgers University then jumped across the campus to attend UMDNJ-RWJMS. I made a point during my educational years to stop, smell the roses and refocus my vision. Along the way I also attended Massage Arts of Philadelphia where I learned the importance of body mechanics, therapeutic touch and how to be good to my body as we all should.

So in my attempts to keep a balanced life I make every effort eat right, get enough sleep, keep from slouching and make it to yoga class at least twice a week. Oh and I have not even mentioned that I love to dance! Any weekend free in my schedule is sure to have a night out on the town to enjoy some soulful house music that just goes right through me and makes me feel reborn.

   

   
 
  Leila Hagshenas, MD
 
 

Chicago Medical School
Well helloooo!  My name is Leila, and I was raised in a cornfield in Rockford, Illinois.  No, not technically *in* a cornfield, but I was surrounded by them for most of my youth.  After surviving an occasionally sitcom-like Iranian upbringing in a conservative, semi-rural Midwestern town, I went to the University of Illinois to study French and physiology.  I finished my master’s and medical programs at the Chicago Medical School, then decided to break free from the Midwest for residency.  The BIFP program was an obvious choice as it encourages my interests in complementary and alternative medicine ( CAM), LGBT health, and working for social change.  I am continuously inspired by the faculty and my fellow residents.

When not running around the hospital (I just do it for the exercise), I enjoy participating in Critical Mass, rollerblading, and making music with and without my former Chicago band 'Hey Champ'. Drop me a line with any questions:  lhagshen@chpnet.org.

   

   
 
  Adesuwa Ighodaro, MD
 
 


Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Hello! My name is Adesuwa (A-day-su-wa) or Ade for short. Born in Brooklyn, NY, I had the opportunity of growing up partly in Brooklyn and Nigeria. Upon returning from Nigeria, I attended Yale University and medical school at Mt Sinai School of Medicine. After completing one year of OB/GYN, I realized I wished to have a more primary care focus in my career in medicine. My interests are International health/medicine, Women’s health, Adolescent health and health policy. I feel Family Medicine gives me the unique opportunity to satisfy my interests and BI is definitely one of the most supportive and engaging places to do it.

   

   
 
  Elaine Kang , MD
 
 


New York Medical College
Hi! My name is Elaine, born and raised in New York City. I grew up in a medically underseved portion of Queens, New York and moved over the Queenborough Bridge to Manhattan to received a B.S. in Biology at NYU. After 21 years of living in the city I moved to Westchester, NY to received a M.S. in Physiology and a M.D. at New York Medical College. My interest in Family Medicine spawned from its diversity and dedication to serving the underserved community. I also have a strong interest in CAM, cross-cultural medicine, and research. Outside of the hospital I enjoy the numerous activities that NY has to offer - dining, dancing, Broadway shows, roller-blading, snowboarding, and much more. Please feel free to email at any time ek203@yahoo.com.

   

   
 
  Natasha Kelly, DO -- Chief Resident
 
 

 


Kirksville College of Osteropathic Medicine
Hi! My name is Natasha Kelly and I grew up in Norwell, MA. I received my BA in Biochemistry from Middlebury College in Vermont. I then decided to explore the Midwest for Medical School, attending Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine; the founding school of Osteopathy. All that time in rural American, made me long for the sirens and the horns of New York City. I picked Beth Israel for its strong commitment to CAM, Women’s Health, and support of Osteopathic Medicine. Above all, I look forward to the opportunity to train in New York City, with its diversity, talented physicians and strong academic reputation.

Since I have been in the city I have developed a love for biking; having explored all the trails on the east and west sides, as well as central park. Besides biking, I love to ski, draw, and hike

   

   
 
  Alyssa Luddy, MD -- Chief Resident
 
 

 


New York Medical College
Hi! I grew up in Connecticut, the second of four kids and went to college at Villanova University in Pennsylvania.  Although I knew I wanted to become a physician at young age, I also wanted time between college and medical school.  While it ended up being longer than anticipated (seven years!), I had wonderful experiences ranging from working in laboratory research to being a case manager in a homeless shelter and participating in a volunteer program in Los Angeles.  When I finally entered medical school at New York Medical College, after attending graduate school there, I was immediately drawn to family medicine.  Their approach to patients, and medicine in general, is the ideal way to practice medicine in my eyes.  As a fourth year student I rotated at Beth Israel and found the program offered everything I was looking for, including strong experience in CAM therapy and caring for the homeless population, and the most amazing people!  Please feel free to contact me with any questions at alyssaluddy@hotmail.com.  Thanks!

   

   
 
  Elizabeth McCormick, MD
 
 

University of Connecticut
Born and raised in Connecticut, I ventured a bit farther North to Massachusetts to attend Mount Holyoke College. In hopes of being able to spend time traveling, reading and writing, I initially planned on continuing to study medical anthropology. However, a semester spent working at a Hospice in England changed my mind. After college I decided to return to Connecticut to complete a Post-Bac program and medical school at UCONN.

I am excited and impressed by the energy of the residents and faculty at Beth Israel and encouraged by their commitment to integrate family and community based medicine into New York City. Being raised by a New Yorker and having spent a lot of time here over the years, I’m glad to call the big city home! I am interested in learning more about international health, end of life/palliative care, primary care psychiatry, women’s reproductive health and Ob. I am looking forward to continuing to explore NYC- especially the museums and restaurants! Feel free to email me with any questions etmccormick@gmail.com.


   

   
 
  Sarah Miller, MD
 
 

SUNY Stony Brook
Hello. I was drawn to Beth Israel amongst all the family medicine training programs because of its personality and potential. The house staff and faculty are outspoken, passionate, and full of energy, and I have found that they support these same qualities in me. The hospital has its roots in providing for the urban underserved, and the patient population we care for in the inpatient setting and in our Institute for Urban Family Health-associated clinic are diverse and eager to be partners in caring for their own health. I was also excited by the relative youth and therefore potential for continued growth of the already well-established program. We are well-respected leaders within the hospital and at the various outreach sites where we provide and learn.
  After having spent four years visiting Long Island for medical school at SUNY Stony Brook, I was ready to move back to the City. I am originally from Brookline, MA, received a liberal arts education at Barnard College here in NYC, and for several years after lived in Bed-Stuy and worked for City Parks and Recreation, amongst other jobs. I did a post-baccalaureate program at Hunter College, where I met my first group of friends motivated to improve the health of the City, and have done research in Harm Reduction. I am a board member of Physicians for National Health Program and believe strongly in universal healthcare and the need for change in general. I was a member of Stony Brook’s Aid to Impaired Medical Students Committee, and continue to be involved with MSFC and AAFP. In my spare time I build furniture, repair plumbing, change the kitty litter, and clean the turtle tank. If anyone wants to watch a movie, let me know.

   

   
 
  Sarah Morrison , MD
 
 

Albany Medical College
  Sarah grew up in Boston and attended college in western Massachusetts. She has done bench research in Boston, clinical diabetes research in Seattle, and medical school in Albany.
  Sarah is delighted to be living in New York City, where she enjoys a good sidecar, madeleines, and sleeping late. She is also delighted to pursue her interest in urban underserved medicine at the Beth Israel Urban Family Practice.

   

  Second Year Residents
 
  Blair Heinke , MD
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


SUNY Downstate College of Medicine
   I’m originally from rural Maryland and was lucky enough to have my first clinic experience at University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center.  As a biology/biochemistry dual major and four-year track/cross country runner at Western Maryland College I always wanted to come to NYC.  When I decided to attend SUNY Downstate College of Medicine in Brooklyn, NY my coach teased me about my running coming in handy as a defense mechanism.  My coach might have been wrong about that, but running continues to play a huge role in my life.    During medical school I was lucky enough to run the NYC marathon in ‘05 and ’06, as well as the Boston Marathon in 2007, and to find a job with the Nike Running Club in NYC.  Additionally my interest got me involved with my school’s Sports Medicine program and I received the SUNY Downstate Orthopedic Surgery Award.  Running also influenced my residency choice as I hope to specialize in Sports Medicine.
   So far Beth Israel’s Family Medicine Program has been a great learning experiencing. The ideals and attitudes of the attendings and my fellow residents make our program a very unique place.  
   If you have any questions I can be contacted at bheinke@chpnet.org

 

 

   

   
 
  Alison Lewis, MD
 
 

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
   I am from New Jersey and went to medical school in Pittsburgh (which I
loved).  This is my first time living in NYC, which I find to be overwhelming at times.
   I chose this program because I'm interested in women's health, adolescent medicine, helping the underserved and I wanted to be on the east coast closer to my family.  In my free time I like to go dancing and I love to sing.
   Take care and good luck with your search.

   

   
 
  Mark McDowell, MD
 
 

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
   My name is Mark and I am from Ohio. I moved to New York and really am enjoying life in the city.
   My interests include immunology, Men's health and family planning. Email me anytime. mmcdowel@chpnet.org

   

   
 
  Daniel Napolitano, MD
 
 

New Jersey Medical School
   I grew up in Northern New Jersey. After High school I moved to NYC and worked for a few years before deciding to go to college. I went to Hunter College and majored in Religion with a minor in Anthropology. After college I went to NJMS in Newark, New Jersey.
   I chose BI for it's people and location. I plan to do an OB fellowship after residency and then work in an underdeveloped nation. Other interests include hiking, music and herbology
   If you have any questions feel free to write me at dnapoli@chpnet.org.

   

   
 
  Danya Reich, MD
 
 

 


SUNY Downstate College of Medicine
   I grew up in the 'burbs of Boston, went to undergrad at University of Pennsylvania in Philly, and, to complete the east-cost-urban-triumvirate, I then moved to New York City. I worked here for many years in film production & as a writer and then one day decided to take a biology class. Then a chemistry class or two. Physics. The MCATs. You know how it goes. Suddenly I was in med school at SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn and before I could spell "world" backwards, I found myself reporting for internship here at Beth Israel.
   I chose BI because of its integrative medicine component, because of the values & practices embodied in the Institute for Urban Family Health's mission, because it's in Union Square (and I can ride my bike or walk to work). And mostly because of the people I met on my interview day and the people BI Family Medicine attracts to its residency program. When I interviewed here, I immediately felt like I fit in - in a way I had never experienced throughout medical school. The people here are warm, kind, intelligent, insightful, laid back, and believe in and practice inspiring medicine.
   Please email if you have any questions...dreich@chpnet.org

   

   
 
  Mandy Sacher, DO
 
 


New York College of Osteopathic Medicine
   Born and raised in LI, off to college at University of Michigan, on walkabout for a few years (experiential learning), Naturopathic school for one year, New York College of Osteopathic Medicine for four, landed here at Beth Israel in July. Strong interests in alternative medicine, animal rights, OMT, working with underserved communities and universal health care. Learning ukelele right now.  Figured I'd stick with a small instrument given the time limitations of intern year and the space limitations of NYC living.
   Drawn to BI by the amazing people (so passionate!), the community, the commitment to making the world better, and the big succulent apple where all the magic happens.  
   My email, msacher@chpnet.org, is always accepting questions/comments/gifts of poetry or prose.

   

   
 
  Christina Yu, MD
 
 

Baylor College of Medicine
  Christina was a welcome addition to the class of 2010 coming to us after a year of OB experience in Texas.
  As a medical student Christina was an active member of the American Medical Association, and Texas Geriatrics Foundation.
  In her free time Christina enjoys flag football, cooking various asian dishes, running and working out, and watching movies.

   

  First Year Residents
 
  Joyce Akinyooye, MD
 
 

SUNY Downstate Medical Center
I was born and raised in South Jamaica Queens NY. I went to Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education/ City College in Harlem NY. ( Harlem World!) Then went over to BK to finish with my medical education up at Downstate.( Go Brooklyn!) I am attracted to family medicine because I love seeing a variety of patients from newborns to the elderly. At Beth Israel i know I will get the knowledge and experience to be a great Family doctor.  Outside the doors of the hospital and clinic I am learning to the ropes of being a newly wed. I love spending time with my husband, I am also involved with my church, I like studying the Bible by myself and with others, I also enjoy watching movies, hanging out with friends and family, eating out, chocolate,laughing and just having fun. I love NY  and believe it or not 42nd street Times Square is one of my favorite places to go.( I guess I like crowds....) Feel free to email me with any questions or concerns at jakinyoo@chpnet.org

   

   
 
  Erica Allen, MD
 
 

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
My interest in healthcare among poor and underserved communities prompted me to seize the opportunity join the BI family. I was born and raised in sunny Los Angeles, California where I completed my undergraduate studies at UCLA. Enthusiastic about the potential benefits of combining public health and primary care practice in caring for underserved communities, I pursued a master’s degree in public health from MCP Hahnemann/Drexel University in the historic Philadelphia, PA. My years in Philadelphia gave me an opportunity to not only acquire my MPH, but also to see how Public Health and medical concerns are applied in cities other than those I had become accustomed to in my home town.

My practice goals are to contribute to existing efforts to bring forth better health conditions among diverse ethnic communities, to eliminate ethnic/racial disparities in health care and to improve safety net systems for uninsured and underinsured populations. Whether it is through promoting cardiovascular health in Philadelphia, supporting health fairs and HIV/AIDS prevention efforts in Los Angeles, or working to expand school-based health services as a health policy fellow in Washington, DC- I have dedicated my life to these missions. In my spare time, I enjoy playing the flute, watching movies, spending time with my family, exploring cultural and recreational arts, and visiting the numerous communities throughout New York City!

   
   

 
 
  Elizabeth Enschede, MD
 
 

Weill Medical College of Cornell University
I grew up on a homestead in upstate NY. I went to Sarah Lawrence College and concentrated in Spanish, spending my junior year in Costa Rica. I started a career in education and community organizing at Global Kids in NYC doing advocacy work and “inner city” after school programs. It was in the midst of this work that it dawned on me that I wasn't cut out for the classroom and that medicine was a  perfect match for my person. I did a post bacc at City College, went to med school at Cornell and found family medicine easily once I declared myself a community oriented physician. Beth Israel FM residency was an easy choice with its unmatched diversity, its focus on advocacy and outreach, and its superb quality of patient care and faculty advising.


Now I live in Brooklyn with my husband and son. I have been thrilled with the quality of the training here at BI. I am amongst outstanding faculty and inspiring peers in a place that values community medicine,  universal access and complimentary modalities.

I would be happy to talk about our program anytime: eensched@chpnet.org


   

   
 
  Erin Hendriks , MD
 
 

Wayne State University School of Medicine
Hi. My name is Erin and I am from the great state of Michigan. I attended undergrad at the University of Michigan (Go Blue) and after that went to medical school in the city of Detroit. Following medical school I moved to New York, and am enjoying living here. I was attracted to Beth Israel because I wanted to continue working with an urban underserved population like I did in medical school. At BI, I particularly enjoy the time I spend working at the clinic and all of the great people I get to work with everyday.

   

   
 
  Honore Lansen, MD
 
 

Saint George's University
Most people call me Nora.  I've traveled a circuitous route into medicine, starting as an undergraduate at Johns Hopkins, taking a detour through the humanities for several years, and following somewhat of a winding path through medical school, which included a baby at the end! I've lived in NY for many years, and sampled a multitude of neighborhoods in Manhattan, but I'm now a happy Brooklynite.

It's true, residency is a challenge, but my colleagues at BI are fabulous, smart, and supportive.  When I'm not busy complaining to them, or toiling away at the hospital, I'm savoring my time at home with my beautiful daughter and understanding husband.

   

 
 
  Rachel Roth , MD
 
 

Saba University
Hi! My name is Rachel and I'm originally from Northern NJ. After graduating from Brandeis University in Waltham, MA with a degree in psychology and a minor in Spanish and living in various locations thereafter, I am very excited to have returned to NY for residency at Beth Israel. What drew me to BI was first and most importantly the people! I did a 4th year elective here and everyone was so warm, compassionate, dedicated, and excited about the work they were doing. I immediately felt at home. Some of my interests in Family Medicine include adolescent medicine, women's health, international work, and integrative medicine. I hope to pursue an adolescent fellowship after residency and work abroad in underdeveloped nations throughout my career. Some of my other hobbies include hiking and sports, music, travel and enjoying all New York has to offer, including great restaurants, parks and museums. Please do not hesitate to email me with any questions or thoughts. My email address is rroth02@hotmail.com.
   

 
 
  Leah Rothman, MD
 
 

New York College of Osteopathic Medicine of NY Institute of Technology
Originally from West Virginia, I found my way to New York State around five years old.  I come from a large family of six kids and at last count I had fifty-three first cousins.  With my upbringing came a strong sense of values and a general interest in people.  It has been my dream to work as a Doctor my entire life.  I started this adventure at The University of Vermont followed by medical school at the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and prior to starting at Beth Israel, I complete training in Clinical Homeopathy.  If you had not already guessed I have strong interest in integrative medicine and an appreciation for how different healing modalities can complement one another in practice.  This is one of the themes that guided me to Beth Israel.
From the fast paced pulse of New York City, to the diversity of patients at our hospital and clinic, and the supportive and inspiring staff my experience has been outstanding.  Choosing the right program can be difficult, and at the end of the day, this one has a great deal to offer.  Women’s health, international health, and health care policy are some of my other interests that I look forward to exploring over the next three years.

   

 
 
  Johnathan Silberlicht, MD
 
 

Albert Einstein College of Medicine
I grew up on Long Island and went to college down in Washington D.C. where I studied business administration. After school I worked as a financial analyst and then as a software consultant before eventually deciding to pursue medicine. What attracted me to family medicine was the field’s innate holistic approach and the extraordinary and varied experience of family doctors. When I am not in the hospital I love to scuba dive, hike and row.