Our Residents
Family Medicine Residency Program
Class of 2026
Laz Akachi, MD grew up in Nigeria before moving to Hamilton, New Jersey. He completed
an undergraduate degree in Pharmacy at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Dr. Akachi completed his MD at Ross University School of Medicine. His
special interests include preventive medicine, critical care medicine,
women’s health, rural medicine, geriatrics, and complimentary medicine.
Jin Huang, MD is from Louisville, Colorado and, and graduated from The University of California Los Angeles with a BS in Biochemistry. Dr. Huang completed her medical education at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She was drawn to Family Medicine, “because I love learning about people’s stories and following their personal and medical journeys from start to finish. I hope to take care of families across multiple generations.” Dr. Huang’s specific interests in family medicine are improving health literacy and access to care, women’s health, and integrative medicine. In her spare time, she enjoys sightseeing, visiting museum exhibits and trying out new savory and sweet recipes. “Many of my family members work in the restaurant industry so I am a big foodie at heart.”
Avajé Jackson, MD, MPH, joins the residency from Jamaica, New York. She graduated from the City College of New York with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Dr. Jackson received her M.D. from St. George's University School of Medicine, where she also completed her Master of Public Health degree. She chose Family Medicine because it offers her the opportunity to provide comprehensive, continuous care to patients of all ages and backgrounds. Dr. Jackson says, “The diversity of clinical experiences in Family Medicine also allows me to address a wide range of medical issues and health needs that can improve patient health outcomes and promote overall wellness.” Dr. Jackson’s special interests within Family Medicine include outpatient medicine, sports medicine and women's health. In her spare time, she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, serving in church ministries and watching K-dramas.
Elma Joseph, MD, joined the residency from Winchester, Massachusetts. Dr. Joseph is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst Commonwealth Honors College with a BS in Microbiology. Dr. Joseph received her MD degree from St. George's School of Medicine. Dr Joseph says she chose family medicine because of the various roles she is able to play in the lives of patients- from pediatrics to geriatrics and all the stages in between. She loves the diverse range of medical conditions that family medicine encompasses, the patient-centered approach that allows her to develop long term relationships with patients, and the fact that she can treat both acute and chronic conditions, while also having opportunities for procedures! In her free time, Dr. Joseph likes to spend quality time with family and friends, trying out cute new coffee shops and bookstores, and exploring everything the Garden state has to offer!
Vadim Kashtelyan, MD, MS 2025-2026 Chief Resident, is from Baltimore, Maryland and graduated from the University of Maryland with a BA in Economics, and went on to complete a MS in Molecular Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Dr. Kashtelyan completed his medical education at Ross University School of Medicine. His medical interests include outpatient primary care and hospitalist medicine with a focus in geriatrics. Dr. Kashtelyan chose Family Medicine to gain experience in the full scope of medicine. He is passionate about building connections and thrives on a meaningful patient-doctor relationship. Dr. Kashtelyan is particularly interested in working with the elderly and helping them maintain their health and independence. Vadim enjoys being a father and going on hikes and adventures with his wife and baby boy.
Hiteshree Nayak-Badhan, DO, MS 2025-2026 Chief Resident,is a native of Princeton NJ. She graduated from Bryn Mawr College with a BA in Psychology. Dr. Nayak-Badhan went on to complete a D.O. from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. She is interested in primary care and preventive medicine.
Anika Soleyn, MD joins the residency from Wanaque, New Jersey. She received a BA in Cell Biology and Neuroscience from Rutgers University. Dr. Soleyn went on to complete her medical degree at the Ross University School of Medicine. Her interests include providing healthcare to underserved communities internationally, geriatrics and preventive medicine.
Class of 2027
Anum Ahmed, MD completed her undergraduate degree from Stony Brook University where she received a BS in Biology. Dr. Ahmed grew up in Queens, New York and graduated from St. George's University in Grenada. Passionate about community health and volunteering, Dr. Ahmed combines her professional expertise with a love for new adventures. When she's not working, you'll find her binge-watching Friends, strumming her guitar, exploring new travel spots, or hunting for the best coffee around.
Marina Anise, MD is a Staten Island, New York native. She is a graduate of Ross University School of Medicine and an alumna of Hunter College where she majored in Biochemistry and Psychology. She chose family medicine because it offers the unique opportunity to build long-term, meaningful relationships with patients and their families. Dr. Anise says, “the continuity of care allows me to see the full spectrum of person's health journey, giving me the privilege of being involved in patient's lives in a comprehensive way.” Dr Anise’s interests within Family Medicine include Outpatient Medicine, Aesthetic Medicine, and Preventative Medicine. She is passionate about fashion and beauty, self-care, spending time with family and friends, and enjoys binge watching YouTube.
Erkanda Bilali, MD, from LargoFlorida, graduated from the University of South Florida with a BS in Biology. Dr. Bilali completed her MD at St. Georges School of Medicine. Her medical special interests include sports medicine, preventive health and geriatrics.
Jose Jean Philippe, MD, originally from Haiti, is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a BS in Biology and Psychology. Dr. Jean Philippe attended medical school at St. Georges University. She chose Family Medicine because it allows her to care for patients across all age groups, from newborns to the elderly, offering a broad spectrum of care. She appreciates the continuity of care and the opportunity to build long-term relationships with families, addressing both preventive health and complex medical issues. Family Medicine provides a chance to make a significant impact on patients’ overall well-being, not just treating illness but promoting a healthier lifestyle. Dr. Jean Philippe is passionate about addressing the unique healthcare needs of women throughout their lives, from adolescence to menopause and beyond. This includes providing care in areas like reproductive health, family planning, prenatal care, and managing conditions like PCOS, menopause, and osteoporosis. She enjoys empowering women with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions about their health, ensuring they receive comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to their specific needs. Dr. Jean Philippe says, “In my spare time, I love engaging in arts and crafts, especially painting. I often find inspiration from pictures online or YouTube tutorials and recreate them on canvas—it’s my peaceful escape. I also cherish spending quality time with family and friends. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is important to me, as it keeps me grounded and refreshed.”
Akhil Patel, MD Akhil Patel, MD joined the residency from Redwood City, California where he attended the University of the Pacific, completing a BS in Bioengineering and Biochemistry. Following a career in engineering, Dr. Patel completed his medical degree at the American University of the Caribbean. He chose Family Medicine to be able to practice all aspects of medical care for all patients, so that he can be any patient’s primary caregiver and health coach. Dr. Patel is interested in global health, providing for underserved populations, health education, obstetrics and pain management. He hopes to diversify his skillset to meet patients’ needs in one visit. Dr. Patel says “I strive to try new things and meet new people so I try to find hobbies and events that encompass this goal. I am especially drawn to traveling, live music, virtually anything outdoorsy, and painting.”
Vrunda Patel, MD, a New Jersey resident from Hillsborough, attended Rutgers University as an undergraduate, obtaining a BS degree in Biological Sciences. She completed her MD at the American University of the Caribbean. Dr. Patel chose family medicine because of its holistic approach to health, which involves treating entire families and building long-term relationships to address their health needs. This specialty aligns with my broad interests and passion for comprehensive care. She is “particularly interested in women's health and child care and plan to further specialize in these areas. RWJ is the ideal place for my training due to its welcoming and collaborative environment, with a strong emphasis on obstetrics—an aspect that greatly attracted me to the program. The staff here has been incredibly supportive during my transition, and I’ve found a new family among my colleagues.” Outside of medicine, she enjoys traveling, hiking new trails, and cooking, as she is “a big foodie” who loves to cook and share meals with others.
Kaylin Sin, DO is a from East Brunswick, New Jersey and attended Rutgers University, receiving a BA degree in Biological Sciences and Psychology, and completed medical school at Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Sin describes family medicine as a little bit of everything; “as someone who appreciated all her rotations during medical school, I felt that family medicine was a good fit. I love how we get to know our patients and treat them.” She is passionate about is her two mini poodles and spending time with her loved ones. In her free time, Dr. Sin’s favorite things to do are walking her dogs, going to concerts, and listening to music.
Class of 2028
Edna Antwi, MD, MBS a resident of Bordentown, NJ, attended Rutgers University where she obtained a BS in Public Health. Dr. Antwi continued her education at Rowan University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, earning a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences. Dr. Antwi completed her medical degree at the American University of Antigua. Drawn to Family Medicine by the diversity of interests and the ability to treat and save the life of any given patient, Dr. Antwi looks forward to the opportunity to positively impact the health of people from all walks of life. Within medicine, Dr. Antwi is particularly interested in Women’s Health and Pediatrics. In her spare time, Dr. Antwi enjoys spending time with family, going out with friends, traveling and exploring different parts of the world.
Nancy Chen, DO, MHS joins the residency from New York City. A graduate of Johns Hopkins University with a BA in Public Health, Dr. Chen continued her education at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, earning a MHS in Environmental Health. Dr. Chen completed medical school at Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She chose Family Medicine for the opportunity to work with patients of all ages. She is especially interested in working with older adults. Dr. Chen’s special interests include primary care, preventive medicine, geriatric medicine and palliative care. Outside of medicine, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, testing dessert recipes, going out for walks and exploring new restaurants.
Safi Khattab, MD is from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He earned a BS in Biology from Temple University, and went on to earn his medical degree from St. Georges University School of Medicine. Dr. Khattab was drawn to Family Medicine because of its focus on whole-person care and meaningful relationships built over time. Family Medicine allows him to combine his interests in women’s health, sports medicine and global medicine, while staying grounded in community-based care. Dr. Khattab says, “it’s a field where I can practice with versatility, advocate for my patients and make a lasting impact across all stages of life.” Outside of medicine, Dr. Khattab is a former chef who still loves to cook and explore new cuisines. He is passionate about fitness and was a competitive swimmer, so staying active through swimming and going to the gym are important parts of his routine. Dr. Khattab loves being in nature and has a deep appreciation for travel. Having visited over 30 countries, he feels those experiences have shaped his worldview and how he connects with people. These passions have fueled his commitment to holistic, compassionate care and help him bring balance and curiosity to both his personal and professional life.
Chihurumnanya Okpechi, MD, MPH, joined the residency from Boston, Massachusetts. She completed her medical degree as well as a Masters of Public Health from St. Georges University School of Medicine. Dr. Okpechi states, “Family medicine stood out during my clinical rotations because it envisioned the community-focused compassionate care that most communities need. I find the opportunity to focus on disease prevention extremely rewarding to me and the patients alike.” Dr. Okpechi finds the variety of what her practice can look like after residency to be a bonus, whether the focus is on procedures, inpatient medicine outpatient medicine or both. Within medicine, Dr. Okpechi is interested in community medicine, lifestyle medicine, outpatient care, dermatology and OB/GYN. In her spare time, she loves to go to music concerts, plan small family events, spend time in nature and try out new restaurants with family and friends.
Uma Sankaramanchi, DO from South Plainfield, NJ, completed his undergraduate degree at Rutgers University, earning a BA in Cell Biology and Neuroscience. Dr. Sankaramanchi went on to earn his medical degree from the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Sankaramanchi’s desire to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care grounded in solid relationships, preventive medicine and holistic treatment is what drew him to Family Medicine. He is particularly interested in Sports Medicine, and likes to play and watch basketball and go hiking with friends in his spare time.
Fatima Warraich, MD originally from Toronto, Canada, received her BSc degree in Biology from York University, going on to complete her medical degree at Ross University School of Medicine. Dr. Warraich was drawn to Family Medicine for the opportunity to build meaningful, lasting relationships with her patients. She finds it deeply rewarding to earn their trust and to be part of their healthcare journey. Dr. Warraich loves that Family Medicine lets her work with people of all ages and backgrounds in a dynamic way while allowing her to develop in many areas of care. Dr. Warraich says,” At its core, Family Medicine is about more than just treating illness; it’s a way to create lasting, positive change, and I feel privileged to be part of that.” Within medicine, Dr. Warraich is interested in Women’s Health, Global Health and Integrative and Holistic Medicine. Outside of medicine, she likes a blend of creative and outdoor activities including abstract painting, pottery, reading to explore new ideas, growing plants, biking and traveling whenever she gets the chance.
Osama Zidat, MD is a New Jersey native from Clifton. Dr. Zidat received his undergraduate degree from the New Jersey Institute of Technology with a BA in Biology. He completed medical school at Ross University School of Medicine. Dr. Zidat pursued Family Medicine because of his interest in the continuity of care. Within medicine, Dr. Zidat is interested in Sports Medicine, and enjoys spending time outdoors in his spare time.