Falls are one of the common caused of injuries among seniors, and preventing them is a big aspect in having a high quality of life as we age. Here we offer five tips to reduce the risk of falls for seniors, empowering them to live safely and independently. Remember, fall prevention is about taking future steps today to ensure a healthier tomorrow.
1. Home Safety Check
Perform regular safety checks to minimize fall risk in the home. Things to consider include:
Make sure you have clear pathways free from clutter.
Securing carpets to the floor and removing throw rugs.
Installing grab bars and handrails in key areas such as bathrooms and stairwells.
By setting up your home to suit you, you can lower the risk of accidentally falling.
2. Regular Physical Activity
Doing exercises that focus on strength and balance can greatly improve stability and reduce the risk of falls. Consider activities like:
Walking
Tai Chi
Gentle yoga
Talk to your healthcare provider to create a customized exercise program that’s right for you.
3. Vision and Hearing Checks
Both vision and hearing add to balance and spatial awareness. To help prevent falls:
Have regular check-ups for glasses or contact lens prescriptions.
Make sure your hearing aids are correctly adjusted.
Staying current with these health checks is key in keeping your balance in check.
4. Medication Management
Some medications can affect balance and increase the risk of falling. It’s important to:
Review medications regularly with a doctor or pharmacist.
Be mindful of any side effects that could impact your stability.
Knowing what affects your medications have on your balance can help you stay steady on your feet.
5. Practical Footwear
Proper footwear is a must for stability. When choosing shoes, look for:
Non-skid soles
Adequate support
A correct fit
Avoid walking in just socks, as this can increase the risk of slipping.
By adding these tips into your daily routine, you can create a safer living environment and reduce the risk of falls. Remember, prevention is the best protection, and making small changes can make a big difference in your overall health and well-being. Want to learn more about other resources? Check out our other blog posts for more advice and recipes.
It’s your life. Live it your way.
WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and personalized support to help you age well at home and in your community. Our Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) meets the changing needs of seniors, often at no cost. To see if you qualify, visit: welbehealth.com/contact
Our thyroid health is a pivotal factor in our overall well-being. By following these tips and maintaining regular communication with your doctor, you can support a healthy thyroid even as you age.
https://welbehealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/pexels-paloma-gil-16204310-scaled.jpg17072560Cristal Gonzalezhttps://welbehealthweb.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/WelbeHealth_Logo.pngCristal Gonzalez2024-01-19 15:08:082024-01-19 15:08:09Understanding Thyroid Health for Seniors
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) meets the need for integrated health services in Santa Clara County and southern Alameda County, a diverse community with thousands of PACE eligible seniors.
New center extends WelbeHealth’s collaboration with Sutter Health to underserved communities in San Jose and surrounding areas
See photos of WelbeHealth’s new San Jose PACE center here
Today, the physician-led senior health services provider WelbeHealth, in partnership with Northern California-based health care system Sutter Health, announced the opening of a new Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) center in San Jose. The new center will provide essential health care and wrap-around services to diverse low-income older adults. WelbeHealth San Jose is now enrolling new participants, with services set to begin January 1, 2024.
WelbeHealth San Jose Center Physical Therapy RoomWelbeHealth San Jose Center Living and Social Room
“We are excited to work with our Sutter Health partners to serve the most vulnerable seniors with better quality and compassion in the San Jose area,” said Si France, MD, CEO at WelbeHealth. “Through this expansion, we are ensuring that matriarchs and patriarchs can age in place and thrive in their communities.”
Sutter Health is one of the largest health systems serving Northern California’s Medi-Cal eligible population and has partnered with WelbeHealth to improve healthcare for underserved seniors.
“WelbeHealth provides nursing-home eligible seniors with the wrap-around services they need to remain safely at home in our communities,” said Kevin Cook, Greater Silicon Valley Market President at Sutter Health. “San Jose is home to a rapidly growing aging population that will benefit from greater access to PACE.”
Over 4,000 PACE eligible seniors reside within 15 miles of the San Jose location, and the population of these seniors is anticipated to increase. The California Department of Aging forecasts that Santa Clara County’s senior population will surge by over 200% by 2060, while Alameda County’s senior population is expected to increase by 150% by the same year.
“Many seniors in San Jose have been left out of the region’s broader economic growth. It’s difficult for low-income older adults to make ends meet and get the care they need amidst high rent, home care labor shortages and stretched family caregivers. WelbeHealth and Sutter Health are committed to delivering the PACE model, ensuring vulnerable seniors are not left behind,” said Vaneesh Soni, MD, Chief Growth Officer at WelbeHealth.
PACE is a proven, high-quality, cost-effective solution to address the care gaps left by the underfunded and patchwork system for long-term care in San Jose and across the United States by delivering comprehensive health and supportive services for seniors. The price for long-term care is expected to reach half a trillion dollars a year by 2030, yet the current infrastructure cannot support this growth and the United States lags behind most other wealthy countries in long-term care investment. PACE is one obvious solution because it delivers better health outcomes at a lower cost.
WelbeHealth is committed to addressing the long-term healthcare crisis for low-income seniors through PACE expansion. In addition to San Jose, WelbeHealth operates programs across California, including Modesto, Stockton, Fresno, Pasadena, Long Beach, North Hollywood, and Rosemead. All locations deliver fully integrated care, allowing frail seniors to age in place with the support of interdisciplinary teams, including doctors and nurses, physical therapists, home care aides, and social workers. Wrap-around support like meals, social activities, and transportation address social determinants of health.
About WelbeHealth WelbeHealth is a physician-led public benefit company founded in 2015 that provides comprehensive health care services for seniors through a fully integrated program that includes all medical and dental care, physical and occupational therapy, transportation to medical appointments, meals, and personal care services. WelbeHealth addresses social determinants of health to keep the most vulnerable seniors living safely in their own homes. Services are delivered through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), a national Medicare and Medicaid program.
About Sutter Health Sutter Health’s integrated, not-for-profit system of associated clinicians, employees and volunteers supports more than 3 million patients in diverse communities across two dozen counties. Headquartered in Northern California, Sutter provides access to high-quality, affordable care through its hospitals, medical foundations, ambulatory surgery centers, urgent and walk-in care centers, telehealth, home health and hospice services. As part of its commitment to improving community health, Sutter invested $899 million in the community in 2022 – this amount includes traditional charity, the unreimbursed costs of providing care to Medi-Cal patients and investments in community health programs.
https://welbehealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/SlavaBlazerPhotography_60-1500x430-1-scaled.jpg7342560Cristal Gonzalezhttps://welbehealthweb.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/WelbeHealth_Logo.pngCristal Gonzalez2023-12-13 09:28:332023-12-15 11:59:02WelbeHealth Opens Bay Area PACE Center Serving Vulnerable Seniors
Living with depression can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. This is how to ask for help with depression.
Are you experiencing a loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy? Do you have feelings of sadness and hopelessness or difficulty sleeping? If so, you may be struggling with depression.
As we get older, life can become more lonely and it may leave you feeling lost.
Living with this disorder can be challenging, especially if you don’t know how to ask for help with depression. You might feel it’s not worth reaching out to someone.
If this describes you in any way, keep reading. This article discusses depression, the symptoms, and how to ask for help so you don’t have to feel this way any longer.
What Is Depression?
Depression, also called depressive disorder, is a mental disorder. It’s common and is characterized by an all-encompassing sadness or negative view of life. Depression affects how you think and act, leading to various emotional and physical problems that interfere with daily functioning.
Depression can occur at any age; however, it begins more commonly as an adult. There are several types of depression, such as:
Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities
Changes in appetite
Changes in weight
Trouble sleeping
Excess fatigue
Feelings of worthlessness
Feelings of guilt
Difficulty concentrating
Thoughts of suicide or suicide ideation
How to Ask for Help With Depression
Depression as a senior is manageable if you seek treatment. A medical professional will typically prescribe an antidepressant and possibly a mood stabilizer. If you’re unsure of how to ask for help with depression, there are a few things you can try.
Find a Trusted Person
Identify a trusted person with whom you can confide in. This can be a family member, friend, pastor, etc.
Be Open and Honest
When you sit down and chat with a trusted person, you must be open and honest about your feelings. Ask them if they’re willing to help you through this difficult time.
Seek Professional Depression Treatment
If you need help seeking professional help, ask someone you trust to help find a professional or accompany you to one. A professional will have the necessary experience to help.
Help Is Around the Corner
Living with depression can be challenging as a senior, but it’s not something you have to battle alone. If you’re unsure how to ask for help with depression, ask someone you trust if they’re willing to listen.
You want to choose the right time to ask, and when they accept, be honest with how you feel. Professional help is strongly recommended wherever possible to assist with medications if necessary.
WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and personalized support to help you age well at home and in your community. Our Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) meets the changing needs of seniors, often at no cost. Many of our centers have support groups available to help you through your difficult times. To learn more visit: www.welbehealth.com/contact/
https://welbehealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/pexels-max-smirnov-6851644-scaled.jpg25602048Cristal Gonzalezhttps://welbehealthweb.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/WelbeHealth_Logo.pngCristal Gonzalez2023-07-31 14:13:002023-12-21 17:42:59How to Ask for Help With Depression: A Guide for Seniors
As the summer heat approaches, everyone loves to head outside and enjoy the outdoors after months of being cooped up indoors. However, the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can cause serious skin damage and lead to different types of skin cancer. For seniors, sun safety is essential to avoid skin damage and protect themselves from excessive heat. Let’s discuss some important tips and tricks on how seniors can stay safe in the sun.
Wear Sun-Protective Clothing One of the easiest ways for seniors to stay safe in the sun is to wear sun-protective clothing. This includes wearing long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and other clothing that will keep your skin protected from the sun. Look for fabrics that are lightweight, moisture-wicking, and provide UV protection. Opt for clothes that cover your arms and legs as much as possible to minimize sun exposure.
Apply Sunscreen Regularly Sunscreen is a must regardless of age. Seniors should choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen liberally at least 30 minutes before you go outside and reapply it every two hours or more often if you sweat or swim. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your ears, back of the neck, hands, and feet. These areas are often overlooked but can be severely affected by harmful UV rays.
Avoid Peak Sun Hours Typically, the sun’s UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seniors should avoid being outside during these peak hours or plan outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense. Even on cloudy or overcast days, it’s essential to stay cautious and wear sun-protective clothing and sunscreen.
Stay Hydrated Staying hydrated is essential in the summer heat, especially for seniors. Make sure to drink plenty of water even if you don’t feel thirsty. Carry a water bottle with you at all times when you’re outside and avoid sugary drinks like soda or energy drinks. Dehydration can quickly set in, making you feel dizzy or nauseous, and can lead to heat exhaustion.
Seek Shade and Cool Off Lastly, if you start to feel overheated or uncomfortable in the sun, it’s important to seek shade and cool off. Find a shady spot under a tree or bring a parasol or umbrella with you. Take breaks regularly, go indoors to an air-conditioned room, or take a dip in the pool or ocean to cool off.
Sun safety is essential for seniors, and following these tips can help keep them safe and protected when enjoying the outdoors. Wearing sun-protective clothing, applying sunscreen, avoiding peak sun hours, staying hydrated, and seeking shade are all simple and easy ways to avoid harmful UV rays. Being proactive about sun safety can help seniors reduce their risk of skin damage and keep them healthy and happy all summer long.
Seniors deserve to have access to the greatest care possible. Learn more about PACE so you can improve the quality of your life.
https://welbehealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Untitled-design-7.png9241640Cristal Gonzalezhttps://welbehealthweb.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/WelbeHealth_Logo.pngCristal Gonzalez2023-06-30 15:32:002023-07-17 15:33:30Stay Safe in the Sun – A Guide for Seniors
Making regular eye care a priority can be life-changing. Eleven million Americans need help with their vision, and technology has improved drastically in recent years. Eye exams can prevent trouble by alerting your doctor to health conditions you didn’t know you had and prevent vision loss. The typical eye exam is fast, simple, and pain-free.
What is a basic eye exam?
Just by taking a few simple eye images, a doctor can get an early glimpse of eye diseases and use treatments to preserve your vision or restore what you may have already lost. The first step is usually a dilated eye exam given by an optometrist. The test measures eye alignment, eye movement, visual sharpness, and depth perception. New technology offers an alternative to dilated eye exams. Sometimes, a doctor will snap a simple picture of your pupil, allowing them to see as far inside as they need without eye drops.
“Eye exams can also highlight other health issues. If we can see trouble coming, we can treat it faster and get ahead of it,” says Otashe Golden, MD, Regional Medical Director at WelbeHealth.
Many people, when they try on a new pair of glasses, suddenly see clearly and realize how out of focus the world had become. “Most of us have experienced it – and it can be scary,” says Dr. Golden. “One day you can read street signs perfectly well, and the next, you are driving on the highway at night and can’t find your exit.”
Many eye diseases are relatively common and can go unnoticed for a long time, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration.
Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults
Diabetes patients are at higher risk for glaucoma and cataracts. Diabetic retinopathy — scarring on the retina’s blood vessels — can happen due to high blood sugar levels and is the leading cause of blindness in American adults. Diabetic retinopathy is also the most preventable cause of blindness. By seeing an eye doctor, early detection and treatment can prevent or delay blindness. For most people with diabetes, there can be very little treatment available if the diagnosis comes too late.
How often do you need an eye exam?
How often should you get an eye exam depends on certain factors. For people with diabetes, it is recommended to get an eye exam every year. On the other hand, individuals who are African American and aged 40 years and older, Mexican Americans who are 60 years or older, and those with a family history of glaucoma should have an eye exam at least every two years.
Wear sunglasses that block out 99% to 100% of UA and UVB sunlight.
Don’t smoke.
Use protective eyewear to avoid injury.
If you are reading on a screen, be sure to take frequent breaks to give your eyes a rest.
Pay attention to symptoms of eye trouble.
Call your family doctor, nurse, or eye doctor if you notice eye symptoms such as:
Difficulty seeing or double vision
Redness of the eye or pain in the eye
Flashes of light
Floaters (specks look like they float in front of you)
Circles/halos around lights
https://welbehealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/pexels-karolina-grabowska-5201873-scaled.jpg17072560Cristal Gonzalezhttps://welbehealthweb.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/WelbeHealth_Logo.pngCristal Gonzalez2023-02-28 17:45:002023-02-28 17:45:36The Importance of Regular Eye Care
Physician-led healthcare organization WelbeHealth and Northern California-based healthcare network Sutter Health have opened a new center in Modesto that serves medically frail seniors.
Located at 1224 Scenic Drive, the center is designated a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) alternative care setting. Integrated with WelbeHealth and Sutter’s PACE center in Stockton, the new Modesto location provides day services to PACE-eligible medically frail seniors age 55 and over. The center, which will employ more than 100 full- and part-time employees when at capacity, features:
Physical and occupational therapy
Personal care and supportive services
Meals and nutritional counseling
Recreational therapy
Access to in-home care and mobile clinic
The new Modesto center addresses a community need, since only a fraction of the over 3,000 PACE-eligible seniors in Stanislaus county are receiving PACE services, according to a WelbeHealth analysis of U.S. Census data and the Medi-Cal Managed Care Enrollment Report.
“WelbeHealth was built on the mission of serving our most vulnerable seniors with greater quality and compassion in underserved communities,” said WelbeHealth CEO Si France, M.D. “As the first provider of PACE services in Modesto since 2019, we are proud to complement our care with a beautiful facility.”
PACE is a national Medicare and Medicaid program that helps keep seniors living in their own homes instead of nursing homes. PACE programs are proven to reduce depression, lower hospitalizations, decrease rehospitalizations, reduce nursing home admissions and improve preventive care, according to recent data from the National PACE Association.
“We are proud to partner with WelbeHealth to enrich the lives of seniors, their caregivers and the broader community,” said Christopher Stanley, M.D., Sutter Health’s chief population health officer. “WelbeHealth shares our commitment to high-quality, community-based healthcare services that help frail older adults anticipate problems and prevent hospitalization or early entry into a nursing home.”
Todd Smith, M.D., foundation area CEO for Sutter Health in the South Valley, said that the importance of good health for aging seniors can’t be underestimated.
“Creating greater access to comprehensive home and community-based healthcare services helps seniors achieve their best health and maintain their independence,” Dr. Smith said.
In addition to the new Modesto center, WelbeHealth has locations in Stockton, Pasadena, Long Beach and Fresno. More than 1,500 seniors were served in 2021. Sutter Health is a not-for-profit integrated health network that serves more than 3 million people in 22 California counties.
Enjoying the warm weather is one of the delights of summer. However, it is important to practice Ultraviolet (UV) light safety. For seniors and others, this means limiting your exposure to the sun’s harmful rays, which can cause skin damage and lead to skin cancer. Around 90% of the signs of skin aging are caused by the sun. Those who have accumulated the most exposure to UV rays over the years are – you guessed it – seniors.
July is UV Safety Month. Using better UV protection can protect your skin from harm. And there are even ways to reverse some damage. Use these simple tips:
UV Safety for Seniors – Go By the Clock
UV protection is most important between 10 am and 4 pm because the sun’s harmful rays are the strongest between these hours. Aim for early morning or evening if you can plan your time outside. If you must be outside mid-day, try to stay in the shade.
The Best UV Safe Sunscreen for Seniors
Not all sunscreen is equal for UV protection. Choose one that has an SPF of 30 or higher. UVA and UVB sun rays both damage skin cells. Read the label to make sure your sunscreen has “broad spectrum” or “UVA and UVB” printed on the bottle.
Using SPF Correctly
Apply your sunscreen 20 minutes before sun exposure for it to work best. Re-apply sunscreen every 2 hours and after you sweat or swim. People with fair skin, especially those with light-colored eyes and hair, accumulate sun damage more easily and should use UV protection carefully. You can take a quick quiz to find your skin type here.
Reverse Years of Damage
Even if you have had many sunburns or avoided using sunscreen over the years, you can reverse the damage using new technology. Creams or gels with retinoids can help to remove precancerous lesions. Ask your doctor about these topical medications.
Beyond Sunscreen
You have options for protection in addition to sunscreen. Some clothing is designed to protect your skin from the sun. A long-sleeved shirt, long pants, sunglasses that filter UV rays, and a hat with a wide brim can offer protection. Remember also to protect yourself from heat stress during the summer months.
Skin Changes with Age – Lifestyle Matters
Our skin thins as we age. This can weaken the skin’s defenses to UV light. Proper sun protection for seniors, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking and pollution can help prevent skin diseases.
Watch for Skin Changes
Be aware of any suspicious growths on your skin. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a self-examination once a month. You can find out how to do one here. Visit your dermatologist once a year to check for skin cancer. Bring questions about anything you have noticed that has changed size, is new, or has an irregular border. Also, if you have a growth that causes crusting, irritation, or bleeding, tell your doctor right away.
Remember: skin cancer is among the most treatable cancers. So do your best to catch it early. Enjoy the sunshine safely this summer.
https://welbehealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/senior-woman-applying-sunscreen-her-arm-scaled.jpg17942560Cristal Gonzalezhttps://welbehealthweb.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/WelbeHealth_Logo.pngCristal Gonzalez2022-07-15 13:48:162022-07-15 13:48:52Best UV Safety for Seniors: Keep it Simple with These Tips
Forming friendships as you age can sometimes be challenging. When you were a child, making friends may have come easily. A simple, “Can we be friends?” often brought us a dedicated playmate. If only it were that easy to make friends in our adult years!
Forming friendships can be more difficult as an adult, but it is still important. Researchers have discovered major benefits of maintaining friendships as we age. Below, we’ll fill you in on the power of friendship and share some tips on how to make friends as you get older.
Friends Add Years to Your Life
Want to live longer? Form close friendships as you age! An Australian study found that close relationships with family members had little impact on longevity. But people with the most friends outlived those with the fewest by 22%.
Keeping a close circle of friends also alleviates loneliness. In this study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, social isolation and loneliness were predictors of functional decline and death in those 60 years and older.
Not only do your friends add years to your life, but you also do the same for them. So when you’re spending time with friends, you can remind them of your life-extending superpower, and thank them for extending your life in return.
“You don’t have to be the life of the party, but this study supports the theory that maintaining strong social networks seems to be linked to slower cognitive decline,” author Emily Rogalski, an associate professor at Northwestern, said in a press release.
Next time you call up a friend for lunch, remember that it will be a great social activity and benefit your brain!
How to Create Friendships as You Age
Get Involved in Your Community
There are opportunities to make friends right in your community. Your new friends may be waiting for you just a few blocks away. Here are ways to meet new people near you:
Making new friends as adults can feel awkward. One of the best things you can do is accept that it may feel a little unnatural at first. Like any new relationship, it takes a while to feel comfortable.
Studies suggest that it takes several months to form a close friendship. Continue to ask engaging questions and get together on a regular basis. If you keep trying despite being a little uncomfortable, you’re bound to have budding friendships.
Become a WelbeHealth Participant
WelbeHealth participants enjoy the benefits of companionship and participate in activities that can help make you less likely to suffer from depression. WelbeHealth helps seniors live independently in their homes and communities and provides opportunities to socialize with new friends.
At WelbeHealth, friends:
Play dominoes, Bingo, and other games
Talk about common interests such as music and books
Share a bowl of popcorn while watching HBO movies
Eat meals together and swap favorite recipes
Support and check in on one another
Contact us today to see if you might qualify for WelbeHealth’s all-inclusive care for seniors.
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Becca is a seasoned healthcare operations leader, having served most recently as COO of the Optum Home-Based Medical Care business. She joined Optum as part of Landmark Health, the nation’s largest provider of in-home value-based care, which she initially joined in 2015. As the first central operations hire at Landmark, Becca built and led teams across the operations function, supporting significant growth during her tenure there. Prior to Landmark, Becca worked in healthcare strategy consulting and global health. She holds a BA in Anthropology from Stanford and an MBA from Yale. She lives in Seattle with her husband, two sons and their cat.
Tam Dinh, NP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Rosemead Education: University of California, Los Angeles, California State University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Vietnamese
“Treat people how you would want them to treat you. It comes down to respecting human values—just giving or getting that respect from each other.”
With 15 years of experience, Tam has a wealth of knowledge and skills. She has served as a nurse in a variety of clinical settings, including hospitals and clinics. Prior to joining WelbeHealth, she served as a Nurse Practitioner in psychiatry. She is passionate about helping participants and their families within the community. She delivers high-quality, patient-centered care that makes a difference in her patients’ lives.
When she isn’t seeing participants at WelbeHealth, she enjoys spending time with her family.
Danielle Basurco, MD
Role: Associate Medical Director Location: North Hollywood Education: Ross University School of Medicine Residency: UCSF Fresno – Family & Community Medicine Board Certification: American Board of Family Medicine Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
“My love for seniors started with loving and caring for my grandmother and trying to find ways for her to live her best life. Our seniors are living books full of experiences from which we can all benefit. They need love and support to thrive. Each senior has a unique set of vulnerabilities and goals that need to be identified and supported. It is a privilege now to help form part of that loving support team.”
When not working I enjoy… working on my chili pepper and tomato garden with my family and creating delicious meals with them and for them. I enjoy family time, hiking and collecting gnomes.
Kimberly Chen, DO, MPH
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Rosemead Education: Touro School of Osteopathic Medicine, Harlem, NY Residency: CarePoint Health – Christ Hospital Board Certification: Family Medicine and Geriatric Medicine Languages Spoken: English, Mandarin Chinese
“Taking care of the elderly is a privilege. Each care plan should
be customized to the complex individual that it’s created for
to treat their specific combination of issues.”
Dr. Chen grew up in the San Gabriel Valley. She loves taking care of older patients because they’ve lived long lives and have so many stories to tell. Dr. Chen understands that seniors’ stories and experiences can directly influence the care that they hope to receive.
Dr. Chen creates an individualized plan of care for each person, taking into account their caregivers, their social lives, and other factors that go into their care outside of purely medicine. She approaches each patient as a whole person and ensures every aspect is being treated.
When she isn’t seeing participants, Dr. Chen loves to read and plan her next vacation.
Role: Associate Medical Director Location: Modesto Education: Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine at University of Iowa Residency: UCSF-Family and Community Medicine Board Certification: Internal Medicine Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
“What motivates me to work in medicine is the sense of fulfillment I feel when I am helping others.”
Dr. Rubio has a heartwarming passion for working with seniors because of the wonderful connection they share. He takes joy in teaching them about their health and collaborating to improve their well-being. In return, they teach him invaluable lessons about life, family, and aging with grace. These relationships bring happiness and fulfillment to both Dr. Rubio and his patients.
When he’s not working, he takes pleasure in spending quality time with his wife and two children, along with staying active through exercise and cycling.
Role: Physician Location: Pasadena Medical Degree: David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Residency: UCSF-Family and Community Medicine Board Certification: Family Medicine Languages Spoken: English, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin
“I love working with seniors because they are so vibrant and full of unique life experiences.”
Dr. Tam strives to understand the world his participants come from because it is only by doing so, that he can then provide the holistic care they deserve.
When Dr. Tam is not working, he enjoys spending time with my family, swimming, and the occasional round of golf.
Participant Book
Bindu Purushothaman
Chief Information Officer
Bindu Purushothaman leads our technology development efforts, creating seamless tools that allow our team members to focus on caring for participants. Ms. Purushothaman transforms technology for healthcare organizations, most recently as Chief Information Officer at Satellite Health, following technology leadership roles in several value-based care organizations.
Amy Shin
Chief Mission Officer
Amy Shin is an advocate for equitable healthcare, with expertise in Medicare, Medicaid, dual-eligible, long-term care, and commercial health care. She brings strength in strategic planning, improving operational efficiencies, and innovating to advance healthcare. Most recently, Ms. Shin served as CEO of Health Plan of San Joaquin, where she oversaw healthcare delivery to underserved areas of California.
Michael Le, M.D.
Chief Medical Officer
Michael Le, MD, oversees our healthcare teams to ensure we provide the highest standards of care. Dr. Le most recently served as Chief Medical Officer of Optum Home and Community Care. Previously, Dr. Le co-founded and served as Chief Medical Officer of Landmark Health, where he pioneered a new care model that provided physician-led, multidisciplinary house calls to frail seniors.
Cathy Fraser (she/her/hers)
Chief People Officer
Cathy Fraser leads the people strategies and services that fuel the fulfilment and expansion of WelbeHealth’s mission. Previously, she led human resources at Mayo Clinic and Tenet Healthcare. Cathy’s passion is addressing difficult challenges using data-driven analysis, innovative thinking and an employee-centric approach.
Sabrina Katigbak, NP
Role: Nurse Practitioner Location: Long Beach Education: California State University Long Beach Board Certification: Adult Gerontology Languages Spoken: English, Tagalog
“I love working with seniors because they remind me of my parents! Working with this vulnerable population reminds me of how crucial our role is as primary care providers and our ability to grow their health literacy which in turn, hopefully, allows them to live healthier longer.”
When she isn’t at WelbeHealth, Sabrina enjoys going to the gym, trying new food, and working on crafts with her Cricut.
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Long Beach Education: Brandman University, Doctor of Nursing Practice Board Certification: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACACNP-BC) from American Nurses Credentialing Center Languages Spoken: English, Thai & Spanish
“Seniors have a lifetime of wisdom and experience to share. I value taking the time to get to know and understand each of my patients and work with them to make sure they’re happy and healthy, physically and mentally.”
When she’s not working, Jacqueline enjoys being with her loved ones, fur-babies, and friends. She loves going on food adventures, enjoying the sunshine, arts & crafts, home renovation and design.
Role: Medical Director Location: Long Beach Medical Degree: The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Residency: Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center Department of Family Medicine Board Certification: Family Medicine Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
“I treat the entire person. I see how everything works together to make someone feel better and healthy. Part of my philosophy is to address the spiritual and emotional, as well as physical.”
With 15 years of experience as a family medicine specialist, Dr. Villalba listens to her patients and provides compassionate, personalized care. The fulfillment she gets from talking to her patients reinforces her belief that she chose the right career. Dr. Villalba regularly volunteers at the Huntington Beach Senior Center, where she enjoys gaining wisdom from the elderly and serving her community.
When she isn’t seeing participants at WelbeHealth, Dr. Villalba loves surfing and practicing mixed martial arts.
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Long Beach Education: Kennesaw State University Board Certification: American Nurses Credentialing Center Languages Spoken: English
“My philosophy is to grow with my patients through whatever they’re going through and be there to help a person live their best life.”
Kathy has been caring for patients for 25 years. She also brings her experience to the classroom, having been a nursing instructor for several colleges. Kathy is enthusiastic about providing comprehensive care to the elderly, especially those with chronic and complex conditions. Her priority is to ensure that her patients and their families get the care and support they need.
When she isn’t at WelbeHealth, you can probably find her walking along the beach or trying out some really good food with her husband.
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Long Beach Education: California State University Bakersfield, California State University Long Beach, UC Irvine Board Certification: American Nurses Credentialing Center Languages Spoken: English
“I have a passion for seniors. I feel like I can make a difference by spending a little more time with them and seeing them from a whole person perspective.”
Megan has provided care in various settings over the last 15 years, working in clinics, telehealth, home health and skilled nursing facilities. Her experience and dedication shine at WelbeHealth. She is compassionate about patients of all ages, but seniors hold a special place in her heart. She provides the education, resources and support that her patients need to stay active and healthy.
Megan loves being in nature and sharing a meal with her family and friends.
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Long Beach Education: Laurea University of Applied Sciences, California State University, Long Beach Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Russian
“I respect all my patients and make sure they’re part of the decision-making process. It’s one way to encourage them to participate in their own care.”
Chioma is a passionate and dedicated Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with five years of nursing experience in critical and transitional care. She is known for taking new hires and students under her wing, teaching them what she’s learned.
Chioma treasures time with her two daughters and is a bookworm, enjoying literature, history books and biographies.
Si France is a mission driven physician entrepreneur. Most recently, he was founder and CEO of GoHealth, which operates over 200 urgent care centers in collaboration with leading non-profit health systems across the country, delivering award winning quality and patient experience. He is also a Health Commissioner for San Mateo County’s 145,000 member Medicaid plan.
Dr. Sepideh Chegini is a physician leader, with vast experience in value-based care delivery and passionate about serving seniors with complex needs through integrated, high-quality, and innovative care. Previously, she was the Senior Medical Officer at CareMore Health leading the institutional Special Needs Plans nationally, driving ongoing improvements in care delivery, clinical outcomes, and growth of the program. Dr. Chegini obtained her Bachelor of Science degree magna cum laude from the University of Washington and went on to study medicine at the University of Rochester, where she developed her passion for the bio-psycho-social medicine model and palliative care. She trained in internal medicine at the George Washington University, where she came to recognize her life’s mission of caring for individuals with medical and psychosocial complexities.
Maily Vang
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Fresno Education: Samuel Merritt University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Hmong
“I love working with seniors because there’s nothing more rewarding than walking into a room full of elderly people smiling and knowing you’re the part of the reason why.”
Maily values taking the time to connect with her patients. She works to meaningfully impact the lives of her patients and bring joy to their days.
When she’s not working, Maily enjoys spending time with her loved ones. “The most important thing in the world is family and love.” -John Wooden
Sukhvinder Kaur
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Stockton Education: United States University, San Diego Board Certification: Family Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC Languages Spoken: English, Hindi, Punjabi
“I love working with the elderly to see them become independent in their own homes.” Sukhvinder enjoys supporting her patients and creating a personal connection. She finds working with the elderly to be rewarding, and especially appreciates hearing about her patients’ lives.
When she’s not working, Sukhvinder enjoys spending time with family, traveling, camping, and cooking.
Blaire Bernard, JD
General Counsel
Blaire Bernard, JD, is an experienced healthcare lawyer who has focused her career on supporting providers whose mission is to expand access to value-based care. Prior to joining WelbeHealth, Blaire served as General Counsel and Compliance Officer of Iora Health, where she built the legal operations and partnered with business leaders in scaling the compliance program.
Vaneesh Soni, MD
Chief Development Officer
Dr. Vaneesh Soni focuses on expanding the reach and impact of innovative care models to benefit large patient populations at scale. Most recently, he was the Chief Strategy Officer for Imaging Advantage, prior to which he was at McKinsey and Company.
Jillian Simon, LCSW
Executive Director
Jillian Simon has spent over 15 years focused on improving geriatric services with an emphasis on patient centered care. As veteran PACE and adult day health care executive, Jillian is passionate about promoting health, independence, and an overall increased quality of life for seniors and their families.
Richard Gurley’s professional passion is improving quality of service and reducing costs in the US healthcare system. That passion has taken him through leadership roles in Tennessee government, McKinsey consulting, and most recently Evolent Health.
Sophia is a passionate health care leader with an expertise in senior care operations. She was at the helm of AltaMed’s ADHC and PACE growth and expansion for over 18 years. She believes in loving PACE participants and developing future leaders.
Ethan Epstein is passionate about delivering higher value healthcare in the US. To him, that means better clinical outcomes at a lower cost for patients. Most recently he was at Evolent Health, where he teamed with providers to enable their transition in value-based care.
Robert is an experienced managed care leader and was most recently the CEO of On Lok, the originator of the PACE model of care. He also founded CalPACE, the first state association for PACE organizations. He actively pursues better solutions in senior housing and health care.
Elizabeth Carty is an expert in the highly successful PACE model of care. As a former Director of On Lok PACEpartners Consulting and former COO of the Center for Elders’ Independence, Elizabeth has spent 20 years launching new centers and leading and improving existing PACE organizations. Ensuring dignity for seniors is a core value for Elizabeth.
Kendell has served as both a Teaching Attending and a Hospice Medical Director. She recently completed a prestigious fellowship at Stanford University with a focus on “Redesigning Care for People in Late Life.” She believes in focusing on her patient’s life goals to maximize their health and well-being.
Dr. Matt Patterson is dedicated to improving the value, accessibility, and experience of healthcare for all people and their caregivers. He’s led market changing innovation across clinical, operational, and technology domains with AirStrip, McKinsey & Company, and the United States Navy.
A dynamic and team-oriented senior-level professional with 23 years of experience leading and developing healthcare programs in a non-profit health care/social service setting. Recognized for goal-oriented organizational leadership and successful track record of delivering high quality services and positive customer satisfaction.
Amy Shin
Senior Advisor
Amy Shin is a passionate advocate for equitable healthcare, especially for vulnerable populations. Amy has deep Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care, and commercial health care and managed care experiences. Amy was previously a CEO of Health Plan of San Joaquin, the CAO of On Lok Senior Health Services (the founding PACE organization), and a principal with a nationwide consulting firm, Health Management Associates.
Sam Wald
Chief Operating Officer
Sam Wald is an experienced healthcare operations leader, specializing in value-based care for seniors. He has led teams and networks that deliver highly coordinate care to some of our most vulnerable community members. He is passionate about building systems and partnerships that improve outcomes and reduce the cost of care for patients.
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Stockton Education: Ryerson University, Canada; National University, San Diego Board Certification: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner Languages Spoken: English
“I love working with seniors because they always teach me something new. They have a lifetime of wisdom that helps me grow as a clinician.”
When not working I enjoy… spending time with my family and my miniature schnauzer, going to church
Cheryl Phillips, MD
Senior Clinical Advisor
Dr. Cheryl Phillips is CEO of the Special Needs Plan Alliance, a national association for Medicare-Medicaid plans serving vulnerable adults. She was previously Chief Medical Officer of On Lok, the original PACE, and Founding Medical Director for Sutter Senior Care PACE, one of the earliest PACE replication sites. She is former president of the American Geriatrics Society and a fellowship-trained geriatrician.
Magda Lenartowicz, MD
Medical Director
Dr. Magda Lenartowicz is a passionate physician specializing in the care of older adults. She is a trained internist with a fellowship in geriatric medicine and social scientist with a specialization in gerontology. Prior to joining WelbeHealth, she founded a home health company and taught gerontology at McMaster University in Canada. Most recently, she served as medical director at a comprehensive geriatric inpatient service in Southern California and continues her clinical work as a hospice and palliative care physician with Rozeroom Hospice. Dr. Lenartowicz received her geriatric fellowship training from University of California Los Angeles and completed her undergraduate medical training and residency at the University of Saskatchewan, Canada. She completed her undergraduate training in gerontology at McMaster University.
Susan Waschevski
AVP, Operations
Susan is a deeply experienced PACE and senior care leader, having previously served as Director of PACE at Franciscan Alliance and Deputy Director at Indiana Division of Aging. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Monmouth College.
Heather Wasielewski
Vice President, People
Heather is passionate about creating a purposeful and impactful team member experience and believes that engaged and happy team members directly and positively impact the participants that we serve. She has MBAs from UC Berkeley and Columbia University and a BA in International Business and Spanish from Dominican University in River Forest, IL.
Marsha Alexander, MD
Role: Associate Medical Director Location: Stockton Medical Degree: East Tennessee State University Residency: Florida Hospital, Family Practice Languages Spoken: English
Dr. Alexander knows that medical conditions can be difficult for seniors and their loved ones to manage. She has been caring for seniors through PACE for five years. With nearly four decades of experience in family medicine, she partners with seniors to meet their health needs and goals. Dr. Alexander doesn’t shy away from tough conversations and her patients know she will help keep them on track. Her mission is to enable older adults to enjoy more independence and a better quality of life for as long as possible.
Outside of work, Dr. Alexander loves to quilt.
Nesren Anton, NP
Role: Nurse Practitioner Location: Stockton Education: Samuel Merritt University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Arabic
“I hope that everyone is able to achieve their health wish. I love helping seniors try to achieve that.”
Nesren is passionate about educating patients and the community about health issues and preventive care. Having spent several years working at Children’s Cancer Hospital, she took a position with Hospice and Palliative Care, managing Medicare patients and conducting in-home health assessments. Her compassion for seniors and her focus on providing quality care are very appreciated among the participants at WelbeHealth.
When Nesren is not seeing participants, she is busy being a supermom to five beautiful children.
Sepideh Chegini, MD
Role: Chief Medical Officer Medical Degree: University of Rochester School of Medicine Residency: George Washington University Internal Medicine Residency Board Certification: Internal Medicine Languages Spoken: English, German, Persian
“You treat your participants as if they’re your favorite family members. And you become their advocate. You give them a voice when they don’t have one.”
While in medical school, Sepideh Chegini recognized that her life’s mission is to care for both the body and mind, delivering patient-centered, holistic care. Dr. Chegini is dedicated, compassionate and determined to improve her patients’ quality of life.
Originally from Iran, Dr. Chegini has a husband, two kids and two big dogs. She also has a deep love for yoga, which is probably why she’s so cool under pressure.
Julio Garibay, FNP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Fresno Education: California State University, Fresno, Fresno Pacific University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
“I enjoy hearing about my participants’ backgrounds and their experiences. It helps me understand their perspectives and develop lasting patient-provider relationships.”
Julio served as a Medic in the United States Airforce before transitioning to registered nursing and now serves as a Family Nurse Practitioner. With nearly 20 years of clinical experience, he has provided care to patients of all ages with acute and chronic health conditions. He understands the complexity of disease and creates customized treatment plans for each participant.
Julio enjoys spending time with his family and taking his children to karate. He may be able to show you a few self-defense moves!
Otashe Golden, MD
Role: Regional Medical Director Location: Stockton Medical Degree: Albany Medical College Residency: University of California, Davis Sutter Health Family Medicine Board Certification: Family Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Care, Wound Care Languages Spoken: English
“I motivate you to live your best life and give you tools to empower yourself and your health.”
With over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Golden helps people lead a healthy life well into their golden years. She seeks to improve quality of care, collaborate with other providers and make sure participants receive the care they deserve. A published author, Dr. Golden is popularly known as the “Medical Life Coach.” She gives participants and their families resources that empower them to make better-informed health decisions.
If you’re looking for a lecture, you won’t get one! Dr. Golden tells her WelbeHealth participants, “I never lecture on the first date.”
Laura Gonzalez, MSN, FNP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Fresno Education: Grand Canyon University, United States University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
“I try to incorporate my patients’ values and goals. It’s not just all about Western medicine. I also want to incorporate what they do in their own cultures and just set limits to what we can and cannot do with their thoughts in mind.”
Laura has been serving seniors since 2015. She began her nursing career as a Registered Nurse at a California nursing home. Continuing her education, she became a Licensed Nurse Practitioner in 2019 and proudly stepped into her new role at WelbeHealth. Her experience in the PACE model has reassured Laura of how coordinated, quality care can make a huge difference in the lives of the elderly. She is honored to serve a diverse population of participants.
Laura loves bringing her children to her parent’s farm to see the chickens and goats, “teach them to care for creatures other than themselves.”
Oscar Hernandez, MD
Role: Medical Director Location: Fresno Medical Degree: Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Mexico, International Medical Graduate Program: The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Residency: University of California San Francisco, Fresno Board Certification: Family Medicine Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
“I have a lot of patience. I listen to our participants, respond to their concerns, and care for their needs.”
Dr. Hernandez has been caring for seniors through the PACE model for four years. He has seen the positive impact coordinated care can have on the elderly and is proud to deliver it as a part of the WelbeHealth team.
Dr. Hernandez values quality time with his family and friends and considers himself to be quite the handyman, regularly working on projects around his home.
Lauren Kennerly, NP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Pasadena Education: Kent State University, Rush University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English
“I am grateful when I take stress off the family and the patient. It makes everyone’s life easier and healthier, because we take care of them.”
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Lauren brings dynamic skills and experience that help her care for a diverse population of seniors. She’s also an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, which means she treats people from adolescents through adulthood and into advanced age. Lauren has worked in many clinical settings including the cardiovascular ICU, cardiac transplant ICU, PACU, orthopedics and internal medicine. She is excited to provide compassionate, personalized care to WelbeHealth participants with a goal to “do what makes you happy.”
In her free time, Lauren loves taking her dog to farmer’s markets because he has a “smiling” face that helps her make friends.
Becky Kuhn, RN, FNP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Pasadena Education: California State University, Long Beach Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
“It’s important for patients to understand their health conditions and the reasons for particular treatments. When patients know the ‘why,’ they’re more motivated to stick to their plan.”
Becky Kuhn has been working with seniors since 2011 and is dedicated to providing quality medical care and improving the health of her patients. She takes a collaborative approach ensuring they have the best quality of life. WelbeHealth participants appreciate her attention to detail, focus on educating and encouraging words.
Becky loves nature and would camp out in the woods for months if she could.
Yordanos Mehanzel, FNP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Stockton Education: Nevada State College, Touro University Nevada Board Certification: California Board of Registered Nursing Languages Spoken: English
“I take care of each patient the best that I can and consider how they want to be cared for.”
Yordanos is a real go-getter! She began working as a Registered Nurse in Pre-Op and PACU with an Associates Degree in Nursing. In 2017, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and in 2020, she received her Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner. She brings enthusiasm and strives to provide optimal, patient-centered care with compassion.
Outside of work, you can find her serving up tennis balls or relaxing with yoga!
Adetoun Obadofin, FNP, CCM
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Stockton Education: University of Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, University of Texas at Austin, West Coast University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, Commission for Case Manager Certification Languages Spoken: English
“I take care of seniors the way I would like to be taken care of. I want to take that journey with them and help them enjoy what they have.”
Adetoun provides care to patients with the most complex and advanced medical needs. She is experienced in adult-gerontology, caring for patients from adolescence through adulthood and into advanced age. She brings her experience to our participants and puts smiles on their faces.
A busy mom of 3 kids all under 13, Adetoun still finds time to do what she enjoys, which is giving back to the community.
Colin Robinson, MD, MPH
Role: Medical Director Location: Pasadena Medical Degree: Tufts University School of Medicine Residency: UCLA Combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics Board Certification: Internal Medicine, Pediatrics Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
“I pride myself on carefully listening to my patients. It’s important to understand their medical history, as well as their social, family and cultural lives.”
Dr. Robinson is passionate about providing personalized care to patients of all ages, including seniors. He practices patient-centered care to help WelbeHealth participants live their healthiest lives. In addition to his Doctor of Medicine (MD), Dr. Robinson holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) and previously served as a Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Program Director at UCLA.
When not working at WelbeHealth, Dr Robinson enjoys time with his family and hitting the occasional ace on the tennis court.
Raman Talwar, MD
Role: PACE Physician Location: Stockton Medical Degree: Government Medical College and Hospital Residency: Baylor College of Medicine Languages Spoken: English, Hindi, Punjabi
“If you can help somebody in need, they will often come back to thank you. That really means something to me.”
Dr. Raman’s four decades spent caring for patients of all ages shines through in his work at WelbeHealth. Participants and families know they can trust him as an experienced, knowledgeable provider. In addition to primary care, his medical specialties include general and vascular surgery. This hands-on vascular expertise helps him assist seniors in managing conditions that affect arteries and veins.
When not caring for participants, Dr. Talwar loves to travel and read as much as he can.
Dixie Tucker, A-GNP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Stockton Education: University of Alabama at Birmingham Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English
“I care for all my patients as if they’re my family. I want them to have the best, highest-quality care.”
Dixie has provided care to seniors in many settings, including homes, hospitals, trauma units, nursing homes and assisted living facilities. No matter where she cares for patients, she makes sure their unique needs are met. She brings that dedication to WelbeHealth as she cares for a diverse population of seniors. Some of her specialties include acute care, transitional care and chronic disease management.
When not working, Dixie loves couponing and tending to her garden.
Ted Vuong, FNP
Role: Nurse Practitioner Location: Pasadena Education: Western University of Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Vietnamese, Chinese (Chiu-Chow)
“It’s a gift to love the elderly. It’s a gift to admire them and have so much compassion for them that I felt like I needed to do this.”
Before joining WelbeHealth, Ted worked in an urgent care and emergency room setting. This experience has given him skills in caring for people of all ages. He enjoys working with the elderly, counseling them on care, treatment options and preventive medicine. In addition to English, Ted is fluent in five languages. You can test him out if you speak Cantonese, Mandarin, Vietnamese, Chiu-Chow or Spanish!
Ted enjoys serving his community and volunteering at his local food bank.
Linda Yang, MBA, BSN, MSN, FNP-C
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Fresno Education: Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Hmong
“Giving time back to seniors who have shaped the community is a privilege. I learn so much from them.”
Linda has years of invaluable experience as a volunteer and as a nurse. She has put her skills to use in a variety of healthcare settings. She is enthusiastic about providing compassionate education, safety and healthcare. She creates lasting relationships with participants, while delivering healthcare that empowers them and increases their quality of life.
Family-oriented and passionate about caring for people as if they were her own family, Linda is the proud mom of 6 grown children (all boys!) and grandma to 2 boys.
Jagdish Nijjar, FNP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Fresno Education: Fresno Pacific University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Punjabi, Hindi
Dennis Louis Yam, NP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Fresno Education: Walden University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Tagalog, Chinese
“Welbe Health is the ideal setting to practice medicine. Here, we get rewarded for the quality of care we give and the outcome of the care.”
Danny takes seriously the saying “do no harm” and works with each patient to deliver care suited to their unique circumstances.
When not working, I enjoy…traveling and road trips, spending time with family, watching movies.
Germin Soliman, DO
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Pasadena Education: Western University of Health Sciences Residency:College Medical Center Pacific Hospital of Long Beach Board Certification: American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine Languages Spoken: English, Spanish, Arabic
Danny Lam, NP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Pasadena Education: Azusa Pacific University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Cantonese, Mandarin
“I love working with seniors because they deserve the best quality of life they can get. In a way, while caring for them we can see our future.”
When not working, I enjoy… wanderlusting, skiing (not very good at it though).
Haide Landeros, NP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Pasadena Education: University of California, Los Angeles Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Nesren Anton, NP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Stockton Education: Samuel Merritt University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English, Arabic
“I hope that everyone is able to achieve their health wish. I love helping seniors try to achieve that.”
Nesren is passionate about educating patients and the community about health issues and preventive care. Having spent several years working at Children’s Cancer Hospital, she took a position with Hospice and Palliative Care, managing Medicare patients and conducting in-home health assessments. Her compassion for seniors and her focus on providing quality care are very appreciated among the participants at WelbeHealth.
When Nesren is not seeing participants, she is busy being a supermom to five beautiful children.
Marshe Ivy, FNP
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Stockton Education: Samuel Merritt University Board Certification: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Languages Spoken: English
“I am a nurse first and my goal is to treat my patients in a nurturing way, and give them the love and attention they deserve. I hope every one of my patients trust me to partner in their treatment and healing.”
Marshe prides herself on listening to and understanding where her patients are now, and helping them overcome any barriers to their care goals.
When not working, Marshe enjoys rest and relaxation such as shopping, crafting, or going to the spa, and spending time with family.
Raman Talwar, MD
Role: Primary Care Provider Location: Stockton Education: Maharshi Dayanand University Board Certification: Baylor College of Medicine Languages Spoken: English, Hindi, Spanish
