Current FM Resident Physicians

PGY-III

 Corey Boggs, MD

Corey Boggs, MD
Ross University School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown:

    Columbia, MD


    Education: 

    Medical School: Ross University

    M.S. Biomedical Science Wake Forest University

    Undergrad: B.S. Public Health Education University of NC at Greensboro


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    I chose family medicine because of the opportunity to remain committed to the fight for health equity and advocacy while also establishing and maintaining long term relationships with my patients. I love that our  job is to prevent disease occurrence but collaborate and coordinate to minimize disease impact should it occur. 


    Why MSM for Training?

    I chose Morehouse family medicine residency because it is the epitome of caring for the community while advocating for health equity and access for the disenfranchised . The very establishment of this residency program to care for vulnerable populations in Atlanta despite opposition is so inspiring and motivating. I’m humbled to be a part of and continue that legacy.


    Hobbies/Interests:

    I am a self proclaimed hostess with the mostest. I love to cook, bake, and host social events for my people. I am also a water sign through and through! I love all things outdoors but am also not opposed to a chill day in the house binging my favorite shows and documentaries. 🥳🥳🥳

Nijah Burris, MD 

Nijah Burris, MD
Morehouse School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown: 

    Union City, Ga 


    Education: 

    Medical School: Morehouse SOM

    Undergrad: Spelman College


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    I became interested in Family Medicine during my 3rd year rotation. I had a glimpse into managing chronic conditions and fostering lifelong patient-physician relationships. Truly, for the first time, I did not feel like I was working. My preceptor enabled me to directly counsel patients on various psychosocial issues, educate them on lifestyle changes, and promote healthy families. The constant variety of chief complaints and the ability to connect with different families provided me with immense fulfillment and satisfaction. Also, the diverse patient experiences motivated me to strengthen my knowledge in preventative medicine. I aspire to be a family physician who promotes care to patients throughout their lifespan, helps increase access to the underserved, and becomes one of the leaders in the creation of health equity for all populations 


    Why MSM for Training?

    I chose Morehouse because of their strong ties to Atlanta and surrounding communities, diverse patient populations, and plentiful service and learning opportunities. Morehouse Family Medicine not only equips you to care for underserved communities but instills a relentless passion for the welfare of others. The opportunity for continuity of care through the Lee Street Family Medicine Clinic is unmatched!  Lastly, I have been able to develop great relationships with my co-interns and upper-level residents.


    Hobbies/Interests:

    I enjoy walking along nature trails like Sope Creek, Atlanta Beltline Westside, and Silver Comet Trail. My mother often accompanies me and our walks have become a great opportunity for self-care and mindfulness. Also, I have recently discovered podcasts. Currently, my favorite types of podcasts to listen to are true crime, murder mystery, and inspirational stations. Lastly, with time permitting, I really enjoy creating at home do-it-yourself projects. 🎙🤿🏞

 

 

LaTasha Oaks Comer, MD 

LaTasha Oaks Comer, MD
Morehouse School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown: 

    Marietta, GA


    Education:

    Medical School- Morehouse School of Medicine

    Undergraduate- Spelman College


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    I love the variety that Family Medicine offers and the wide range of opportunities it provides. I also love that I can build and maintain meaningful relationships with my patients through primary care. 


    Why MSM for Training?

    I have always felt 100% supported by the faculty and staff at MSM and I knew that I would really enjoy the people I would be working with. I am also passionate about serving the underserved and helping to achieve better health outcomes for people of color, which is in line with MSM's mission. 


    Hobbies/Interests: 

    Traveling, learning languages, exploring new spots to dine, blogging, spending time with my family. Mommy is my favorite title. I have a 1-year-old daughter and 11-year-old stepson. 

 Alexandria Poitier, MD

Alexandria Poitier, MD
University of Miami
Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown:

    Miami, Fl


    Education:

    Medical School: University of Miami Miller School of Medicine

    Masters: University of Florida, Master’s of Public Health in Social Behavioral Sciences

    Undergrad: B.S, Biology and B.A. Religion, George Washington University, Washington, DC 


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    I chose Family Medicine because of the connection to patients and continuity of care. The ability to provide care for patients and their families throughout generations and in varying stages of their life is a privilege. Family medicine physicians also play a unique role given their connection to communities at large allowing them to advocate for patients and influence policy to enact widespread healthcare changes.  


    Why MSM for Training?

    Morehouse serves the community as evidenced by their patient populations, policies and leadership. Everyone at Morehouse works together to improve health equity, combat discrimination in healthcare and improve access to care to those who need it most. Morehouse FM is also a family! From staff to administration to residents you can’t help but feel the love and support from everyone :) 


    Hobbies/Interests:

    Baking especially sugar cookies, cupcakes and pound cake, party/event planning and home decorating. Being a dog mommy. #Peloton 🚲🎂🧁

 

 Carmen Simmons, MD

Carmen Simmons, MD
Meharry Medical College School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown: 

    Atlanta, GA


    Education:

    Medical School: Meharry Medical College

    Post Bacc: UNC-Greensboro

    Undergrad: University University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill- Interpersonal Communications


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    Before medical school, I didn’t know a lot about Family Medicine. I knew I was very interested in Internal Medicine and OBGYN, but couldn’t figure out which one I had to “give up”. First year, I saw an interest meeting called “Family Medicine Obstetrics” and thought “what could it hurt”. I’ve been a Family Medicine radical ever since!


    Why MSM for Training?

    I chose Morehouse (and thank God they chose me too) because it truly feels like “home”. Morehouse is not only a program that will highly train me in the fundamentals of medicine, but also a place I envision myself being supported, growing, and actualizing my full potential. It is a place that is not only rigorous but filled with purpose and mission. Morehouse Family Medicine Residency is truly a place that encompasses the essence of the type of physician I hope to be. I am beyond honored to be part of this family


    Hobbies/Interests: 

    In my free time, I love to travel and be creative. I treasure cooking, especially with her InstantPot and Airfryer, and often host dinner parties trying new recipes. I enjoy making personalized items and crafts with my Cricut. To keep healthy, I am a cardio dance instructor. When at home, I spend lots of time with my toy poodle, Chloe, who loves attention and treats. 🐕🪅🎊💃🏾

Salimah Sligh, DO 

Salimah Sligh, DO
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown:

    Chicago, IL


    Education:

    Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

    M.A.: Suffolk University

    M.S.: Georgetown University

    Undergrad: Spelman College


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    Family medicine has a little bit of everything, and the possibilities of a career path are endless. Our field is vital to everyone since we all need primary care providers. I love that the majority of family medicine providers absolutely love what they do. That speaks volumes to the discipline but also to the ability to reinvent yourself a professional because of our diverse training as well. I am so grateful I followed my heart and matched into Family Medicine. 


    Why MSM for Training?

    When searching for a good fit for a residency program, I was looking for a place that trained excellent physicians, but also trained on the complexities that contribute to health disparities and the challenges that plague our healthcare system. Morehouse is unmatched with resources, opportunities for growth, and its ability to create a supportive environment while propelling its residents to greater heights. I literally love it here! 


    Interests/ Hobbies:

    I love anything outside with my kids playgrounds, walks, the zoo, etc. The city has so much to offer with good weather too! 🪁🏞🎡

PGY-II

 Ashley Absolu, MD

Ashley Absolu, MD
Florida State University College of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Home town:

    Hollywood, FL


    Education:

    M.D. Florida State University

    M.S. Biomedical Sciences- Florida State University

    B.S. Exercise Physiology- Florida State University


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    The real question is why not Family Medicine? I chose Family Medicine after going on a medical mission trip to Lima, Peru in 2014. It was there I realized that I didn’t want to be limited to who I provided care to, especially if I wanted to do international work in the future. For this, FM was the perfect specialty for me because of the opportunity to provide multi-generational care to a diverse patient population. I also like the preventative medicine aspect of FM, and being able to educate my patients and prevent medical diseases and complications. Lastly, there are many avenues I can take in FM, allowing for variety not only in the workplace but skill sets. 


    Why MSM for Training?

    I chose MSM for 2 reasons! 1) The mission— I value MSM’s emphasis of serving the  underserved. I believe it’s populations like these that’s often gets overlooked. I know MSM will provide me with the tools necessary to address and therefore improve health disparities in my community. 2)The people—interview day/meet and greets/ second looks everyone was just really nice and relatable in some way. I laughed the most with the residents at MSM, and knew that they were colleagues that I would enjoy working with one day. I’m about a month into residency, and I can truly say I feel supported and I love it here! 


    Hobbies/Interests:

    I enjoy playing all sorts of board/card games. So I will most certainly be in attendance at ALL game nights! I love watching The Game Show Network, specifically Family Feud. If time allows I also like playing volleyball. I enjoy any opportunity to be creative and love arts & crafts. I also enjoy traveling, and exploring new cities especially through food. Lastly, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and 6-month old Chorkie.

Shantrice Appleby, MD 

Shantrice Appleby, MD
Morehouse School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown:

    Decatur, GA


    Education:

    Medical School: Morehouse School of Medicine (MD)

    Masters: Mercer University SOM (MS)

    Undergraduate: Spelman College (Psy BA), Georgia State University (Post Bacc)


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    I really enjoy outpatient medicine, I enjoy obstetrics care, mental health, service to underserved community, and improving health literacy and family medicine incorporates this and provides me with the ability to see patient of all ages/genders. Family medicine is a really broad field, so I will have the opportunity to do a variety of things post residency.


    Why MSM for Training?

    I really liked my experience with the Family Medicine Department as a student and as a native at Atlanta, it was a great opportunity to train in familiar settings and be present in the communities I grew up in.


    Hobbies:

    Creative Writing, Traveling, Cooking, Spending time w/Family and Friends

 Jaye George, MD

Jaye George, MD
Netter School of Medicine Quinnipiac University

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown: 

    Atlanta, GA


    Education:

    Medical School: Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University

    Undergraduate Education: Emory University


    Why Family Medicine? 

    I love the breadth of family medicine, and I love having the flexibility to see both kids and adults in clinic. I also embrace the daily challenge that comes with advocating for patients who might otherwise be left to navigate our country's complicated health care system on their own. 


    Why MSM for Training? 

    I knew I wanted to be back home for residency training serving in the community where I grew up, and Morehouse and I shared that same social mission of serving the underserved and mitigating health disparities in Black and other marginalized communities.


    Hobbies: 

    Running and staying active; spending time with my wife, Kim, and our family and friends; catching up on my favorite TV shows; watching Marvel movies and TV shows; keeping up with my professional sports teams; traveling whenever time and money allows.


    Academic Interests: 

    Health policy, medical education, and addiction medicine.

Rochenarda Joseph, DO 

Rochenarda Joseph, DO
Touro College of Medicine - New York

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown:

    Miami, Fl


    Education:

    Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine at Touro COM, Middletown NY

    Masters of Science at Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate TN

    Bachelors of Science at University of South Florida, Tampa FL


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    Family Medicine is one of med schools best kept secrets. The variety and autonomy that I have within family medicine is part of what attracted me to the specialty. Not only do I get to be involved in women's health, pediatrics, etc. But I can continue to reshape my career if I desire to. I can be a hospitalist, work in outpatient, run an urgent care, a rehab facility, and so much more. As a Primary Care Physician, I can tackle the disparities that aligned me with medicine in the first place. Family Medicine is the glue that holds it all together and I am empowered by the diversity in my field.


    Why MSM for Training?

    I chose Morehouse School of Medicine because I truly believed the training I would receive here would be unmatched. Prior to even starting medical school, I knew I was called to serve underserved communities. While searching for a residency program, I realized that MSM was putting into action what they were stating on paper. I wanted to be part of that. I felt that MSM would strengthen and support my desire to serve the communities I am called to, and I have not been disappointed.


    Hobbies/Interests:

    I love a good nappy time. Parks/nature are my happy place. It allows me to destress and tune out the noise. Food is always a win; I enjoy trying new restaurants or recipes. And lastly traveling, learning, music and movies.

 

 Dawn Mabra, MD

Dawn Mabra, MD
Morehouse School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown:

    Atlanta, GA via Queens, NY


    Education:

    Doctor of Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine

    Graduate Certificate in Medical Sciences, Morehouse School of Medicine

    Master of Science in Educational Psychology, Georgia State University

    Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management, Emory University

    Bachelor of Science in Human Development, Cornell University


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    I like the versatile nature of this discipline. No day is quite like the last.  I enjoy working with patients from all stages of life. The continuity of care involved in family medicine affords me the opportunity to care for patients throughout their lifetime and develop strong patient-physician relationships.


     Why MSM for Training?

    Morehouse School of Medicine is home for me. As an alumna of the MSMS pipeline program and the MD program, I grew both personally and professionally in the nurturing environment I found at MSM. I knew I could expect that same kind of caring environment and commitment to serving the underserved in residency training at MSM. 


    Hobbies/Interests:

    I really enjoy traveling and getting exposure to different cultures.  I have been to several countries in South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, as well as Australia.  I still have a bucket list of places I want to visit including South Africa, Greece, and Fiji.  Exercise is a big part of my life-work balance, but it also helps me balance my other love – FOOD.  I love trying new cuisines and breaking bread with family and friends over a good meal.  I am very active with my sons, Remiii and Riley.  You can find my husband Ron and I cheering for Remiii during baseball games in the spring and fall.  

Karline Saintus, MD 

Karline Saintus, MD
Meharry Medical College

  • Resident Profile

    Home town: 

    Sunrise, FL


    Education: 

    M.D. - Meharry Medical College

    M.S. Biomedical Sciences - Barry University

    B.S. Microbiology & Immunology - University of Miami


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    I chose Family Medicine as a specialty because I enjoy working with all patients. From children to the elderly to pregnant patients, I love the variety that Family Medicine offers. I am also passionate about women’s and reproductive health and serving underserved communities in hopes of making a difference in access to and quality of care.


    Why MSM for Training? 

    I chose Morehouse to do my training because I truly felt their mission and values aligned with my career goals in Family Medicine. Not only did I feel confident that Morehouse could provide me with an excellent training experience, but also provide the support I need in residency. I can't forget to mention the awesome and happy vibes I felt from talking to the residents and just knew that this was the place for me. Great program, great city, great vibes, Morehouse is the whole package!


    Hobbies/Interests:

    Health & fitness, mentoring, being a foodie, game nights, bowling, skating, and wine tasting.

PGY-I

 Ryan Alevy, MD

Ryan Alevy, MD
Morehouse School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown:

    Duluth, GA

    Education:

    Medical School: Morehouse School of Medicine

    Undergraduate: Georgia State University - Biology


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    I love the versatility that familiy medicine has to offer. The ability to take care of patients from birth to adulthood is rewarding and allows me to practice within a broad-scope. I also love the emphasis on preventative medicine that is fundamental in primary care. This allows me to counsel patients regarding various lifestyle changes and help people live healthier lives.


     Why MSM for Training?

    As a medical student at Morehouse School of Medicine, I had a phenomenal experience during my family medicine rotation. The supportive culture of the program, from the faculty to the residents, in addition to the emphasis on education made me feel confident that I would receive top quality training at MSM. As a family medicine physician, I want to address health disparities and provide increased access to healthcare. MSM's strong purpose and mission to serve the underserved means that there is no better place to work towards that goal.


    Hobbies/Interests:

    Soccer, traveling, video games, trying new restaurants, hanging out with family and friends!

Lauren Cooper, DO 

Lauren Cooper, DO
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Auburn Campus

  • Resident Profile

    Home town: 

    Tuskegee, AL

    Education: 

    Tuskegee University- BS Biology

    Auburn University- MS Exercise Science

    Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine Auburn Campus- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine.


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    I have an interest in so many things- pediatrics, geriatrics, sports medicine, women's health. Family Medicine gives me the opportunity to train in all of these areas, insuring I am a versatile provider that can provide care in various settings and communities.


    Why MSM for Training? 

    Morehouse serves a population similar to that of my hometown. I connected to Morehouse's mission of serving the underserved and knew it would feel very rewarding to work with patients I can relate to and to create care plans for based on my own knowledge of cultural norms and potential social determinants of health.


    Hobbies/Interests:

    Video games, thrifting/finding deals, working out, self-care

 Christopher Jackson, MD

Christopher Jackson, MD
Morehouse School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown:

    Jesup, GA

    Education:

    Bachelor of Arts in Biology

    Bachelor of Arts in Spanish

    Master of Science in Medical Sciences

    Doctor of Medicine


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    Continuity of care, flexibility of career options, full spectrum medicine


     Why MSM for Training?

    #1 in social mission of serving the underserved; leads in the creation and advancement of health equity; incorporates social determinants of health into healthcare plans


    Hobbies/Interests:

    Playing video games, watching sports, working out, and spending time with family and friends.

Michele Mack, MD 

Michele Mack, MD
Ross University School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Home town: 

    Miami, FL

    Education: 

    Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine

    Masters: Troy University, Master's of Biomedical Sciences

    Undergrad: Florida State University, Bachelors of Exercise Science


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    Family Medicine training encompasses is the epitome of a well-trained physician. I chose this specialty because of the vast array of patients that I would be able to reach and connect with. I have the opportunity to become a master of various diseases processes and be able to relay that information to my patients. In reality, Family Medicine chose me, and I would not have it any other way!


    Why MSM for Training? 

    I chose Morehouse because I saw so many faces that looked like my own and were relatable. By the time my interview ended, I knew that this was the program I wanted to call home. The staff are approachable and committed to training their residents to their best ability. I am so happy to be a part of the Morehouse team and would make the decision to Match with them over and over again.


    Hobbies/Interests:

    When it comes to fitness, I am your GIRL. I love all things that involve getting active and working up a sweat. I'm also very in tune with spending time in nature and meditation. I love a quiet time outdoors listening to nature and thanking God for my well-being.

 Ashley McCall, MD

Ashley McCall, MD
Ross University School of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Hometown:

    Memphis, TN

    Education:

    Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine

    Masters: M.M.S, Mississippi College, Clinton, MS

    Undergraduate: B.A. Psychology with Pre-Med Concentration, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Knoxville, TN


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    I really enjoy the diversity that Family Medicine provides. I discovered in medical school that I had several interests (Women's Health, Pediatrics, and Preventive Medicine) and Family Medicine allowed me to pursue all of my interests without compromising. I also really enjoy the continuity of care aspect and being able to establish bonds and relationships with my patients.


     Why MSM for Training?

    I chose to train at Morehouse School of Medicine because the mission and values of the institution aligned closely with mine.  Growing up in an environment with limited resources ignited a passion for serving underserved and underrepresented communities so I knew MSM was the perfect place to train and get that exposure. I also got great vibes and feels from attending the second look. It was evident to me that the residents were happy and got along well and that faculty were supportive. 


    Hobbies/Interests:

    I love traveling, fitness, baking, trying new food/restaurants, binging Netflix, and spending time with family and friends! 

Zari Watts, MD 

Zari Watts, MD
Howard Univeristy College of Medicine

  • Resident Profile

    Home town: 

    Evanston, IL

    Education: 

    M.D. - Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C.

    B.A. in Psychology – Hampton University in Hampton, VA


    Why Family Medicine as a Specialty?

    Being a Family Medicine PCP puts me in a unique position to be a patient’s home base and help educate and empower them to manage their health with me. I will be serving patients with health behaviors shaped by resource-poor environments and with certain barriers to care that end up with multiple chronic conditions. I am specifically interested in Lifestyle Medicine and love that I get to offer a preventive approach to children and their parents, adults, and the elderly.


    Why MSM for Training? 

    I am here for both selfless and selfish reasons :) It is my selfless personal mission to provide holistic care to the underserved and people of color, and Morehouse School of Medicine is a leading institution dedicated to this same mission so I can learn from those who came before me. My selfish reasons are that I wanted to go 3 for 3 in my HBCU education and be around my incredibly supportive family!


    Hobbies/Interests:

    Any and all things plant related! I’m a plant mom, I cook plant-based, I love to hike and am currently working on a new garden. I am also liable to be found on a plane, in a book or at brunch.