Internal Medicine

Residency Program

Built upon a foundation of fostering robust peer and faculty mentor relationships, our program places significant emphasis on delivering exceptional patient care, meticulous attention to detail, and a scholarly approach to clinical challenges. Welcome to our Internal Medicine Residency Program, a distinguished institution in medical education dedicated to excellence and continuous learning.

Our program places a strong emphasis on cultivating qualities essential for exceptional physicians, such as critical thinking, resilience, adaptability, and effective communication skills. Residents are exposed to a diverse range of clinical scenarios in internal medicine, fostering a well-rounded education to tackle the challenges of modern healthcare. We uphold the highest academic standards, with a focus on patient-centered care, collaboration, and leadership development. Our dedication to advocating for underserved populations fosters a supportive environment for resident growth, driven by our passion for shaping future healthcare leaders.

Size: With a total of 36 residents in our program, we enjoy considerable flexibility in scheduling requested rotations, vacations, family leaves, and wellness days. This ample cohort size enables us to accommodate individual needs while maintaining high-quality education and continuity of care for our patients.

Program Leadership:
The program boasts a robust team of dedicated and seasoned clinicians and educators at the helm, comprising our department chair, program director, associate program director, and the chief resident. With their wealth of experience and commitment, they provide strong leadership and guidance, ensuring the program’s success and the professional development of its residents.

Faculty:
Overseeing residents are more than 30 full-time faculty members deeply involved in both teaching and patient care responsibilities, affording residents focused support in residency mentorship, research, and educational endeavors. To ensure ongoing excellence in teaching, faculty members undergo monthly evaluations by house staff, guaranteeing the maintenance of high-quality educational standards.

Format:
The program follows a structured format consisting of thirteen 4-week blocks throughout the year. This organized scheduling approach ensures a consistent and predictable framework for residents to engage in various rotations, educational activities, and professional development opportunities. Additionally, this format facilitates efficient planning and coordination of resident schedules, allowing for optimal utilization of time and resources.

Multidisciplinary teams:
Care teams within our program are composed of a diverse array of healthcare professionals, ensuring comprehensive and multidisciplinary patient care. These teams include social workers, discharge planners, pharmacists, dietitians, and medical students among others. By leveraging the expertise and collaboration of these various professionals, we strive to provide holistic and patient-centered care, addressing the complex needs of our patients effectively and efficiently.

Dr. Asim Saeed

Designated Institutional Official (DIO)

Bio:

Dr. Asim Saeed is a highly accomplished internal medicine and Sleep Medicine physician. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and raised in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, he has a deep appreciation of the Windy City. Dr. Saeed cherishes the memories of the legendary Chicago Bulls dynasty.
Dr. Saeed’s educational journey began at Xavier University School of Medicine, where he laid the groundwork for his medical career. He then embarked on a rigorous residency training program in Internal Medicine at the University of Chicago Weiss Memorial Hospital. To further enhance his expertise, Dr. Saeed pursued a Sleep Medicine fellowship at Rush University.
Beyond his impressive medical credentials, Dr. Asim Saeed is an inspiration to countless medical students and residents worldwide. He is widely recognized as a visionary leader who has made significant contributions to the field of medicine. Driven by his passion for healthcare, medical education, and entrepreneurship, he has consistently challenged the status quo and brought about positive change.
Dr. Saeed’s unwavering determination, revolutionary ideas, and exceptional leadership skills have earned him a reputation as a game-changer. He believes wholeheartedly in the power of healing, patience, and compassion, and actively seeks to share his knowledge and experiences with fellow healthcare professionals and aspiring physicians.
While Dr. Saeed’s professional accomplishments are remarkable, he also prioritizes a fulfilling personal life. He finds joy in exploring new destinations, indulging as a self-proclaimed foodie, and has a keen interest in cars. Additionally, he embraces the thrill of snowboarding, seeking exhilarating adventures on the slopes. Above all, Dr. Saeed cherishes quality time spent with his wife and children, creating lasting memories with his loved ones.

Ayham Alagha

Program Director

Dr. Ayham Alagha was born in sunny San Diego, California, his medical journey began in the vibrant and historic setting of Syria. He embarked on his educational journey, driven by a passion for healing and a desire to make a difference. However, the tumultuous political climate forced him to adapt his path. Undeterred, he pursued his medical studies at Caribbean Medical University, where he thrived despite the challenges, gaining invaluable insights into different healthcare systems along the way.

After completing his training, Dr. Alagha’s thirst for knowledge and commitment to excellence led him to match into the internal medicine residency program at West Suburban Medical Center. Over the course of three intensive years, he immersed himself in the complexities of internal medicine, honing his diagnostic skills and deepening his understanding of patient care. His dedication and leadership qualities were soon recognized, as he was elected Chief Resident, a role in which he excelled, providing mentorship, guidance, and teaching to his fellow residents.

Dr. Alagha’s unwavering dedication to his field was further underscored by his nomination as a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, an honor that speaks to his commitment to advancing the practice of internal medicine. Throughout his career, he has remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence, continuously seeking opportunities for growth and development.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Dr. Alagha has a passion for exploration and adventure. He finds solace in traveling to new destinations, hiking through picturesque landscapes, and discovering hidden gems in bustling cities. An avid food enthusiast, he delights in exploring diverse culinary offerings and savoring the simple pleasures of a great cup of coffee.

Ayham.alagha@insightchicago.com

Mazen Kherallah

Associate Program Director

Dr. Mazen Kherallah earned his Medical Degree (MD) from the University of Damascus in 1987, followed by an internal medicine residency at the University of Illinois in Chicago. He pursued further specialization through infectious disease and critical care medicine fellowships at various esteemed institutions, including the University of Chicago, the Medical College of Wisconsin, and Wayne State University. In addition, he obtained a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Phoenix in 2016.

Dr. Kherallah has held numerous clinical appointments throughout his career. Notably, he has served as a Critical Care and Infectious Disease Consultant and the Medical Director of Critical Care Services at Sanford Health System in Fargo, ND, since 2003. He has also held leadership positions in critical care departments at medical institutions in Saudi Arabia and Syria and had recently accepted a position of associate program director of the internal medicine residency program at Insight Hospital & Medical Center.

Aside from his clinical practice, Dr. Kherallah has played a pivotal role in academia. Holding the position of Clinical Associate Professor at the University of North Dakota, he has garnered recognition for his exceptional teaching abilities, earning numerous awards and honors. Moreover, Dr. Kherallah has actively participated in various professional organizations and committees. As the past president and a founding member of the Middle East Critical Care Assembly, he has been instrumental in advancing critical care medicine regionally and internationally. Additionally, Dr. Kherallah’s contributions extend to the digital realm as the creator of the online platform www.icureach.com, further facilitating the dissemination of critical care knowledge and expertise.

Dr. Kherallah’s research endeavors have primarily concentrated on enhancing the quality, safety, and management protocols within critical care units. His prolific contributions in these domains are evidenced by numerous publications. Beyond the medical sphere, Dr. Kherallah has cultivated expertise in computer programming and internet languages, including PHP, JavaScript, and XML. Moreover, he possesses a profound understanding of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, making him a reliable resource for inquiries in these areas.

Mazen.kherallah@insightchicago.com

Aaron McCulley

IM Program Coordinator

Aaron.McCauley@insightchicago.com

Israr Khan

Academic/Research Chief

Education:

  • Undergrad – ICMC College System for Boys
  • MD School – Bolan Medical College

Bio:

Israr was born and raised in Pakistan. He graduated with top honors in biology and health sciences/pre-medical from ICMS Peshawar and went on to complete his medical education at Bolan Medical College. After medical school, he completed his internship at a tertiary teaching hospital in Peshawar before moving to the US with his family. Due to his unwavering mission in medicine and dedication to community service, Israr was awarded the MAGMRC Humanitarian Award and Georgia Commendation Medal for services during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. He has held various roles, including clinical intern, extern, and research collaborator. He is a member of several professional societies. Currently, Israr is exploring a subspecialty fellowship in Heme-Onc or Cardiology. In his spare time, he enjoys photography, playing sports, traveling, cooking, and reading non-medical books.

Seif Hayek

Administrative Chief

Education:

  • Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
  • Medical University of Bahrain

Bio:

Seif was born in Jordan and raised in Qatar before pursuing his medical studies in Bahrain. He began his medical career in the United States, completing his first year of residency at Palisades Medical Center-Hackensack in New Jersey. He is currently advancing his medical training as an internal medicine resident at Insight. Seif has a wide range of hobbies, such as soccer, tennis, running, and painting. He is passionate about practicing medicine and aspires to specialize in pulmonary/critical care medicine.

Sean Paknoosh

Clinical Excellence Chief

Education:

  • Undergrad – University of California, San Diego
  • MD School – Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine

Bio:

Sean hails from the vibrant city of Los Angeles and pursued his academic journey at the University of California, San Diego, where he attained both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in Biology. During his time there, Sean delved deep into the world of molecular mechanisms and genetics, focusing specifically on cardiac remodeling in the model organism, Drosophila melanogaster (the fruit fly). Sean was also a teaching assistant in 3 different undergraduate courses and received the Excellence in Teaching Award from his university. He attended medical school at Midwestern University in Chicago, where he continued to hone his skills and broaden his knowledge in the medical field. Outside of his academic and professional endeavors, Sean finds joy and fulfillment in spending time with his loved ones, traveling, and exploring new gastronomies as well as the art of coffee brewing.

Ambulatory Medicine:

Jaime Torres, MD

Dr. Naveed Mallick - Board Member of Insight Chicago
Board Member

Dr. Naveed Mallick

Dr. Scott Coppel, MD

Jaime Torres, MD

Dr. Jaime Torres is a board-certified internist and sleep specialist at Insight Chicago. Dr. Torres specializes in a wide range of sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, insomnia, and narcolepsy.

Prior to joining Insight, Dr. Torres practiced sleep medicine for four years at Cook County Health. He attended medical school at the University of Illinois at Chicago and received training in internal medicine and sleep medicine at Rush University Medical Center.

Dr. Torres is a lifelong resident of the Chicagoland area and grew up in the western suburb of Berwyn. He is a first-generation Mexican-Ameri­can and is fluent in Spanish. During his free time, he enjoys visiting family in the area and running with his dog. Dr. Torres is accepting new patient appointments at Insight Chicago.

Board Member

Dr. Naveed Mallick

Dr. Naveed Mallick is an experienced primary care doctor and sleep medicine specialist. He has served on staff at four safety-net hospitals in both internal medicine and pulmonary medicine departments. He has helped start several sleep labs in prominent health systems and has been involved in lab accreditation by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He currently directs two hospital-based sleep programs in the Chicago area.

In addition to having experience in both public and private health systems, Dr. Mallick has extensive experience in working in safety-net hospital systems including Sinai Health. He is also a staff physician at IMAN clinic which is a federally qualified health center. His career began at Cook County Health and Hospital System where he served for 16 years as a Senior Attending Physician in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

He is board-certified in internal medicine and sleep medicine credentialed by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Mallick has been awarded certification as an asthma champion and a specialist in clinical hypertension. He is a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

He graduated from the University of Illinois medical school in 1997 and completed his residency at Rush University in 2000.  He is also a board-certified sleep medicine specialist, having completed his fellowship in sleep medicine at the University of Chicago in 2007. Dr. Mallick has lived and raised his family on the south side of Chicago for the last 20 years.

Dr. Scott Coppel, MD

Dr. Scott Coppel is a board-certified physician and internal medicine specialist at Insight Chicago. Prior to joining Insight, Dr. Coppel received his undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University, graduated from the Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, and completed a three year residency at Indiana University.

With a passion for treating patients holistically, Dr. Coppel believes in recognizing everyone he sees as an individual. This includes understanding the social determinants of health that can impact each patient’s care. In addition to treating his patients’ presenting complaints and comorbidities, he is also committed to addressing every factor that will affect an individual’s success in achieving their healthcare goals.

Anesthesiology:

Waseem Alfahel

Waseem Alfahel

Cardiology

Dr. Bobby Diniotis

Dr. Neha Patel

Dr. Sarabjeet Singh

Chairman of Cardiovascular Medicine

Dr. Umar Shakur

Dr. Bobby Diniotis

Dr. Bobby Diniotis, interventional cardiologist. Dr Diniotis is passionate about delivering the best care to his patients. He is able to perform procedures that can establish the presence and extent of coronary artery disease (cardiac catheterization) and also perform interventions, like placing a stent, when appropriate. Dr Diniotis has trained at Sinai Chicago for internal medicine, cardiology, and interventional cardiology.

Dr. Neha Patel

Dr. Neha Patel, noninvasive cardiologist. Dr Patel is dedicated to understanding her patients’ needs and charting the best plan of care. As an expert in noninvasive cardiology, she uses diagnostic testing including EKGs, echocardiography, stress testing, and CT imaging to establish the presence of heart disease and its management. Dr Patel has trained at Sinai Chicago for internal medicine and cardiology.

Dr. Sarabjeet Singh

Dr. Sarabjeet (Serge) Singh is a board-certified cardiologist at Insight Hospital and Medical Center’s Department of Cardiovascular Medicine. Originally from Queens, New York, Dr. Singh wanted to pursue a career in medicine from a young age and received his Bachelor of Science degree as a physician assistant at York College of City University of New York (CUNY).

He then continued his education in medicine and graduated from Windsor University School of Medicine, followed by training in internal medicine in Chicago. After completing his residency in internal medicine, Dr. Singh began subspecializing in cardiology and interventional cardiology. Following his training, Dr. Singh worked at Rush Copley Medical Center in Aurora, IL with heavy emphasis in interventional cardiology.

Dr. Singh is very excited to be part of the Insight family in the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, providing care for our local Chicago community.

Chairman of Cardiovascular Medicine

Dr. Umar Shakur

Dr. Shakur completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Chicago. He then went to Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL for medical school. After that, he began his graduate medical education at the Medical College of Wisconsin where he completed his internal medicine residency. He then became chief resident in internal medicine at Brown University/Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island. After working for one year as a hospitalist, he then started his fellowship in cardiovascular medicine at St Vincent Hospital in Worcester, MA. After completing his fellowship training, he worked initially at Carney Hospital in Boston and then Sturdy Memorial in Attleboro, MA. At Sturdy, Dr. Shakur was director of cardiac rehab and also helped start the cardio-oncology program. He then joined Insight as chairman of cardiovascular medicine in 2022.

Emergency Medicine

Allen Hollingsworth

Anita Goyal

Bradley Dickson

Carl Ferraro

Kierre R. Honore, MD

Noelle B Hurks, MD

Sabir M. Rahmanny, MD

Uzma F. Ahmad, MD

Allen Hollingsworth

Today, Dr. Hollingsworth stands as a dedicated and accomplished professional, a bridge between the fast-paced world of medicine and the intricacies of the human experience. His journey from Austin, TX as a youth took him to UT Health San Antonio for medical school, and from there to Chicago to Cook County Hospital for residency. With his roots in Austin and a trail of learning across states, Dr. Hollingsworth continues to impact lives with unwavering dedication and the belief that every moment counts in the realm of emergency medicine.

Anita Goyal

Bradley Dickson

Dr. Dickson is board certified in Emergency Medicine through the American Board of Emergency Medicine. He did three years of research at Columbia University Medical Center before going to medical school at SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY. He later completed his residency in emergency medicine at Cook County Hospital. Dr. Dickson has been proudly serving the people of Chicago at Insight Hospital since July 2021.

Carl Ferraro

Carl Ferraro, M.D. graduated from Wright State University School of Medicine, completed residency in Emergency Medicine at the Wright State University Affiliated Hospitals, and is board certified in Emergency Medicine. He has been working as an Emergency Physician in Chicago since 1985, and has worked at Insight Hospital and Medical Center Chicago since its establishment. Dr. Ferraro has been involved with medical education throughout his career having helped in the training of numerous medical students and residents, and served as an Associate Program Director for the University of Illinois at Chicago Emergency Medicine Residency. Outside of medicine, Dr. Ferraro enjoys cycling, hiking and mountaineering, and music.

Kierre R. Honore, MD

Dr. Kierre R. Honore is a 19 year board-certified emergency medicine physician. Dr. Honore graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago in 2003. He completed his residency training at the University of Illinois’ Emergency Medicine Residency Program. Since 2006, Dr. Honore has been an esteemed and vital member of the Chicagoland community, treating his patients with the greatest attention to every detail of their health care needs, with an emphasis on maintaining their general wellness. Dr. Honore is excited and proud to care for his patients at Insight Hospital and Medical Center.

Noelle B Hurks, MD

Doctor Noelle Hurks is a Board Certified Emergency Medicine physician who joined the Insight Hospital team in 2022. Doctor Hurks brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role and as a member of the Bronzeville community has a deep sense of commitment to her patients. Having practiced primarily in underserved communities since 2013, she understands the importance of medical literacy and accessible healthcare, and strives to make a positive impact on the lives of her patients.

Doctor Hurks obtained her Bachelor’s degree from Spelman College in Atlanta Georgia. She went on to obtain her Doctorate of Medicine at Meharry Medical College in Nashville Tennessee culminating with Emergency Medicine residency training at the University of Chicago.

Outside of medicine, Doctor Hurks is happily married and enjoys reading, working out, cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with her nephew.

Sabir M. Rahmanny, MD

Dr. Sabir M Rahmanny attended medical school at Sind Medical University Karachi and completed his residency at Indiana University Northwest in Gary. Subsequently, he became an emergency department attending physician at Indiana University Northwest and served as a faculty member in the emergency medicine department for 14 years. He also worked at Illinois Valley Community Hospital as an emergency department attending for nine years. In total, Dr. Sabir M Rahmanny has 23 years of experience practicing hard-core emergency medicine in both inner city trauma settings and community-based hospitals.

His special interests include pediatric critical care, ballistic injuries, and difficult airway management. He holds dual board certifications in emergency medicine and family medicine. Outside of his medical practice, Dr. Sabir M Rahmanny enjoys spending quality time with his family.

Uzma F. Ahmad, MD

Dr. Uzma F. Ahmad is a board-certified emergency medicine physician. Dr. Ahmad graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago in 2018. She completed her residency training at Advocate Christ Medical Center’s Residency Program in 2022. Since 2022, Dr. Ahmad has been an esteemed and vital member of the Chicagoland community, treating her patients with the greatest attention to every detail of their health care needs, with an emphasis on maintaining their general wellness. Dr. Ahmad is excited and proud to care for her patients at Insight Hospital and Medical Center.

Endocrinology:

Zubair Ilyas

Zubair Ilyas

Family Medicine:

Family Medicine

Anuj Jain

Family Practice Physician

Brittani James

Family Medicine

Anuj Jain

Dr. Anuj Jain is a highly experienced, board-certified family medicine physician with over 15 years of experience in the field. Dedicated to comprehensive healthcare, his approach includes preventive, promotive, and curative aspects, focusing on enhancing the overall well-being of his patients and their families. Dr. Jain has a special interest in preventive cardiology, having completed a course at Stanford University, which has equipped him with skills to assess and manage risks associated with coronary artery disease and stroke prevention.

In addition to preventive cardiology, Dr. Jain is skilled in managing various medical conditions such as diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure (hypertension), hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, asthma/COPD, muscle spasms, arthritis, and pediatric care. He provides comprehensive care for diabetes patients, focusing on lifestyle modifications, medication, and monitoring to manage the condition effectively.

Committed to patient-centered care, Dr. Jain relies on both best practices in standard care and innovative treatment options. He is fluent in English, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys spending time with his family, reading, playing badminton, and mentoring medical students and residents.

Family Practice Physician

Brittani James

Dr. Brittani James is a practicing Family Medicine physician, activist and the Medical Director of the Inner City Muslim Action Network (IMAN) in South side Chicago. Dr. James graduated from Cornell University with a major in Biology and a minor in Global Health. She attended The University of Michigan Medical School and went on to complete Family Medicine Residency at The University of Illinois at Chicago where she served as Chief Resident. Prior to her role at IMAN, Dr. James served as an Assistant Professor of Clinical Family Medicine at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she developed and piloted a novel dialogue-based curriculum for medical students to support their understanding of structural racism in healthcare. For this work, she was awarded The Golden Apple Award for Teaching Excellence and was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society.

Dr. James’ advocacy work and scholarship in the area of racial justice in health has gained national attention and has been featured on various outlets including NBC Nightly News, The New York Times, CNN ,The Associated Press, The Ellen Show, MTV and The Kelly Clarkson Show among others. Her academic writings have appeared in Chicago Medicine and The New England Journal of Medicine. In 2020, she was awarded The Martin Luther King Legacy Award by the Chicago Bulls.

Dr. James’ current clinical and academic interests include Black Maternal Mortality, non-Western healing frameworks and practices and the biopsychosocial impact of oppression on individual and community health.

Gastroenterology:

Roop Gupta

Roop Gupta

Bradley Dickson

Infectious Disease:

Benjamin Samuel

Benjamin Samuel

Benjamin Samuel, MD, SC, is a distinguished physician and researcher based in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Samuel completed his M.B.B.S. in Medicine & Surgery in 1978 and his M.D. in Internal Medicine in 1984, both from the University of Madras – CMC, Vellore. His extensive postgraduate training includes a residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Illinois, Chicago, from 1992 to 1994, a fellowship in Infectious Disease at Yale University from 1994 to 1998, and postdoctoral research in Molecular and Cellular Biology at Northwestern University from 1998 to 2001.

Throughout his career, Dr. Samuel has held several academic appointments and clinical positions, contributing significantly to infectious disease education and research. He served as a Clinical Infectious Disease Teaching Attending at various Chicago hospitals, including Michael Reese Hospital and Mercy Hospital Medical Center. His roles have encompassed Director of Infection Control and Antimicrobial Stewardship, Chair of the Credentialing Committee, and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois.

Dr. Samuel is board certified in Internal Medicine with a subspecialty in Infectious Disease, and he holds certifications from the American Society of Tropical Medicine & Hygiene in Tropical Medicine/Travel Medicine. His research has been widely published, focusing on infectious diseases, tropical medicine, and molecular biology of infectious pathogens.

Hematology/Oncology:

Amar Hamad

Basharath Khan

Tajammul Hussain, MD

Amar Hamad

Basharath Khan

Dr. Khan is a medical oncologist and hematologist trained at the University of Illinois and has been in practice for over ten years. He specializes in a wide range of hematological and oncological conditions, providing care at the community-based Oncology of NorthShore in Rolling Meadows. In addition to his primary role, he volunteers at Hayat Clinic, offering Internal Medicine services to the underprivileged.As a clinical preceptor, Dr. Khan is affiliated with Des Moines University in Iowa and Insight Hospital & Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. His formal medical education includes a fellowship in Hematology and Medical Oncology at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago from 2015 to 2018, a residency in Internal Medicine at Advocate Christ Medical Center affiliated with the University of Illinois from 2010 to 2013, and an MBBS from Deccan College of Medical Sciences NTR, graduating in 2007.Dr. Khan holds an Illinois State Medical License, valid through 2026, and is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Medical Oncology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Beyond his professional life, he is deeply involved in community service as the Executive Director of Hayat Clinic. His personal interests include leadership roles, traveling, fitness, and theology.

Tajammul Hussain, MD

Hospital Medicine:

Asim Saeed

Ayham Alagha

Fadi Kara

Jaime Torres, MD

Karim Al-Sabek, MD

Internal Medicine

Syed Abdur-Rahman

Syed Hussaini

Asim Saeed

Ayham Alagha

Fadi Kara

My Name is Fadi Kara, I am a physician with a diverse background in internal medicine and clinical leadership. Originally from Syria, I spent my formative years in Doha, Qatar before embarking on a transformative journey to Germany, where I pursued my medical education.

My experience in Germany laid the foundation for my career in medicine and instilled in me a deep appreciation for rigorous academic training and clinical excellence. Following my education in Germany, I had the privilege of completing a one-year surgical residency, further honing my skills and passion for patient care.

Seeking new opportunities to expand my horizons, I ventured to the United States, where I joined Northwestern University in Chicago as a PhD postdoctoral fellow for two enriching years, focusing on cancer biology and molecular oncology. This experience deepened my understanding of complex medical issues and reinforced my commitment to advancing healthcare and patient well-being. Seeking to broaden my clinical expertise, I transitioned to internal medicine and completed a residency program at Mercy Hospital Medical Center, now known as Insight Hospital.

This pivotal experience equipped me with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field of internal medicine and provided me with a strong foundation for my subsequent career endeavors. Since completing my residency, I have dedicated over a decade to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to patients in various urban centers around Chicago, as well as in Indiana, Wisconsin, and California.

Throughout my journey, I have served as a hospitalist and nocturnist in multiple hospitals, contributing my expertise to diverse patient populations and medical teams. Additionally, I currently serve as a dedicated teaching faculty for residents in internal medicine and students, imparting my knowledge and experience to the next generation of healthcare professionals.

I am honored to currently hold the position of Medical Director of Hospital Medicine, where I oversee the delivery of high-quality care, mentor medical staff, and implement strategic initiatives to enhance patient outcomes and operational efficiency.

My dedication to advancing healthcare and improving lives continues to drive me each day, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the medical community. Thank you for considering my background and qualifications. I look forward to the possibility of collaborating with you and your team in the future.

Jaime Torres, MD

Dr. Jaime Torres is a board-certified internist and sleep specialist at Insight Chicago. Dr. Torres specializes in a wide range of sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, insomnia, and narcolepsy.

Prior to joining Insight, Dr. Torres practiced sleep medicine for four years at Cook County Health. He attended medical school at the University of Illinois at Chicago and received training in internal medicine and sleep medicine at Rush University Medical Center.

Dr. Torres is a lifelong resident of the Chicagoland area and grew up in the western suburb of Berwyn. He is a first-generation Mexican-Ameri­can and is fluent in Spanish. During his free time, he enjoys visiting family in the area and running with his dog. Dr. Torres is accepting new patient appointments at Insight Chicago.

Karim Al-Sabek, MD

Internal Medicine

Syed Abdur-Rahman

Dr. Syed Abdur-Rahman is a respected Internal Medicine doctor known for his dedication to patients and healthcare advocacy. He embarked on his academic journey with a Neuroscience degree from the University of Illinois, followed by a Master’s in Public Health. After completing his medical education at Windsor University School of Medicine, he pursued his residency in Internal Medicine at Mercy Hospital and Medical Center.

During his residency at Mercy Hospital and Medical Center, Syed not only honed his clinical skills but also demonstrated leadership by initiating multiple quality improvement projects. One notable achievement was his involvement in enhancing code blue response protocols and telemetry monitoring systems. Through his dedication and leadership, Syed significantly contributed to optimizing patient care and safety within the hospital setting, leaving a lasting impact on healthcare delivery quality.

Outside of medicine, Syed finds joy and inspiration in traveling. Despite his busy schedule, he prioritizes exploring new cultures and destinations during his free time. Traveling serves as a way for him to recharge and gain fresh perspectives, which he brings back to his medical practice, enriching both his personal and professional life.

Syed Hussaini

Nephrology:

Chet Desai MD

Mustafa Ali MD

Nic Hristea, MD

Wasay Humayun, MD

Chet Desai MD

Mustafa Ali MD

Nic Hristea, MD

Wasay Humayun, MD

Neurology:

Dr. Rany Aburashed

Taofik Nasrat, MD

Dr. Rany Aburashed

Dr. Rany Aburashed is the Corporate Chief Medical Officer and Chief of Sub-Specialty Services at Insight. Dr. Aburashed completed his undergraduate studies in psychology and world religion at Albion College, graduating with honors. He received the Michigan Medical Grant to attend Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he received his doctorate in 2006. After completing his neurology residency, Dr. Aburashed served as the chief resident at Michigan State University/Sparrow Hospital.

Following his education, Dr. Aburashed went on to be the founder of Memorial Healthcare’s Institute for Neurosciences and Multiple Sclerosis. Before joining Insight’s executive leadership team, Dr. Aburashed previously served as the Chair of Neurology and Chair of specialty services at Memorial Healthcare.

He has extensive research experience in the neuroimmunology space, serving as primary investigator on over 30 phase 1-4 clinical trials. In addition to this, he is best known for his work using single molecule array assay technology to assess protein biomarkers in multiple sclerosis patients. Dr. Aburashed’s primary research interest is in precision disease management using neurofilament light and biomarker profiles to better understand treatment effects in multiple sclerosis.

Dr. Aburashed has been featured on CNN, Nasdaq, Yahoo News, and multiple other news outlets regarding his clinical expertise and lectures both nationally and internationally on his work.

Taofik Nasrat, MD

Dr. Taofik Nasrat is a board-certified neurologist at Insight. Dr. Nasrat specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of neurological conditions and disorders, including seizure, stroke, dementia, headache, neuropathy, and muscle disorders. Dr. Nasrat graduated from Tripoli University School of Medicine and completed his residency and fellowship training at Wayne State University, where he received the Best Resident Teacher honor. Prior to joining Insight, Dr. Nasrat worked as a neurologist at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Illinois and at Zawia School of Medicine in Zawia, Libya. He has also been published in numerous medical journals and is a member of the American Academy of Neurology. Dr. Nasrat is passionate about creating an open, safe, and supportive environment for his patients, and is currently accepting new patients at our Dearborn and Warren locations.

Pain Clinic:

Dr. Salman Sagarwala

Dr. Salman Sagarwala

Dr. Salman Sagarwala is a double-board certified anesthesiologist and interventional pain physician who serves as the medical director of pain management at Insight Hospital & Medical Center Chicago. His philosophy places an emphasis on preventing pain from becoming persistent and working towards improving functionality and quality of life through a collaborative and compassionate patient-centered approach.

He emphasizes trying to manage pain without relying on opioid medications and instead using a multi-disciplinary approach involving psychologists, physical therapists, and complementary/integrative modalities. In addition to traditional treatments, Dr. Sagarwala has extensive training in the most advanced, innovative, and minimally invasive techniques to provide his patients long-term durable results. In his spare time he enjoys playing piano, traveling, and spending quality time with his wife and dog.

Pulmonology & Critical Care

Samran Haider

Sajid Mehmood, MD

Yasir Farah, MD

Samran Haider

Dr. Samran Haider, a distinguished physician in the fields of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, has carved a remarkable career path marked by exceptional clinical expertise and leadership roles. Currently serving as a Pulmonary and Critical Care attending and the Chief of Critical Care Medicine at Insight Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago since April 2023, Dr. Haider’s contributions to the medical field are both profound and impactful.
His journey towards excellence commenced with a solid educational foundation, earning his M.B., B.S. from Dow University of Health Sciences in Karachi, Pakistan. Driven by a passion for understanding diseases and their treatment, he embarked on a path of continuous learning and professional development. He completed residency in Internal Medicine at Detroit Medical Centre/Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. Subsequently, he pursued fellowship training in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at the same institution, further refining his expertise in managing complex respiratory and critical care cases.
Throughout his career, Dr. Haider has been actively involved in research, focusing on infectious diseases, respiratory complications, and epidemiology. His contributions to medical literature include several peer-reviewed journal articles and abstract presentations, shedding light on critical aspects of healthcare delivery and patient management. His work has been cited over 200 times by his peers.
In addition to his clinical and research commitments, Dr. Haider is dedicated to advancing medical education and quality improvement initiatives. He has been recognized for his teaching abilities and serves as core faculty for internal medicine at Insight Hospital and medical center.
Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep-rooted commitment to patient care, Dr. Haider stands as a beacon of inspiration in the field of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, shaping the future of healthcare through his exemplary leadership, teaching abilities and clinical acumen.

Sajid Mehmood, MD

Yasir Farah, MD

Rheumatology:

Sarah Saeed

Sarah Saeed

PGY 1

Abdul Ghani Hammoud

Abdulrahman Al-Qaysi

Fahad Salman

Hafsa Kazmi

Hyder Ali

Maheen Shareef

Abdul Ghani Hammoud

Abdulrahman Al-Qaysi

Fahad Salman

Hafsa Kazmi

Hyder Ali

Maheen Shareef

PGY 2

Abbas Farooqui

Amna Khan

Apoorva Pandharpurkar

Atif Muhammad

Ayesha Khan

Blessing George

Desmond Boakye Tanoh

Farwah Shah

Hamzah Sultan

Hossam Abdel Aziz

Manar Ismail

Mizba Baksh

Muhammad Asim Dayala

Nader Guma

Sabri Elmansouri

Sadia Usmani

Samah Jaleel

Sundus Basheer

Tarek Slibi

Abbas Farooqui

Abbas was born and raised in Lucknow, India, where he attended the distinguished La Martiniere College. He pursued his medical education at China Medical University in Shenyang, earning multiple scholarships including the Central Government Scholarship for Meritorious Students, which he received twice. Abbas was the founding president of the student union for international students and was elected class representative every year during his medical studies. Now at Insight, he contributes his unwavering dedication, passion, leadership, and efficiency to his training and community service. Outside of his professional endeavors, Abbas enjoys exploring new restaurants, engaging in debates, participating in trivia, traveling, and watching soccer.

Education:China Medical University, Shenyang

Amna Khan

Hey there, I’m Amna, your friendly neighborhood PGY1 Internal Medicine Resident. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Karachi, Pakistan, I’m a proud second child, first daughter, and the sole doctor in my big, bustling family. Since I was a kid, I’ve been fascinated by the notion of being a doctor. It’s been a lifelong dream that I’ve chased with all my heart. One thing you’ll learn about me real quick-I love meeting new people, hearing their stories, and sharing a laugh or two. When I’m not engrossed in medical charts, you’ll find me pursuing adventures. Traveling serves as my ultimate means of escape and exploration. There’s something magical about getting lost in a new place, soaking up different cultures, and finding beauty in the unexpected. But amidst all the excitement, I’m driven by a deep sense of purpose. I’ve got big dreams, and I’m not afraid to chase them down. My journey through residency is fueled by passion, dedication, and a whole lot of heart. So, whether I’m diving into a new case or exploring uncharted territories, I’m here to make a difference. Because in the end, it’s not just about the destination-it’s about the lives we touch along the way. Catch you around the wards!

Education:United Medical and Dental School

Apoorva Pandharpurkar

I grew up in Hyderabad, India and enjoyed various hobbies like swimming, painting, playing board games (especially Scrabble), traveling and reading fiction. I have always had a good memory for seemingly useless trivia and I participated in and conducted several trivia events during medical school. I moved to the US for residency in 2023 and absolutely love the energy, vibrancy and diversity of Chicago. Within the busy day-to-days of residency, I have found unlimited opportunities for personal growth and have built lasting friendships with all my co-workers who have been my biggest support system. I look forward to all we will achieve together as a program and the diligent service we strive to provide to our community.

Publications:

1. Awareness of post exposure prophylaxis for human immunodeficiency virus among healthcare professionals in a tertiary care hospital in Telangana, South India. https://www.ijcmph.com/index.php/ijcmph/article/view/9646

2. A study on prevalence of dry eyes among menopausal women attending a tertiary care centre in Hyderabad, Telangana. https://www.ijcmph.com/index.php/ijcmph/article/view/3989

Education:Gandhi Medical College, Secunderabad

Atif Muhammad

With three years of research experience in medical and psychiatric fields and two and a half years in performance improvement at a 150-bed hospital-serving roles such as Sepsis Manager and leading quality initiatives for psychiatric and OB/GYN units-I bring a diverse background to my residency program. My clinical experience is broad, including various externships across inpatient and outpatient medicine, psychiatry, pathology, neurology, and geriatrics. Additionally, I worked under a restricted license in Missouri during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing care in an outpatient setting.

Publications:

Poster Presentations
Compean, R., Dhingra, M., Hussain, A., and Muhammad, A. (2020, December 05). Covid 19 and new onset psychosis: A Case Report. NHS/Paramus, NJ, USA.
Muhammad, A., Sahib-Din, J., Oczkos, P., and Hussain, A. (2020, December 05). Hypothalamic -pituitary axis dysregulation in depressed adolescent male: A Case Report. NHS/Paramus, NJ, USA.

Peer Reviewed Online Publications
Korro, R., Najeemuddin, S., Vadukapuram, R., Muhammad, A. Corticosteroid-Induced Mania: A case discussion. European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2017 Mar 7;4(4).
Muhammad,A. An Introduction to Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Depression. Journal of Humanistic Psychiatry. 2016 Dec 13;4(2):18-23.
Muhammad,A. The Future of Sports and Psychiatry. Journal of Humanistic Psychiatry. 2016 June 30;4(2):10-15.

Education (Undergrad):University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Education (MD School):Xavier University School of Medicine

Education (Grad School):Webster University

Ayesha Khan

Ayesha was born in Hyderabad, India. She completed her undergraduate and medical education in India. After completing her medical education, she moved to the U.S. in 2013 to join her husband in Chicago, Illinois.

Education (Undergrad):Vikas Vidyaniketan Jr. College, Hyderabad, India

Education (MD School):Kamineni Institute of Medical Sciences, Narketpally, Telangana, India

Blessing George

Blessing’s journey from her roots in Nigeria to her current path in medicine and public health in the United States is one marked by determination, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. Beginning her medical education in the Caribbean, she transitioned to the US during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, sparking her interest in public health. Pursuing an MPH at Johns Hopkins, she delved into community engagement, serving as Vice-President of the African Public Health Network and leading initiatives to address healthcare disparities. Her dedication extended to her residency, where she has discovered a passion for pulmonary diseases and critical care, envisioning a future in intensive care medicine to provide compassionate care to critically ill patients.

Publications:

https://www.onlinescientificresearch.com/articles/the-covid19-effects-on-the-cardiovascular-system-a-focus-on-myocarditis.pdf

Education (MD School):All Saints University, School of Medicine, Dominica

Education (Graduate School): Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD.

Desmond Boakye Tanoh

Desmond is a proud Ghanaian who hails from the vibrant city of Accra. He obtained his Doctor of Medicine degree in Volgograd, Russia, and conducted research in myocardial ischemic/reperfusion injury at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is passionate about cardiology and mentoring students. Outside of work, he enjoys tennis, hiking, road trips, and movies!

Publications:

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Desmond-Boakye-Tanoh

Education (Undergrad):University of Ghana

Education (MD School):Volgograd State Medical University

Farwah Shah

I consider myself fortunate to have lived in three different countries, studied at UC Berkeley, and worked at Stanford. Although not completely decided on a specific clinical interest, I am interested in Hospital Medicine. My passions include teaching and patient education, hospital management, and enhancing quality in healthcare, however, I am open to exploring all aspects of medicine. Apart from my medical pursuits, I enjoy outdoor activities and cherish moments with my family and friends. I also indulge in drawing, hiking, cooking, listening to music, and avidly follow cricket.

Education (Undergrad):MPH University of California, Berkeley

Education (MD School):Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore

Hamzah Sultan

Hossam Abdel Aziz

Manar Ismail

Manar was born in Gaza, Palestine, and raised in Saudi Arabia and Yemen before relocating to the U.S. in 2016. He completed his high school education in Saudi Arabia and pursued medical school in Yemen and Georgia, gaining exposure to diverse cultures and community backgrounds across various geographic locations. Manar worked as a clinical research assistant at the Insight Research Institute in Flint, Michigan, and also served in Flint’s community free medical clinics for two years. He has a passion for cooking, enjoys watching cooking shows, meeting new people, and traveling.

Publications:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34359780/

Education (Undergrad):Aden University Yemen

Education (MD School):Akaki Tsereteli University – Georgia

Mizba Baksh

Mizba was born in India and spent her formative years until high school in Kuwait. Her physician dream was supported by her family’s firm belief in her hardworking spirit and commitment to lifelong learning. She completed medical school from India to be the first generation graduate and doctor in the family. Mizba’s remarkable journey full of rich experiences from India all the way to securing a residency in US, reflects her relentless pursuit to fulfill that childhood dream. She is committed to offering evidence-based, compassionate care to her patients, as she would to her own family members. Mizba is recognized for her calm demeanor that distinguishes her as a self-reliant and focused team member. In her spare time, Mizba cherishes the time spent with her 5-year old and husband, and enjoys cooking family’s favorites, yoga, sketching, badminton (an English racquet sport), and watching documentaries. She is still deciding about fellowship but loves everything internal medicine and aims to build a strong foundation during her training to be an internist.

Publications:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?cmd=search&dispmax=50&term=Mizba%20Baksh

Education:Hadan Institute of Medical Sciences, teaching hospital and research center, Hyderabad, India

Muhammad Asim Dayala

Originally from Karachi, Pakistan, I graduated from Ziauddin University in 2016 and spent 2.5 years working there post-graduation. In 2020, I made the exciting move to Chicago. Passionate about sports, especially cricket, I also have a deep love for travel and exploration. Additionally, I am keen on pursuing a critical care fellowship to further my career in healthcare. I have the distinction of being the longest-tenured staff member at Insight Hospital.

Education:Ziauddin Medical College

Nader Guma

I am originally from the Western Mountain region of Libya and hold the distinction of being the first doctor in my family. My medical interests are broad, with a particular focus on cardiology and cardiac imaging. I am a certified cardiac sonographer and formerly served as an adjunct professor at South Suburban College, teaching echocardiography before commencing my residency. I also hold a Master of Public Health (MPH), underscoring my commitment to public health.

Outside of my professional pursuits, I am passionate about traveling, cooking, biking, playing volleyball, and enjoying quality time with family and friends.

Education:University of Tripoli

Interesting fact:efore fully committing to my medical career, I successfully founded and operated a car dealership business.

Sabri Elmansouri

I was born and raised in Benghazi, Libya, and I am the youngest and only physician in my family. My hobbies and interests include horse riding, writing poetry, traveling, volunteering, and participating in humanitarian missions. A fun fact about me is that I am a professional Nasheed singer. I have achieved notable recognition in this field, securing 1st place in a national competition across Libya and 6th place in a competition spanning Arab countries. My most recent concert was held at McCormick Place in Chicago, attended by 20,000 people.

Education (Undergrad):University of Benghazi

Education (MD School):University of Benghazi – Faculty of Medicine

Education (Postgraduate ):Master of Public Health (MPH), Benedictine University

Sadia Usmani

I identify myself as a global citizen, born and raised in Saudi Arabia, the US, England, and Pakistan. Each stage of my journey has been marked by significant milestones, but perhaps the most enriching aspect has been the roles I seamlessly inhabit every day – as a mother, daughter, wife, sister, and doctor. I love chai, playing video games with my kids, talking to my mom on my way to work, having long, endless conversations with my husband about life, and bringing a smile to my patients’ faces. As I continue to navigate the intricate web of life and medicine, I remain committed to serving with empathy, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Publications:

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sadia-Usmani-3

Education:Dow University of Health and Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan

Samah Jaleel

I am a Chicago native who pursued my medical education in India. I have a passion for exploring new places, staying active through workouts and snowboarding, and indulging in the diverse culinary scene of my hometown. With aspirations to specialize in allergy/immunology following residency, I’m dedicated to making a difference in patient care and research.

Publications:

Case report submitted to chest

Education:Shadan Institute of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital & Research Centre

Sundus Basheer

Sundus was born in Los Angeles, California but moved to the suburbs of Chicago where she was raised for most of her life. She attended school at the Illinois Institute of Technology where she studied biomedical engineering and fell in love with the Bronzeville community while volunteering at after school programs and soup kitchens. She attended medical school at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine and is excited to be back to serving the Bronzeville community and hopes to be an advocate for her patients!

Education:New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine

Tarek Slibi

I completed my medical studies at the University of Damascus, Syria, and subsequently undertook my residency in Diagnostic Radiology at Damascus Hospital. After working as a Radiologist for a year and a half, I was compelled to leave Syria due to the ongoing conflict and immigrated to the United States. In the U.S., I diversified my professional experience, taking on various roles including that of a clinical research coordinator. Concurrently, I prepared for my USMLE exams and completed multiple rotations in internal medicine, broadening my expertise and adapting to the healthcare landscape in the U.S.

Education:Damascus University

PGY 3

Harsh Sura

Israr Khan

Jeremiah Lynch Dore

Mohamad Nawar

Mohamed Elhaj

Numaan Ahmed

Omar Taleb

Sean Paknoosh

Seif Hayek

Shafaq Taj

Syed Ahad Samad

Harsh Sura

Coming from a non-medical background, my early passion for helping others has always driven me. An interesting aspect of my journey is that I studied at two different medical schools and completed two distinct residency programs. From my time as a goalkeeper for my college soccer team to presenting at numerous national conferences, I have continuously refined my critical thinking skills. It is in these challenging settings that I thrive, and I see myself making a substantial impact in the medical field.

Publications:

https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/circ.148.suppl_1.17863
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chest.2023.07.3239
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chest.2023.07.1232
https://doi.org/10.1161/circ.146.suppl_1.13524
https://doi.org/10.1161/circ.144.suppl_1.10416
https://doi.org/10.1161/circ.146.suppl_1.11020
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chest.2021.07.1003
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chest.2023.07.309
https://abstractsresults.acponline.org/Abstract?id=130542
https://shmabstracts.org/abstract/statin-use-and-outcomes-in-stroke-patients-with-ldl/
https://shmabstracts.org/abstract/burden-of-treatment-in-heart-failure-follow-up-study/
https://shmabstracts.org/abstract/impact-of-elevated-troponin-t-in-hospitalized-patients-with-esrd/

Education:B.J Medical College, Ahmedabad, India

Israr Khan

Israr was born and raised in Pakistan. He graduated with top honors in biology and health sciences/pre-medical from ICMS Peshawar and went on to complete his medical education at Bolan Medical College. After medical school, he completed his internship at a tertiary teaching hospital in Peshawar before moving to the US with his family. Due to his unwavering mission in medicine and dedication to community service, Israr was awarded the MAGMRC Humanitarian Award and Georgia Commendation Medal for services during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. He has held various roles, including clinical intern, extern, and research collaborator. He is a member of several professional societies. Currently, Israr is exploring a subspecialty fellowship in Heme-Onc or Cardiology. In his spare time, he enjoys photography, playing sports, traveling, cooking, and reading non-medical books.

Publication:

Israr Khan – Search Results – PubMed (nih.gov)
Israr Khan, MD – ‪Google Scholar

Education (Undergrad):ICMC College System for Boys

Education (MD School):Bolan Medical College

Email:israr.khan@insightchicago.com

Jeremiah Lynch Dore

Chicago born and raised. My interests include live music, trying new restaurants/foods, and swimming. My future plans are to become a hospitalist and owner of a med spa. 🧖

Education (Undergrad):Creighton University

Education (MD School):Windsor University School of Medicine

Mohamad Nawar

Mohamed Elhaj

Originally from Sudan, I was born and raised in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, completing my early education there. After high school, I returned to Sudan for medical school. I moved to the U.S. in 2020 and undertook my first year of residency in New York City. In my spare time, I enjoy playing basketball, hitting the gym, and discovering new restaurants and foods.

Education:University of Medical Science and Technology (UMST)

Numaan Ahmed

Omar Taleb

I was born in Scarborough Ontario, grew up in Tripoli Lebanon, and lived to explore the tropical islands during medical school where I received my medical diploma. I enjoy traveling and have been on a journey of living in multiple countries and states across the US. I love the art of medicine and I am sure you will always find me promoting a healthy lifestyle through fitness and through proper diet. I am the epitome of “practice what you preach”. I recently have been selected to present an abstract on Gastrinoma at the National Poster competition at the ACP Internal Medicine meeting 2024 in Boston Massachusetts. My hobbies include horseback riding, basketball, rock climbing, hiking, swimming, reading and of course my favorite game of chess!

Education:Caribbean Medical University School of Medicine

Sean Paknoosh

Sean hails from the vibrant city of Los Angeles and pursued his academic journey at the University of California, San Diego, where he attained both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in Biology. During his time there, Sean delved deep into the world of molecular mechanisms and genetics, focusing specifically on cardiac remodeling in the model organism, Drosophila melanogaster (the fruit fly). Sean was also a teaching assistant in 3 different undergraduate courses and received the Excellence in Teaching Award from his university. He attended medical school at Midwestern University in Chicago, where he continued to hone his skills and broaden his knowledge in the medical field. Outside of his academic and professional endeavors, Sean finds joy and fulfillment in spending time with his loved ones, traveling, and exploring new gastronomies as well as the art of coffee brewing.

Education (Undergrad):University of California, San Diego

Education (MD School):Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine

Email:sean.paknoosh@insightchicago.com

Seif Hayek

Seif was born in Jordan and raised in Qatar before pursuing his medical studies in Bahrain. He began his medical career in the United States, completing his first year of residency at Palisades Medical Center-Hackensack in New Jersey. He is currently advancing his medical training as an internal medicine resident at Insight. Seif has a wide range of hobbies, such as soccer, tennis, running, and painting. He is passionate about practicing medicine and aspires to specialize in pulmonary/critical care medicine.

Education:Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland / Medical University of Bahrain

Email:seif.hayek@insightchicago.com

Shafaq Taj

Education:Deccan College of Medical Sciences

Syed Ahad Samad

Education:St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine (Grand Cayman)

The program provides a wide array of both inpatient and outpatient educational opportunities, and the schedule is coordinated by the chief residents. These experiences are meticulously planned to meet the standards set by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) while addressing the educational and professional needs of our residents. Through careful planning and oversight, residents benefit from a robust curriculum that encompasses diverse clinical settings, ensuring comprehensive training and preparation for future practice.

Rotations

Over the course of a three-year residency, you will have the opportunity to rotate on the following services:

Ambulatory Care

Residents will have a half-day clinic per week throughout the year, providing ample experience and ensuring continuity of care. This consistent schedule allows residents to build rapport and establish long-term relationships with their patients. Furthermore, clinics are supervised by experienced faculty, ensuring residents receive guidance and mentorship as they navigate their clinical responsibilities and develop their skills as healthcare providers.

All internal medicine service rotations are conducted at the main clinical hospital, providing residents with comprehensive exposure to inpatient care. For ambulatory care medicine, residents engage in clinical experiences at three distinct locations: the Insight Internal Medicine Clinic, the Iman Clinic, and the Hayat Clinic. This diverse range of settings allows residents to gain valuable experience in outpatient care while serving diverse patient populations and addressing various healthcare needs within the community.

 

Hospital Medicine

Ambulatory Medicine

Insight Hospital & Medical Center

Insight Internal Medicine Clinic

Iman Clinic

Hayat Clinic


 


 


 


 

2525 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

2744 W. 63rd Street, Chicago, Illinois, 60629

6350 N Maplewood Ave, Chicago, IL 60659

Morning Report

Dates: Wednesday and Fridays

Objectives: Enhance learning and broaden knowledge among residents based on the admitted cases. It also serves as a platform for demonstrating and honing teaching skills, refine presentation abilities, and foster leadership skills.

Format: One or multiple cases are selected by the presenter, usually a member of the admitting team, and loosely presented. The audience is encouraged to engage in discussion regarding the management, diagnosis, and outcome of the case. The event may have selected topics for discussion or discussion topics are developed by participants during the event.

Attendance: All residents of the night teams and the inpatient medicine services. The morning report is moderated by the chief resident and/or a full-time faculty.

Mortality & Morbidity

Dates: The second Tuesday of the month.

Objectives: Encompass quality improvement, clinical reasoning enhancement, fostering professional development, improving communication skills, addressing ethical and legal considerations, and promoting patient-centered care.

Format: The case is selected by an attending physician and discussed with the chief resident/APD/PD. The senior resident involved in the case is responsible for reviewing the case, prepare the presentation (as per template), and present during the conference. All involved residents should participate with their input and comments during the conference. Teaching points should be clearly identified and presented.

Attendance: All residents, chief resident, and the supervising attending. All other faculty members are encouraged to attend.

Case Presentation

Dates: The first Tuesday of the month.

Objectives: Enhance clinical reasoning, deepen medical knowledge, and improve evidence-based practices through concise case summaries and clear articulation of diagnostic reasoning and management plans with discussion of the main topic of the case. In addition, residents gain PowerPoint and presentation techniques.

Format: PGY2/3 residents will choose an interesting case supervised by an attending physician, APD or PD. The case is prepared by the resident and reviewed by the supervising attending prior to the event. The topic of the case should be presented with evidence-based approach to support diagnostics and management. It is required that each PGY2/3 resident conduct at least one case presentation per year.

Attendance: All internal medicine residents, chief resident, and the supervising attending. All other faculty members are encouraged to attend.

Journal Club

Dates: The first Thursday of the month.

Objectives: Enhance scholarly productivity among residents, teaching them how to critically appraise research in the literature and consistently keep abreast of new evidence in clinical practice.

Format: Residents will choose a recent article or an older guideline-modifying study to present in a journal club fashion. Articles should be recent, from the past three months, and intended to answer a research question, preferably through a randomized control trial. However, other types of research, such as meta-analyses, retrospective studies, and case-control studies, are also acceptable. The Chief Resident, attending physicians, and APD/PD can help choose the topic. The article is prepared by the resident and reviewed by the supervising attending. Two to three articles are discussed in each journal club. It is required that residents make two journal club presentations per year.

Attendance: All internal medicine residents, chief resident, and the supervising attending. All other faculty members are encouraged to attend.

Internal Medicine & Ambulatory Care Topic Lectures

Dates:
Ambulatory topic lectures on Tuesdays
Internal medicine on Thursdays and Tuesdays when no other activities are scheduled.

Objectives: Provide residents with comprehensive knowledge of various specialties, including cardiology, pulmonology, critical care, gastroenterology, infectious diseases, hematology/oncology, nephrology, neurology, endocrinology, and rheumatology. Sessions focus on understanding pathophysiology, diagnostics, and evidence-based management of commonly encountered diseases, while promoting critical thinking and lifelong learning.
Format: PowerPoint presentations by the attending physicians and invited speakers.
Attendance: All internal medicine residents and the chief resident. All other faculty members are encouraged to attend.

Hospital Grand Round

Dates: Third Tuesday of the month.
Objectives: Provide continuing education, clinical updates, interdisciplinary collaboration, research dissemination, and professional development.
Format: Presentations by attending physicians from different general and specialized internal medicine departments. Organized at the hospital level.
Attendance: All residents, attendings, and other hospital staff.

Hospital Departments Lectures

Dates: On selected academic days during the buzz sessions.
Objectives: Familiarize residents with key components of hospital systems and their impact on clinical practice. Topic may include clinical documentation improvement (CDI), management of ethical dilemmas, risk management, infection control, nutritional assessment and EMR tips. By gaining insight into these areas, residents can navigate ethical dilemmas, optimize documentation, mitigate risks, prevent infections, and promote proper nutrition, ultimately enhancing the quality and safety of patient care.

Format:
 PowerPoint presentations and discussion by the different representatives of hospital department.
Attendance: All internal medicine residents and the chief resident.

Medical Jeopardy

Dates: The third Thursday of the month.

Objectives: Enhance medical knowledge, teamwork, and clinical reasoning by challenging residents to recall and apply key concepts across disciplines. It fosters collaboration, professionalism, and engagement while providing a fun way to reinforce learning and build camaraderie within the residency community.

Format: The format of Medical Jeopardy typically follows the structure of the popular television game show “Jeopardy.” In this format, residents are divided into teams and presented with clinical scenarios or questions across various medical categories, such as cardiology, pulmonology, infectious diseases, etc. Each question is assigned a point value based on its difficulty level. Teams select questions and attempt to answer them within a specified time frame. Correct answers earn points, while incorrect answers may result in point deductions or opportunities for other teams to “steal” points. The team with the highest score at the end of the game wins.

Attendance: All internal medicine residents and the chief resident. All other faculty members are encouraged to attend.

Resident 360

Dates: The fourth Tuesday of the month.

Objectives: Prepare residents for the practical challenges and responsibilities they will encounter in their careers beyond residency, promoting their success and well-being in the transition to independent practice

Format: Faculty members and invited speakers focus on equipping residents with essential knowledge and skills for life after graduation. Topics include providing financial literacy education on managing student loans and personal finances, offering guidance on career development such as job searches and fellowship applications, educating residents on contract review and negotiation, facilitating the licensing process and understanding FCVS requirements, and addressing risk management considerations including malpractice insurance and legal implications.

Attendance: All internal medicine residents and the chief resident.

Buzz Session

Dates: The second Thursdays of the month.

Objectives: Enhance resident satisfaction and well-being by providing a platform for residents to express feedback and discuss program-related issues and support resources. Additionally, the gatherings foster a sense of community and collaboration between residents and GME leadership and promote a supportive learning environment and continuous improvement of the residency program. This session facilitates effective issue resolution and promote transparency regarding important updates and policy changes within the program and the hospital.

Format: Informal gatherings of internal medicine residents with Graduate Medical Education (GME) leadership fostering open communication to address resident concerns and issues promptly

Attendance: All internal medicine residents and the chief resident.

Special Workshop Sessions

Dates: To be announced (will replace a full academic day).

Objectives: Enhance practical skills in mechanical ventilation, line insertion, intubation, and mega code simulations. These sessions aim to improve proficiency, confidence, teamwork, and communication skills in critical procedures and clinical scenarios commonly encountered in internal medicine practice, ultimately ensuring high-quality and safe patient care.

Format: Simulation sessions at UIC SIM lab or in the hospital.

Attendance: All internal medicine residents and the chief resident.

Bootcamp

Dates: First two weeks of July on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Objectives: Provide new residents with a comprehensive review of emergent and essential topics, including foundational medical knowledge, recognition and management of emergent medical conditions, procedural skills, communication and teamwork in high-stress situations, patient safety principles, and clinical decision-making.

Format: Presentations by attending physicians from different general and specialized internal medicine fields.

Attendance: All incoming residents, in addition to all other residents and chief resident.

The Mentorship Program within the Internal Medicine Residency at Insight Hospital and Medical Center aims to bridge the gap between academic study and clinical practice, providing structured guidance and support for residents. Through mentor-mentee partnerships, residents receive personalized guidance in professional development, career pathways, and work-life balance. Structured meetings, selection criteria, and evaluation mechanisms ensure the program’s effectiveness and confidentiality. Each incoming intern will be assigned two resident mentors and one faculty mentor to provide comprehensive support and guidance throughout their residency journey. Through regular meetings and personalized mentorship, interns receive valuable insights, advice, and resources to navigate their career paths effectively within the Internal Medicine Residency Program at Insight Hospital and Medical Center.

Residents in our program have access to valuable resources dedicated to research and professional development. Regularly scheduled lectures throughout the year cover an array of high-impact topics, spanning the fundamentals and classifications of research, as well as comprehensive guidance on planning, drafting, and presenting research projects. Faculty members actively mentor residents, facilitating discussions and offering constructive feedback in a nurturing environment aimed at honing research skills and advancing project development. This initiative underscores the program’s dedication to nurturing a culture of academic curiosity and innovation among its residents.

Our residents are also actively engaged in Patient Safety Quality Improvement projects aimed at enhancing healthcare standards and patient outcomes. These projects, led by faculty, involve longitudinal efforts where resident teams conceptualize, execute, and evaluate initiatives over the course of 1.5 years during their rotations. Through collaboration with stakeholders, residents gain valuable insights into quality improvement principles and practical implementation strategies and showcase their projects in local, reginal, and national meetings.

Residents Projects

List of ongoing projects

  1. Cefepime vs piperacillin/tazobactam Safety: AKI and Neurotoxicity
  2. The use of procalcitonin response in sepsis – de-escalating antibiotic, duration of duration: retrospective. 
  3. Understanding Gender Disparities in Hypertensive Medication Adherence and Health Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study Assessing Compliance Patterns Amongst Hypertensive Patients in the Outpatient Setting
  4. Reducing Hospital Length of Stay through Effective Midline Placement
  5. Burnout Survey
  6. Improving breast cancer screening rates
  7. AI for Physician Note Documentation to Improve Clinical Outcome
  8. A retrospective chart review of CBC’s ordered within the past 1month at Insight Hospital to reveal some degree of inappropriate ordering, focused on particular patient demographics or hospital at large.
  9. Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire utility in patients with a diagnosis of Heart Failure as a predictor of heart failure-related admissions
  10. Effect of Electronic Hand Hygiene Monitoring System in improving Infection Control in the Inpatient Setting among Residents: An Observational Study
  11. Tackling No-Shows at Post Discharge Appointments for HF patients: A Health-Related Social Needs Assessment
  12. Understand the current utilization of spirometry in patients with COPD.
  13. Implementation of PHQ-9 Questionnaire in Post-stroke patients Admitted at Insight Hospital and Medical Center.
  14. Integrative Care Model for Reducing Readmissions in Patients with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
  15. Implementing the “GOLD” Care Approach to COPD Patients Admitted at Insight Hospital & Medical Center, Chicago.
  16. Heart failure readmission rate at Insight Hospital and Medical Center.
  17. What factors contribute to the high rate of patient non-compliance with scheduled appointments at primary care physician (PCP) clinics, and how can healthcare providers implement effective strategies to improve appointment attendance and overall patient engagement?”
  18. How POC echo to diagnose shortness of breath compared to confirmed diagnosis (heart failure, embolism, COPD, pnuemonia, MI), retrospective data and cost effectiveness
  19. Code Blue improvement project
  20. Would the practice of engaging patients in maintaining data logs of BP and BG measurements improve overall medication compliance and HbA1c values?
  21. Handoff process between teams MD;MD and outcomes
  22. CURB-65 assessment in ER COPD and prediction  of mortality rate
  23. Hospice Transition Plan
Applications are exclusively accepted through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). Our program utilizes Thalamus software for interview scheduling. We do not impose minimum USMLE scores criteria. Additionally, the program exclusively sponsors J-1 visas for international applicants. When submitting the MyERAS application, applicants should include the following documents:
  1. Personal Statement
  2. Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE)
  3. Transcript from medical school
  4. Letters of recommendation
    1. One letter from Department of Medicine Chair
    2. One letter from Regional Dean or Director for medical schools who do not have a Department of Medicine.
    3. One letter from an Internal Med Attending
    4. Additional 3rd letter from any other faculty with whom you have worked (preferably within Internal Medicine)
  5. USMLE results (Step 1 and Step 2 CK)
  6. COMLEX scores can be submitted by Osteopathic applicants.
  7. ECFMG Certificate (if International Applicant) – You must be ECFMG certified prior to any interview.

Salary for Residents

A sample contract may be found here: Link 

2024-2025 RESIDENT/FELLOW ANNUAL SALARIES

PGY-1 $56,707

PGY-2 $58,504

PGY-3 $61,138

PGY-4 $64,252

PGY-5 $67,456

PGY-6 $69,180

PGY-7 $71,272