Department of Medicine at UCLA Health

We are thrilled to introduce you to the DoM's strategic plan brochure: bit.ly/46SxjdY. This brochure provides access to a high-level overview of how we plan to guide the growth of our core mission areas over the next years. We hope you are inspired to join us as LEADERS!

Check out new research from DoM fellow, Dr. Deborah Oyeyemi Walton! Her study reveals persistent disparities in end-of-life care for older adults with dementia, highlighting systemic barriers beyond physician differences. Learn more here: uclahs.fyi/40zNWdx

In the lead-up to Match Day, we’re celebrating the growth and achievements of our UCLA IM residents! Second-year resident Dr. Enat Arega reflects on her journey thus far, from gaining clinical confidence to stepping into a leadership role. Check it out!

Meet Xinyu Hartshorn, a DoM LEADER advancing health equity through research at the Center for Asian Health and AIR-P. From data analysis to accessible communications, Xinyu’s dedication and creativity make an impact every day. Get to know her here: uclahs.fyi/4lmWQVp

With Match Day just around the corner, we’re spotlighting the journeys of our UCLA IM residents! Dr. Melia Takakusagi reflects on her first 3 months, sharing how she’s grown as a clinician and found community and mentorship at UCLA. Watch here!

What does it mean to lead with curiosity? Dr. Tara Vijayan, medical director of the UCLA CARE Clinic, exemplifies compassion and humanism in patient care, earning her the Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award. Learn more here: uclahs.fyi/40ToOOZ

Match Day is almost here and we can hardly wait, so this week we’re highlighting the stories of our amazing residents! Today, Dr. Abhinav Thummala shares his passion for cardiology, his growth over his first year and the support that’s guided his journey. Watch here!

It's Science Monday! This week, Dr. Abel highlights the exceptional contributions of UCLA DoM faculty to scientific and medical literature. From public policy to groundbreaking discoveries, their work continues to inspire and advance health for all: uclahs.fyi/3PdCn9t

As we gear up for Match Day, we’re celebrating the incredible journeys of our UCLA IM residents! Third-year resident Dr. Esther Kim reflects on her growth, mentorship and friendships that have shaped her path toward becoming an academic hospitalist. Watch here!

Grateful for the opportunity to direct our 14th Annual UCLA Mellinkoff GI and Hepatology Course! Fabulous talks by our faculty and great interaction w our colleagues in attendance! @UCLAGIHep @esrailian @UCLAHealth @DOM_UCLA

Last month, UCLA Health physicians joined the American Heart Association’s "Valley to Ventura Breakfast in Red" event to raise awareness about women’s heart health. The panel highlighted female-specific risk factors and the importance of prevention: uclahs.fyi/4rk8gug

In March's Day in the Life feature, we spotlight Dr. Tanaz Kermani, lead rheumatologist at Santa Monica Rheumatology and founder of the UCLA Health Vasculitis Program. Discover how she’s transforming care for patients with complex autoimmune conditions: uclahs.fyi/4beshg2

Congratulations to Dr. Michelle Hwang who has been appointed to the DoM Professional Education Committee! A dedicated nephrologist and wellness champion, she is committed to advancing faculty education and physician well-being. Read the full story: uclahs.fyi/4uyFHMK

Healthy aging starts with heart health. Last moth, the UCLA Women’s Cardiovascular Center hosted its 11th annual "Let’s Talk Women’s Heart Health" event, featuring expert talks, patient stories and actionable insights for women of all ages. Learn more: uclahs.fyi/4rhFOcr

We're celebrating Women’s History Month! This week, Dr. Abel highlights the incredible contributions of DoM women LEADERS across our missions of patient care, research, education and community engagement. Learn about their impact today and every day: uclahs.fyi/3N3SqpL

After receiving the Robert H. Williams Distinguished Chair of Medicine Award, Dr. Abel shared reflections on leadership in medicine and gratitude for the colleagues, family and team who make his work possible. Read his insights here: uclahs.fyi/4l75vuY

Huge congratulations to Drs. Antoni Ribas, Sarah Larson, and Dennis Slamon on being named 2026 Los Angeles Business Journal Top Doctors! Their groundbreaking research and dedication to patient care are transforming lives in our LA community and beyond: uclahs.fyi/4sm6bPz

Hospitalist Spotlight! Dr. Jatin Chhabra from UCLA West Valley Medical Center was recently recognized in a glowing patient review for his compassionate, patient-centered care. Learn how his communication and empathy made a lasting impact here: uclahs.fyi/40BF6fh

Last month, DoM faculty came together for the 10th Annual DMPG Retreat to discuss progress on the DoM Strategic Plan. Learn about key updates on faculty retention, clinical trials, education initiatives and patient care strategies here: uclahs.fyi/47jTyMF

In this week’s newsletter, Dr. Abel highlights the exceptional patient care provided by DoM clinical faculty, recognizing their dedication to serving thousands across our region and beyond. Read all about their impactful work here: uclahs.fyi/3MSyKoM

Congratulations to Dr. James S. Lee on his appointment as community clinical chief of cardiology! In this role, he will advance clinical care, foster professional development and strengthen community programs across the division of cardiology. Read more: uclahs.fyi/4uaK1BE