Residency Program

Labor and Delivery

Residents in our program have exposure to L&D throughout their four years. At Los Angeles General Medical Center, residents are exposed to high-risk deliveries in the first, second and fourth years. External rotations at Kaiser Panorama City (R2 year) and Good Samaritan Hospital (R3 year) allow access to lower risk delivery experience and allow exposure to different care delivery models. Together at these three facilities, the residents are exposed to over 10,000 deliveries a year.

Most deliveries are performed by the junior resident under the supervision of the senior resident and faculty. The junior also is the primary surgeon for most of the cesarean sections. As Los Angeles General Medical Center is a major referral center for high-risk pregnancies, residents learn to manage patients with medical conditions ranging from diabetes to cardiac disease, as well as complications of pregnancy such as preterm labor and severe preeclampsia. The schedule is divided into day and night floats, with rare 24-hour weekend shifts. The schedule is designed to optimize continuity and be in compliance with Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) clinical hours requirements.

On Call Gynecology

The main exposure to gynecologic consultation and emergency surgeries is during the second and third years of residency. During the day, there is a 2-person team where residents respond to gyn consults from the ED and other services. There is also a separate night float rotation in the third year that allows for independence in consultation and direct training with the on-call faculty member.

Gyn Clinic/OR

Two rotations each year are focused on ambulatory and surgical gynecology at Los Angeles General Medical Center and Keck Hospital. Residents are grouped into a four-person team, one resident for each year of residency. The daily schedule rotates with one team in the clinic at Los Angeles General Medical Center, while the other team is in the operating room at either Los Angeles General Medical Center or Keck. The teams are on 24-hour call every other Saturday, covering both Labor and Delivery and Emergency Gynecology. The residents on the team participate in activities that are most appropriate for their level of training. Starting in the first year, residents act as the primary surgeon for procedures of increasing complexity, from laparoscopic tubal fulgurations for the first years to vaginal hysterectomies and repair of pelvic organ prolapse for the third years. Residents also become proficient at vaginal ultrasonography, early in their training.

Each case that goes to the operating room at Los Angeles General Medical Center has been thoroughly prepared for surgery by the residents themselves, from the initial new patient visit through preoperative consultation. With assistance from faculty and the more senior trainees on the team, the residents learn how to perform a thorough preoperative evaluation, to counsel patients on treatment options, both medical and surgical, and to develop an operative plan that is most appropriate for each patient. The gynecology rotation also provides residents with valuable interaction with senior faculty members, in both the operating room and the clinic. After four years of training, graduating residents are competent to independently manage benign gynecologic conditions, both medically and surgically.

External Surgical

Third-year residents augment their operative experience with rotations at Kaiser Permanente Panorama City, and the fourth years at Good Samaritan Hospital. Overall, more than 5,000 major and 3,000 minor gynecologic surgeries are available to residents each year. Their experiences at these locations are designed to increase their exposure to variations in care, supplement their surgical technical exposure and allow them to experience managed care and private practice models of practice. In addition, it allows exposure to the Kaiser system, which is a major employer in California.

The second- and fourth-year residents each spend one block managing high-risk antepartum patients. The team works in concert with the MFM fellow and attendings and manage both the inpatient service and the outpatient clinics. Complicated antepartum patients are managed by the MFM team, who also consult on the delivery management of complicated peripartum patients. In MFM Clinic, residents gain experience with routine and complicated prenatal care, and have specific clinics dedicated to pregnant women with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, thyroid disease, mental health issues and fetal anomalies. Direct teaching by the Maternal-Fetal Medicine faculty is abundant, both at morning pass-on rounds and during conferences several times a week.

In the first year, residents are exposed to routine prenatal care with our midwife team, and rotate in the MCA clinic, which is focused on the prenatal care of patients with HIV. The PGY1 on this rotation also works with the MFM team, learning how to provide prenatal care with the less complicated MFM patients in the outpatient setting.

Residents rotate on the REI service for one half block each during the first and second years. During the REI rotation, the residents see up to 5,700 patients in clinic annually, under the supervision of the REI fellows and faculty. Routine clinic procedures include intrauterine insemination, hydrosonography and diagnostic hysteroscopy. The clinic patient population ranges from common problems such as polycystic ovary syndrome to more rare conditions such as Müllerian agenesis. Residents also get exposure to andrology and male-factor infertility, during a monthly male clinic. REI has a dedicated operating room every week, where residents assist the fellow and are exposed to advanced laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, and tubal surgery. Finally, although in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive techniques are not offered at Los Angeles General Medical Center, interested residents are encouraged to spend time at the USC IVF Center.

Residents spend one block each year on the Gynecologic Oncology service. Here residents gain experience in critical care and the management of complicated medical and surgical cases, under the supervision of the gynecologic oncology fellows and faculty. Residents on the rotation are also active participants in the operating room four days a week. In the oncology clinic, residents see a wide range of patients, with approximately 11,000 clinic visits a year. This is also where residents learn the most about the management of dysplasia and gain experience with colposcopy and LEEP. Throughout the rotation, residents interact with faculty on a daily basis, both in the operating room and in clinic, as well as on ward rounds. Residents also participate in multidisciplinary conferences weekly, which are attended by gynecologic oncology fellows and faculty, as well as outstanding faculty in gynecologic pathology and women’s radiology.

Residents spend one block on the Urogynecology service during their second year. Residents gain exposure to the subspecialty in the urogynecology clinic. Here they become proficient in performing multi-channel cystometrics and are exposed to cystourethroscopy, botox injections, posterior tibial nerve stimulation and bladder instillations. They also become proficient in the medical and surgical management of urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. As a referral center for complicated pelvic floor dysfunction, residents are exposed to a variety of complicated pelvic floor disorders, ranging from defecatory dysfunction to congenital pelvic floor anomalies. In the operating room, residents act as primary surgeons for appropriate aspects of incontinence and pelvic floor procedures, under the supervision of the Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery fellows and faculty.

Residents rotate on the Complex Family Planning rotation during their first year. They work closely with the Family Planning fellows and faculty in the Reproductive Choice clinic to participate in and perform all of the procedures, to their comfort level. Family planning is a rotation where residents learn to provide trauma-informed care and learn to optimize their techniques for shared-decision making. We are a Ryan training program for residents and have a two-year fellowship in Family Planning.

In the third and fourth years, residents design their own clinical experience to meet their individualized learning needs for half a rotation in the third year and half a rotation in the fourth year. All rotations must be approved by the program directors and completed at a Los Angeles Department of Health Services facility. Examples have included rotations with a focus on: advanced ultrasound training, ICU care, advanced complex family planning, developing advocacy curricula, healthcare administration, and many others.

To accommodate residents taking time off for scholarly symposia, interviews, illness and other life events, we have a backup system where the backup person is assigned specifically to the backup (jeopardy) rotation. Residents on this rotation may expect to be called in most days to cross cover wherever they are needed. This allows for more focused experiences on all other rotations.

Uterine Cavity Clinic

Residents develop comfort with endometrial evaluations during the weekly Friday Uterine Cavity Clinic, which is designed to individualize evaluations with either sono-hysterography or office hysteroscopy. Residents are assigned to this clinic during various rotations throughout their four years and learn to manage abnormal uterine bleeding, with and without intracavitary lesions.

Colposcopy

Every other Friday afternoon, the gynecology clinic at Los Angeles General Medical Center hosts the Colposcopy clinic. Patients with abnormal cervical cytology are referred from across LA to have colposcopy with our team. Most low-risk colposcopy is performed by our Nurse Practitioners, while the high-risk colposcopies and occasional low risk cases are managed by the residents with direct faculty supervision.

Breast Medicine

Every other Friday afternoon, the gynecology clinic at Los Angeles General Medical Center hosts the Breast Diagnostic Center, which is staffed by faculty who are experienced in the diagnosis and management of breast disease. Residents are assigned to the clinic during various rotations throughout their four years and learn to manage patients with problems ranging from breast masses to mastalgia to granulomatous mastitis.

All residents are required to complete and present at least one research project in order to qualify for graduation. Projects are presented at an annual Departmental Research Day each spring, where USC residents at all levels are invited to present their research to their fellow residents, faculty and invited guests. Residents are also encouraged to present their research at regional and national meetings throughout the year.

Katie Bayard, MD, MPH
Hometown

Los Angeles, CA

Undergraduate
UCLA

Medical
Keck School of Medicine of USC

Graduate
Keck School of Medicine of USC

LAG and OBG
Having done medical school at USC, I came to appreciate the unique opportunities that training at LA General presented to serve our Los Angeles community. I knew I wanted to continue to work with this population throughout residency, in the best field there is!

Hobbies/Interests
I love exploring new restaurants throughout the Los Angeles area, baking or cooking at home when I have time, and exploring new hikes with my rescue dog. I also love a weekend trip to a national park or going camping with friends.

Fun Fact
My fun fact is that I have synesthesia - so all of my numbers and letters have a specific color associated with them.

Yadira Bribiesca, MD, MPH 

Hometown 
South Los Angeles 

Undergraduate 
UCLA 

Medical 
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA 

Graduate 
UCLA 

LAG and OBG 
I chose OBGYN because it gives me the opportunity to advocate for medically underserved women across their lifespan while also engaging in many hands-on procedures and surgery. As someone who’s family has received care at LAG, I knew I’d be privileged to complete my residency here. I was particularly drawn by the program’s commitment to diversity and inclusion and social justice — fields I want to continue to engage in as a resident and beyond. I am so excited to use my Spanish every day and to continue pushing boundaries for our patients in a program that will support me to do so.

Hobbies/Interests 
Crossfit, yoga, outdoors, hanging out with nieces/nephews, coffee-shops 

Fun Fact 
I was a college advisor for high school students before medical school.

Zaira Chavez Jimenez, MD 

Hometown 
Sacramento, CA 

Undergraduate 
UCLA 

Medical 
Keck School of Medicine of USC 

LAG and OBG 
The first time I told anyone I wanted to be a physician, I was 6 years old and a family friend had a baby and I wanted to see photos of the delivery. I was denied that opportunity and vowed to become a doctor so I could learn more. Little did I know that was the start to a career in OBGYN. I love the mix of primary care and surgery as well as the opportunity and responsibility of advocating for patients during some of their most vulnerable parts of their lives. Furthermore, having attended medical school at USC, I fell in love with the underserved patient population of LA General Hospital and could not imagine training anywhere else. I became a physician to advocate for the Latino community I grew up with and what better place to do that than at LAG! 

Hobbies/Interests 
I am a huge foodie and love trying new foods and traveling to new places and exploring local cuisine. I also enjoy playing video games like Fortnite and board game nights with friends. I have a Pomsky named Teddy and love playing and cuddling with him and also spending time with my partner. 

Fun Fact 
I started figure skating lessons when preparing for Step 2. I'm currently in the advanced adult course learning how to jump and spin!

Laura Dellplain, MD, MHS 

Hometown 
Seattle, WA 

Undergraduate 
Oberlin College 

Medical 
Albany Medical College 

Graduate 
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 

LAG and OBG 
I love the breadth of work that OBGYN has to offer, from preventive care, to advocacy, to surgery. I ultimately chose the specialty because of the patients we have the privilege of serving, sometimes in the most important and vulnerable moments of their lives. 

The OBGYN residency program at LA General is a special group of people who share a commitment to patient advocacy, social justice, and the highest quality of care for the underserved, medically complex patient population we see. Plus, the residents are legitimately close with one another and I felt a connection with them right away on my interview day! 

Hobbies/Interests  
Family walks, yoga, traveling, exploring the restaurants and parks in my neighborhood, hosting brunch, reading Harry Potter and Agatha Christie books. 

Fun Fact I have two kids!

Kimberly Juarez, MD 

Hometown 
South Central Los Angeles, CA 

Undergraduate 
Syracuse University 

Medical 
CDU/UCLA Medical Education Program 

LAG and OBG 
I decided to pursue a career in medicine because I wanted to provide care to underserved and vulnerable communities. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, and I knew I truly wanted to be home for residency and provide reproductive health care to my community in LA. 

Hobbies/Interests 
I love going out to restaurants, checking out community events, and taking exercise classes (because I hate the gym!). 

Fun Fact 
I was born at the old county hospital and I played the violin from 4th grade-12th grade (still play it now occasionally).

Mihiri Karunaratne, MD, MPH 

Hometown
Sunnyvale, CA 

Undergraduate 
UC Berkeley 

Medical 
UC San Diego School of Medicine 

Graduate 
Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health 

LAG and OBG 
I chose OB/GYN because of the many diverse avenues for providing care as diverse as surgery, obstetric deliveries, and longitudinal care, while also advocating alongside our patients for reproductive autonomy. I am passionate about reproductive justice and fostering spaces to rebuild systems of care that truly support all families and communities. 

LAG drew me in because of the opportunities to care for an incredible patient population and learn from providers who share my professional values and commitment to health justice. 

Hobbies/Interests 
I enjoy cooking, gardening/trying to keep my houseplants alive, traveling, and staying active with surfing, yoga, and climbing. 

Fun Fact 
The last time I went surfing in San Diego before medical school graduation, a pod of dolphins joined me in the waves!

Alice Lee, MD 

Hometown 
Burbank, CA 

Undergraduate 
Wesleyan University 

Medical 
Loma Linda University 

LAG and OBG 
I grew up in a culture in which sexual/reproductive health were taboo. I choose OB/GYN because I love being able to celebrate, validate & empower women to take ownership of their bodies. OB/GYN is also so unique because you get to practice both medical & surgical skills. 

I chose USC because they matched my personal values & goals in providing care to underserved communities. 

Hobbies/Interests 
I love being outdoors! I like checking out local parks and reading there. I also enjoy lifting semi-heavy things at the gym. I also finally got myself a new a new keyboard, so I've been enjoying playing music too! 

Fun Fact 
Korean was my first language growing up, but I think my Spanish is better than my Korean at this time.

Christian Pino, MD 

Hometown 
Miami, FL 

Undergraduate 
Florida International University 

Medical 
Drexel University College of Medicine 

LAG and OBG 
I had kept an open mind throughout my medical school rotation but the moment I was on my OB/Gyn rotation everything clicked. I saw my first delivery and began to tear up. I knew I wanted to provide a positive impact in women's health through longitudinal care. 

USC stood out to me as a strong surgical program but most importantly the patient population was one that I resonated with. As a Cuban immigrant, I knew that I wanted to give back to my community by caring for underprivileged non-English speaking patients. I want my patients to know that there is someone out there caring for them who is similar in background to them. 

Hobbies/Interests 
Hobbies include going to the gym (still possible in residency), cooking, board games, and travelling! 

Fun Fact I make a really great flan!

Fay Pon, MD 

Hometown 
San Francisco, CA 

Undergraduate 
University of California, Berkeley 

Medical 
University of Miami Leonard Miller School of Medicine 

LAG and OBG 
My interest in OBG started almost a decade ago while advocating and organizing for survivors of violence, BIPOC, QWOC in college. While doing research in reproductive endocrinology I also had the privilege of volunteering as a labor coach for non-English speaking immigrant mothers on Labor & Delivery. Working with high-risk OB patients in medical school during Covid reaffirmed my lifelong desire to better outcomes for our critically ill patients on Labor & Delivery. 

LAG: After training at UM/Jackson Memorial Hospital a major county hospital in Miami serving largely non-English speaking immigrant patients, I knew I wanted to come here to the west coast (California) and serve patients in a similar setting. There is no other place like LAG and I could never be happier to be back in my favorite city of Los Angeles to train in OBGYN, the only specialty that truly felt like home to me! 

Hobbies/Interests 
Exploring local restaurants, mixology, fashion, dancing, visiting art museums. 

Fun Fact 
I’m a leftie

Kryssia Campos Selva, MD

Hometown
El Salvador/Los Angeles, CA

Undergraduate
UCLA

Medical
Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

LAG and OBG
ObGyn was an obvious choice for me. It seamlessly merges my commitment to advocating for and advancing the health of women and the LGBTQ+ community. It provides a unique opportunity to care for patients in different settings: the clinic, the hospital, and the operating room. It’s an honor to support patients during intimate life moments and empower them to care for their bodies unapologetically.

I chose USC/LAG because of the program’s unwavering commitment to reproductive/social justice and to serving vulnerable populations. As a Latina immigrant who grew up in Los Angeles, it’s a privilege to care for my own communities every day.

Hobbies/Interests
Going on walks with my dog and partner, catching sunsets at the beach, finding new coffee shops, hanging out with family and friends, being a foodie- trying diverse foods, making espresso drinks at home

Fun Fact
I've been to 10 National Parks across 6 different states

Ashley Gutierrez, MD, MS 

Hometown 
Los Angeles, CA 

Undergraduate 
UC San Diego 

Medical 
Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo 

Graduate 
UC San Diego 

LAG and OBG 
I chose OBGYN to be a part of creating a space that was absent in my childhood as a person of latinx decent, a space that allows women, especially those of color, to discuss their reproductive health. I hope that with my background and creation of strong patient relationships we may dismantle the barrier women of color often encounter in obtaining reproductive knowledge and healthcare. 

I chose USC-LAGMC as I aligned with their core values of comprehensive and culturally competent care. Here, I am able to work with fellow physicians who continue to advocate and provide comprehensive care to our diverse patient populations. LAGMC supports its residents so that we may grow into the best provider we can be. 

Hobbies/Interests 
Painting, thrifting, collecting vinyls, reading, running 

Fun Fact 
A life goal of mine is to travel to all the MLB parks, I’m currently at 11.

Anisa Holloman, MD 

Hometown 
Richmond, VA 

Undergraduate 
Spelman College 

Medical 
Howard University College of Medicine 

LAG and OBG 
I chose USC-LAGMC because of the program's commitment to serving medically underserved patient populations while also being supported by a team of like-minded individuals who consistently nurture me to become the best OBGYN that I can be. 

Hobbies/Interests 
Cooking, yoga, singing, going to art museums/curatorial studies, music/concert enthusiast, foodie 

Fun Fact 
I met the Queen of England when I was 8 years old!

Christian Hong, MD, MPH 

Hometown 
Los Angeles, CA 

Undergraduate 
UC San Diego 

Medical 
Keck School of Medicine of USC 

Graduate 
Keck School of Medicine of USC 

LAG and OBG 
I chose OBGYN because as I entered medical school I knew I wanted to serve my community here in LA in a mindful way. As I took some time to volunteer in the neighborhoods around County, I found that a family's health really hinged on the health of their matriarchs and it was often women who were uplifting the community around them. If I can play a supporting role in that process, I would be so fulfilled in my career. 

Hobbies/Interests 
Hiking, ceramics, trying new foods 

Fun Fact 
I was 1 of 6 students who majored in Latin American Studies my year at USCD.

Sawa Keymeulen, MD, MBA 

Hometown 
Los Angeles, CA 

Undergraduate 
Stanford University 

Medical 
UC Irvine 

Graduate 
UC Irvine 

LAG and OBG 
ObGyn is such an amazing field as you get to support and empower women at so many different moments in their lives, some sad, some frustrating, some happy. It's really beautiful to support patients through those moments, medically and emotionally, and I feel so privileged to be in this role of learning how to do that well. And of course being able to do surgery is an amazing privilege in itself. 

I also was so excited to come to LAG/USC since I'm from the surrounding area. I really care about caring for immigrant communities, and I find it really motivating and rewarding to be able to provide the LA community the best care possible. 

Hobbies/Interests 
I love being outdoors and dancing! California has amazing and infinite mountains to explore, from the Angeles Crest mountain range near LA to Eastern Sierras a couple hours away! The chance to completely disconnect and find nature so close to LA is great. At the same time LA is great for the social dancing scene, especially if you like salsa/bachata like me! Oh, and of course, I like watching trashy love shows haha 

Fun Fact 
I watched Made of Honor (rom com) 3x in a row on a plane flight once.

Rohan Luhar, MD, MS 

Hometown 
San Jose, CA 

Undergraduate 
UCLA 

Medical 
Rush University Medical College 

Graduate 
UC San Francisco 

LAG and OBG 
I chose OB/GYN as a specialty as it uniquely offers patients a space, in their most vulnerable moments, to feel empowered in making decisions that align with their needs outside the purview of anyone or anything else. Guiding patients through some of the most joyous and simultaneously the most difficult moments of their lives is an absolute privilege. 

It was apparent from my very first interactions with the residents and faculty at USC-LAGMC that they cared deeply for their patients in this same manner, and that the underlying ethos of the program was to provide patients with the highest quality of care regardless of background or financial status. It is because of this that I chose to train at LAGMC where I am excited to serve our wonderful patient population and develop the necessary skills to become both a confident OGBYN and advocate for my patients. 

Hobbies/Interests 
Attending concerts (LA is a dream for this!), eating spicy foods, collecting vinyls, tending to my growing family of plants, and spending time with my dog Leo in NorCal 

Fun Fact 
I have music on Spotify!

Michelle Martinez, MD, MS 

Hometown 
Pasadena, CA 

Undergraduate 
California State Polytechnic University Pomona 

Medical 
Keck School of Medicine of USC 

Graduate 
UCLA 

LAG and OBG 
Growing up in a culturally conservative minority family, I've always been interested in health education and social and reproductive justice. As an OBGYN, I will have the opportunity to empower patients with the knowledge and tools needed so that they can have the lives they desire. As a queer minority provider, being able to serve the most vulnerable populations of Los Angeles is of the utmost importance, as I hope to continue working with these groups and the larger community to improve access to quality healthcare. The field of OBGYN is the perfect mix of inpatient and outpatient, where you can create long-term relationships with patients coming for clinic visits while also treating any person who comes into the ED with an urgent or emergent need. 

I wanted to come to LAGMC due to the wonderfully diverse patient population and the dedicated like-minded faculty and staff who are devoted to providing compassionate care. Lastly, I am so grateful to be able to learn from the amazing midwives at LAGMC! 

Hobbies/Interests 
I love adding books to my home library, going for hikes, spending time with my wife and pets, eating delicious vegetarian food and attending as many Angel City FC games as I can! 

Fun Fact 
My two biggest dreams right now are to see the northern lights and hold a guinea pig.

Jane O’Bryan, MD, MPH 

Hometown 
Milford, NY 

Undergraduate 
Yale University 

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

Graduate 
Yale School of Public Health 

LAG and OBG 
I chose OB/GYN because the field offers opportunities to bear witness to and care for patients during some of the most poignant moments across the lifetime. 

I'm interested in high-risk OB and infectious diseases in pregnancy and USC-LAGMC is an ideal place to learn how to care for patients at this cross-section of medicine. It was important for me to train in a geographic region where reproductive rights are protected and at an institution with like-minded providers who are fierce social justice and reproductive justice advocates. 

Hobbies/Interests 
Hiking and going to the beach with my 3-year-old Labrador, visiting National Parks, hanging out at local breweries, cooking, baking, refinishing furniture and propagating houseplants. 

Fun Fact 
I was president and choreographer of my college's performance belly dance team and can balance a sword on my head!

Nandita Ramkumar, MD 

Hometown 
Plano, TX 

Undergraduate 
The University of Texas at Dallas 

Medical 
Baylor College of Medicine 

LAG and OBG 
I chose Ob/Gyn because I loved the impact that physicians in the field had on their patients both inside and outside the hospital. Ob/Gyn's get to support their patients at practically every stage of their lives while also advocating for them at a societal level. Also, reproductive health in immigrant populations was especially important to me because of my own background and experiences growing up with stigma surrounding women's health. I found the specialty to be a way for me to change this experience for others who faced similar struggles. Essentially, the field perfectly combined my love for surgery, primary care and treating vulnerable patient populations. 

I chose USC-LAGMC for two main reasons: the patient population and the people within the program. The patient population is a beautiful, diverse community that allows physicians to form strong bonds with them while participating in their care. Next, the people in the program were some of the warmest and most welcoming during my interview trail. Despite interview socials being virtual, I could sense the large family-like feel of this program! After my interview, I walked away feeling optimistic about residency and my future. Not to mention, the program is situated in a lovely city full of good food, scenic views, and things to do at every turn. Now that I'm here, I cannot imagine myself anywhere else- LA General already feels like home to me! 

Hobbies/Interests 
I love reading, crocheting, and cooking! My best friend frequently visits Florence, Italy, and while there, learns how to cook authentic Italian dishes. One of my favorite things to do is learning how to cook from her. Most recently, she taught me how to make homemade gnocchi, and it is *chef's kiss*. 

Fun Fact 
I recently adopted a kitten from my co-intern, Michelle! She found a family of them in her neighborhood and needed to find homes for them. Naturally, she convinced me to take one, and now he runs the house. His name is Zazu, and he's been the most exciting part of my move to LA!

Krystal Austin, MD

Hometown
Toronto, Canada

Undergraduate
UC Berkeley

Medical
University of Colorado School of Medicine

LAG and OBG
I chose OBGYN to uplift our patients' voices and be able to work towards the dismantling of structural racism that causes the disparities in the maternal mortality rate for Black birthing people. LAGMC re-defined for me what it can mean to be mission driven and committed to our underserved patient population.

Hobbies/Interests
Catch me in the kitchen making something fun and tasty! I love baking things for my friends or building my multicultural recipe repertoire.

Fun Fact 
I lived on a riverboat in the Peruvian Amazon for two weeks studying frogs.

Rucha Deshpande, MD

Hometown
San Diego, CA

Undergraduate
UCLA

Medical
Keck School of Medicine of USC

LAG and OBG
My introduction to OB/GYN began the day I became a big sister. After her complicated delivery, my mother would often recount how her OB/GYN team not only acted swiftly in an emergency but also offered her comfort during the most frightening moments of her life. I wanted to be like those doctors: skilled, compassionate, and present in the moments that mattered most. As I explored OB/GYN further, I found that the field combined everything I was looking for in a specialty, including the opportunity to build both medical and surgical expertise, to create long-term relationships, and to support patients through life’s most pivotal experiences. Many women have questions about their sexual and reproductive health, and I value creating a space for people to address those questions, both big and small, and leave feeling empowered to make more informed healthcare decisions.

As a medical student, I met many LAGMC residents and attendings who inspired me with their deep clinical knowledge and dedication to advocating for patients both inside the hospital and out of it. I chose LAGMC because I wanted to serve the LA community and provide high-quality care to those historically underserved by our healthcare system. I am excited to continue learning from my patients and growing into the best doctor I can be alongside peers and staff who share my commitment to practicing with cultural humility.

Hobbies/Interests
Hiking/backpacking, birdwatching, pottery, reading, board games, brunching with friends, going to museums, concerts, and film events around LA!

Fun Fact 
I was president of a beekeeping club in college and helped teach my local community about honeybees and native bees!

Daniela Garcia, MD

Hometown
South Gate, CA

Undergraduate
Amherst College

Medical
Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell

LAG and OBG
I chose ObGyn at the very end of 3rd year because it was my last rotation and nothing had excited me and fulfilled me the way ObGyn did. I love that it's a form of primary care, that it involves performing procedures, but delivering is just my favorite thing ever in Medicine!

One of the most important things for me in my career is to provide care to communities in need, especially to underinsured or uninsured patients. I also want to be at an academic institution that truly prioritizes learning, cares for its residents, and fosters diversity and inclusiveness. I knew that USC-LAG is the perfect program for me to train and grow in. 

Hobbies/Interests
I'm an avid concert-goer (and still attend concerts when possible in residency!) I love going to museums, being outside in parks/nature, and cycling outside on my beautiful road bike. I also really enjoy weightlifting. Now that I'm back home, I'm happy to simply have more quality time with my family. At home, I like to dabble in amateur gardening, cooking and now learning auto mechanics from my Dad.

Fun Fact 
I started collecting original-press vinyls in 2015 that I have the pleasure of listening to on my beautiful record player from 1977.

Thao Le, MD

Hometown
Fountain Valley, CA

Undergraduate
UC Irvine

Medical
Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine

LAG and OBG
I love the field of Ob/Gyn and its combination of surgery, continuity of care, and opportunities to advocate for reproductive/social justice in clinical practice. I especially love helping patients feel comfortable with vulnerable, yet important, aspects of their health and empowering them to make health decisions for themselves.
 
I chose USC+LAGMC because of its unique patient population and how the program is very intentional about incorporating advocacy training in the curriculum. It’s a privilege for me to care for immigrant communities and marginalized, medically complex patients every day. On interview day, I also felt that the program’s residents and faculty were very like-minded and committed to the population that LAGMC serves. I have the best co-residents!

Hobbies/Interests
I love exploring new coffee shops, museums, and planetariums and spending time with my family and friends. 

Fun Fact 
I'm a self-proclaimed home barista. I love crafting my own espresso-based drinks.

Alison Oh, MD

Hometown
Cerritos, CA

Undergraduate
Rice University

Medical
UC San Francisco School of Medicine

LAG and OBG
I chose this field for the diverse scope of practice, desire to advocate for our OBGYN patients, and meaningful, longitudinal connections. 

I chose USC-LAGMC for this program's intentional focus on addressing health disparities and injustice, the whole-person care that we get to provide, and, most importantly, the wonderful people and patients that we get to work with every day!

Hobbies/Interests
My hobby is having hobbies. But my main hobbies right now are knitting, sewing, baking, and hiking. 

Fun Fact
I love corn and I have 2 cats!

 Joy Ohiomoba, MD, MPP, MS

Hometown 
Lagos, Nigeria and Los Angeles, CA

Undergraduate
USC

Medical
UCLA and Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

Graduate
UCLA and USC

LAG and OBG
I’m excited to be entering the field of OB/GYN because it brings together so many of the things I care deeply about, including maternal and fetal health, advocacy, and the opportunity to walk alongside patients during some of the most vulnerable and transformative moments of their lives. My background in global health and public policy has shaped how I understand the structural factors that influence health outcomes, and I wanted to be in a field where I could make a difference both in the clinical setting and at the systems level.

USC-LAGMC stood out to me for its strong commitment to equity, its clinical training, and its deep connection to its diverse patient population. I knew it was a place where I could grow into the physician I hope to become, one grounded in compassion, intention, and purpose. 

Hobbies/Interests
I enjoy reading, running, traveling, and exploring new places. I especially love visiting museums, taking train rides, and discovering local gems, whether close to home or abroad. I also value time with family and friends, whether that is catching up over dinner, hosting game nights, or going on little adventures together. I’ve been working on improving my Spanish and strengthening my Igbo as part of a broader interest in language and cultural connection.

Fun Fact
I ran a race almost every month during my last few years of med school. I mostly did it for the vibes, my Afrobeats playlist, and the shiny participation medal.

Nikita Rao, MD, MS

Hometown
Thousand Oaks, CA

Undergraduate
UC Irvine

Medical
Florida Atlantic University College of Medicine

Graduate
Drexel University

LAG and OBG
I chose OBGYN because it resonates so deeply with both my personal and professional values - it offers a great mix of primary care and emergency care, while also encompassing a broad spectrum of procedures and surgeries. I am most excited about the opportunity to develop lasting relationships with patients, support them through significant life stages both medically and surgically, and empower them to make decisions for their health each step of the way! 

I chose USC/LAG because of the uniquely diverse and amazing patient population we serve. The ongoing commitment of the residency program to identify and act on barriers to care in our patient population, whether that be social barriers or stigmas in medical care, is what stood out to me the most. Reproductive and social justice is so important now more than ever, and I am extremely grateful to be part of a program of like-minded faculty and co-residents who share the same respect for our patients’ safety and their rights.

Hobbies/Interests
I like to eat delicious food in my free time. But also crochet gifts for my friends and family, go to workout classes, try new coffee shops, garden, and go on local hikes on the weekend.

Fun Fact 
I’ve lived in 6 different states so far!

Dailyn Rodriguez Reyes, MD, MPP

Hometown
Guatemala and Anaheim, CA

Undergraduate
UCLA

Medical
UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine

Graduate
UCLA

LAG and OBG
I knew from early on that I wanted to train at a county hospital, somewhere I could care for patients who remind me of my own family and community, and work alongside people who genuinely show up every day because they care. Residency is tough no matter where you go, so it was important for me to be in a place where I’d feel supported by attendings and co-residents, but also by staff. I get to speak Spanish every day, connect with people who look like me, and care for communities I deeply relate to, whether through my own experiences or through the experiences of my family and close friends. This feels like the kind of place where I can grow into the physician I want to be, and still be my full, funny self along the way.

Hobbies/Interests
I’m a big reader and have made my way through 30+ books this year, mostly fiction and fantasy, with a few guilty pleasures mixed in. I love dancing, even if my ancestors might be disappointed in my rhythm. Whether it’s Bad Bunny, HorseGirl, or anything with a good beat. I’ve also been testing whether I inherited my abuela’s green thumb. So far, everything’s still alive, as long as I remember to water them. Shout out to the LA Flower Market for keeping my plant collection thriving and for the tips on how not to kill them.

Fun Fact 
I’ve gone skydiving twice, the first time with my mom, who didn’t want to feel left out after I surprised my siblings with tickets for Christmas. I also recently tried surfing because Lilo & Stitch is my comfort movie… but with arms too weak to paddle, I nearly became one with the ocean and its fishes. Still worth it. Just don’t ask to see pictures, all you’ll find is pure struggle, pain, and a very bad sunburn.

Blair Thompson, MD, MS

Hometown 
Los Angeles, CA

Undergraduate
Scripps College, The Claremont Colleges

Medical
UC San Diego School of Medicine

Graduate
Tulane University

LAG and OBG
I wanted a career where I could connect deeply with patients while developing my procedural and surgical skills. I found that, and much more, in Ob/Gyn. This field allows me to empower and care for a diverse patient population throughout the most exciting and difficult moments of their lives, utilizing a wide breadth of medical, surgical, and procedural skills. 

I chose USC-LAGMC because it is a tremendous honor to train alongside passionate individuals in the city where I grew up, at one of Los Angeles' most important safety-net hospitals. I cannot imagine a better place to become a physician who empowers women and gender minorities and advocates for the rights of all patients than here! 

Hobbies/Interests
Backpacking, cooking, gardening, snowboarding, hiking with my husband and dog, Nala.

Fun Fact 
The first baby I ever held was one I helped deliver during my second year of medical school.

Nada AbouHaiba, MD

Hometown
Moorpark, CA

Undergraduate
UCLA

Medical
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine – Rochester

LAG and OBG
Ob/Gyn is such a special field that lets you be with patients in some of the most vulnerable moments as they navigate their reproductive health. It is such an honor to be able to serve and advocate for these patients during these moments.

USC/LAGMC provides me the opportunity to work with a diverse and underserved patient population. I admire LA General's commitment to serve this community and I'm so excited to work alongside a team of individuals who are equally as motivated and excited!

Hobbies/Interests
Catch me in the kitchen making something fun and tasty! I love baking things for my friends or building my multicultural recipe repertoire.

Fun Fact
I love to read, try new foods/cook, watch bad movies, and hang out with my nephew.

Stephany Amezcua, MD

Hometown
Camarillo, CA

Undergraduate
Oxnard Community College then UCLA

Medical
Keck School of Medicine of USC

LAG and OBG
I chose LAGMC because I was drawn to its  patient population and the people who care for them. As a USC medical student, I saw firsthand how kind, humble and supportive the residents were. They cared deeply about their patients, advocated for underserved communities and created a culture where everyone was eager to teach and support one another. 

I chose OB/GYN because it is the perfect blend of surgery, clinic, continuity of care and advocacy. I love that we get to care for patients through some of the most important moments of their lives. I cried during my first few deliveries! It’s such a privilege to be part of such a beautiful moment. 

Hobbies/Interests
Hiking, camping, tennis, dancing, snowboarding

Fun Fact 
I lived in a van for two years while I attended UCLA! And I have a son! 

Masani Coley, MD

Hometown
Los Angeles, CA

Undergraduate
UC Irvine

Medical
UC Davis School of Medicine

LAG and OBG
OB/GYN has always been the specialty for me! I love the diversity of the field, from surgery and obstetric care to advocacy and women’s health across every stage of life. OB/GYN allows me to build longitudinal relationships with patients and support them through some of life’s most vulnerable moments. 

My goal is to plant more seeds of positive experiences for women and all patients seeking reproductive healthcare by ensuring every patient feels heard, respected, and empowered in their care. I can’t imagine a better place to accomplish this than USC-LAGMC, where caring for underserved communities is central to the program’s mission. The passion of the residents and faculty was inspiring to see, and made it clear this was an environment where I would be challenged, supported, and able to grow into the physician I aspire to be.

Hobbies/Interests
I love hiking, going on walks at the beach/anywhere, spending time with my family and friends, traveling, trail mix enthusiast. I also love a good nap!

Fun Fact 
I was a nontraditional student and worked at Costco for 10 years (some of those years in medical school). 

Gabriela Cunningham, MD

Hometown
San Luis Obispo, CA

Undergraduate
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Medical
Keck School of Medicine of USC

LAG and OBG
I was really drawn to the variety in Ob/Gyn. I love that we have a mix of clinic, office-based procedures, and cases in the OR! I also found that taking care of patients at pivotal moments of their lives to be incredibly rewarding. 

Choosing USC-LAGMC for my training was a no-brainer. The patient population that comprises our hospital is special - they often come from underserved, under-resourced backgrounds. I pursued medicine because I wanted to care for exactly this patient population. Aside from that, all the faculty and my co-residents are amazing!

Hobbies/Interests
Hanging out with my husband and our dog, working on jigsaw puzzles, and watching reality tv.

Fun Fact 
I can say the alphabet backwards. 

Kaitlin Hock, MD

Hometown
Las Vegas, NV

Undergraduate
University of Arizona

Medical
UNLV School of Medicine

LAG and OBG
I chose OB/GYN because I love the unique blend of medicine and surgery, but what drew me to the specialty most were the relationships I watched my OB/GYN mentors build with their patients over time. I knew I wanted to be an OB/GYN when I observed how strongly they advocated for their patients, throughout every stage of life. Beyond that, this field is so special because it allows us to be there for patients during both the most exciting and the most difficult moments of their lives. Outside of the hospital, I have always loved being the person my friends and family come to with questions about reproductive health, and I feel incredibly lucky that I get to turn that passion into a career.

Training at USC/LA General has been everything I was looking for in a residency. I wanted to train in a large city while caring for a diverse and medically underserved patient population and gaining experience with a wide range of cases, and this program has given me exactly that. Every day I learn something new from our incredible patients, my supportive co-residents, and fantastic faculty. Getting to live in Los Angeles with endless things to do and great weather is a pretty amazing bonus, too.

Hobbies/Interests
I love photography! I always bring my Fujifilm digital camera and point-and-shoot film camera with me wherever I go. I also enjoy collecting vinyl records from all eras of music, finding new ways to decorate my apartment, taking care of my many plants, and spending time outside. Whether it is biking, running, or just laying at the beach, I'm in!

Fun Fact 
My plant collection got a little out of hand during medical school. At one point, I was taking care of over 50 plants in my tiny one-bedroom apartment. 

Valentina Larrivey, MD, MPH

Hometown
Los Angeles, CA/Owosso, MI

Undergraduate
University of Michigan

Medical
Emory University School of Medicine

Graduate
Emory University

LAG and OBG
I’m passionate about OBGYN because it allows me to combine my interests in clinical care, surgery, public health, and advocacy while supporting patients during some of their most important and vulnerable moments.

It was really important for me to find a program with a shared commitment to service, advocacy, and caring for diverse, underserved communities, which aligned perfectly with USC/LAGMC’s mission. Being from LA, I'm honored to return home and serve the community that has shaped so much of who I am.

Hobbies/Interests
Hiking, swimming, yoga, snowboarding, traveling, exploring new restaurants, cooking, reading fiction, and creating flower arrangements.

Fun Fact 
One of my favorite travel traditions is collecting artwork from local street artists and markets from every new place I visit.

Caitlyn Sing, MD, MBA

Hometown
Los Angeles, CA

Undergraduate
UC Santa Cruz

Medical
UC Irvine

Graduate
UC Irvine

LAG and OBG
I grew up in East Los Angeles and am honored to be serving the community that raised me! I chose LAGMC because the program's mission aligns with my passion for working with underserved patients and advancing health equity while becoming a well-rounded OB/GYN.

Hobbies/Interests
All arts and crafts, especially painting, sculpture, and ceramics! I love exploring new places, being active, and going to concerts/music festivals.

Fun Fact 
I have a twin brother!

Alejandra Solis, MD, MS

Hometown
El Salvador and Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Undergraduate
Chapman University

Medical
Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine

Graduate
Western Michigan University

LAG and OBG
OB/GYN stole my heart because it offers the perfect balance of outpatient care, meaningful long-term patient relationships, and the opportunity to be in the operating room. Every day brings something different, from celebrating new beginnings to supporting patients through some of life's most vulnerable moments.

I chose USC-LAGMC because of its deep commitment to serving the diverse communities of Los Angeles County and providing exceptional care to every patient, regardless of their background or circumstances. I'm so excited to learn in a place that values compassion, equity, and service, and I can't wait to continue growing into the kind of physician I aspire to be.

Hobbies/Interests
Crafting (diamond art, building Legos), Peloton rides, cooking

Fun Fact 
I lived in El Salvador for 16 years!

Melissa Wu, MD, MPH

Hometown
Clovis, CA

Undergraduate
UC San Diego

Medical
Georgetown University

Graduate
Tufts University

LAG and OBG
I chose to go into the field of OB/GYN because it embodies the things I care about most: building meaningful relationships with patients, advocating for women’s and reproductive health, and having the opportunity to work with my hands through procedures and surgery.
What drew me to USC-LAGMC was its commitment to serving underserved populations and providing justice-oriented care. This program is home to a community that truly cares about its patients, and I know this is a space where I will be supported to grow both personally and professionally and become the best physician advocate I can be.

Hobbies/Interests
Music, minions, and making things! (also a fan of beautiful landscapes and architecture!)

Fun Fact 
I'm terrible at remembering song lyrics (even for my favorite songs), but somehow I've got a random collection of nursery rhymes forever stuck in my brain!

Titles:
Associate Professor of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology
Residency Program Director, Obstetrics and Gynecology

Bio:
Dr. Dancz is fellowship trained and board certified in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. She works with residents in the urogynecology and gynecology clinics, on the inpatient gynecology wards, and in the operating room. She is the Residency Program Director for Obstetrics and Gynecology and has received multiple teaching awards for resident education.

Dr. Dancz is an ABOG Board Examiner (for Ob/Gyn) and is on national committees through the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) and the Council for Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology (CREOG). She is a frequent mentor for resident and fellow research projects, is a reviewer for multiple journals and publishes on a variety of topics. Her main research interests are in conservative management of prolapse, implementation science in the safety-net and medical education.

Titles:
Co-Director of Labor and Delivery at Los Angeles General Hospital Medical Center
Assistant Professor of Clinical OB-GYN

Bio:
Dr. Gomez is a graduate of the USC/LAGMC Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship. She is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She is a member of the Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and the American Institute of Ultrasound Medicine. Dr. Gomez is passionate about providing culturally competent care to medically underserved populations and teaching medical students, residents, and fellows.

Titles:
Professor of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology
Ob/Gyn Residency Associate Program Director

Bio:
Dr. Incerpi is the Residency Associate Program Director. He is an active member of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, the Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, the Pacific Coast Obstetrical and Gynecologic Society, and the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine. He performs diagnostic ultrasound imaging, and consultations for a variety of obstetric and medical complications. He has a variety of clinical interests and has contributed to the medical literature in the area of stillbirth.

Titles:
Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Associate Residency Program Director
Director, Obstetrics and Gynecology DEI Program (IDEA)
WE CARE LAG Physician Committee Member
LAG Equity Care Committee Member

Clinical interests:
Equity Patient Care Initiatives, Health Disparities, Patient Experience, Resident Education especially GYN Clinic and Surgery

Bio:
Dr. Mitchell Chadwick is a Texas native, who identifies as a biracial female person and throughout her life has often been the only woman of color in the room. During training, she developed a passion not only for medicine but for addressing inequities in healthcare and the healthcare training process. She attended Texas Tech Medical School before OBGYN residency training at USC/LA General Medical Center. As a senior resident, Dr. Mitchell Chadwick had the courage to speak-up against disparities and injustices in the Ob/Gyn department and worked to educate and develop solutions. She currently is an Assistant Professor of Clinical OBGYN at USC and is a recognized Champion of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Keck School of Medicine. She has developed a departmental program for DEI, which starts with implicit bias training, and she strives to create a culture shift in OBGYN. Her passions including addressing disparities in clinical care, especially for women and women of color, along with increasing the recruitment and retention of underrepresented providers.