McLaren Residency & Fellowship Programs

Curriculum

Over the course of the three-year program, our residents focus on the full-spectrum of family care. Each year residents will focus on different aspects of care. In addition to monthly assignments, we place an emphasis on longitudinal experiences, such as evidence-based medicine, practice management, geriatrics, behavioral science, and obstetrics.

We also stress procedures in our procedures clinic, such as joint aspiration and injection, skin biopsy, colposcopy, wound care, musculoskeletal ultrasound, dermatologic, osteopathic, contraception, and gynecologic.

Osteopathic experiences include: osteopathic education/experience in the clinical setting, osteopathic clinic/OMT clinic, and osteopathic didactics and OMT hands-on labs.

Curriculum embraces treatment of the whole person, which is consistent with our general approach to family medicine at McLaren St. Luke’s.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) didactic care is integrated into weekly conferences at a frequency of once per month
OMT clinics are scheduled regularly during office hours with direct supervision by an Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy trained preceptor
Once a D.O. is signed off (by completing 20 supervised procedures), D.O.s may do OMT at their discretion at any time when in FMC office hours
May provide OMT to hospitalized patients when on the inpatient service
OMT rotation available for both D.O.s and M.D.s
D.O.s have opportunities to help teach/spread knowledge of OMT to allopathic colleagues and medical students in office, on inpatient service, and during didactics
M.D.s may choose their level of involvement in the Osteopathic curriculum ranging from participation in didactics to full participation as a Designated Osteopathic Resident. M.D.s have the opportunity to learn osteopathic techniques that can be easily applied in future practice

The McLaren St. Luke’s Hospital Family Medicine Residency provides its residents the opportunity to customize their education to meet their career goals. Through customized “tracks” the program meets the Residency Review Committee requirements for family medicine education, while offering emphasis in several areas of interest. There are several fully developed tracks: sports medicine, academic medicine, rural medicine and osteopathic medicine. For information on available tracks, please download our Right Track Brochure.

How to Apply

Choosing a Residency

McLaren St. Luke's Family Medicine Residency provides its residents the opportunity to customize their education to meet their career goals.

Commitment to You Brochure Right Track Brochure

Application Method

McLaren St. Luke's Family Medicine Residency Program participates in the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) National Resident Match Program (NRMP) and will only accept applications through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Paper applications are not accepted.

Minimum Application Requirements

The minimum requirements to be considered for our residency program are listed below for your convenience.

PGY-1 Applicants

We require that all PGY-1 applicants apply through ERAS. As part of your ERAS application, you need to submit a copy of your USMLE or COMLEX transcript. You need to have passed Part I of the USMLE or COMLEX exam in order to apply and Part II prior to match. A maximum of one (1) fail on any part of the USMLE (Pt I, Pt II CK & CS) or COMLEX (Pt I, Pt II CE & PE) examinations will be allowed and scores passing and above will be considered.

All applicants not currently in a formal ACGME accredited program need to have graduated from medical school within two years of the start of residency. International students/graduates must have completed all of their clinical rotations in the U.S., sponsored by a medical school, hospital or residency program in order to be considered for an interview. The formal rotations must include documented hands-on patient care, including presenting patients, assessing histories and performing physical examinations, as well as other tasks assigned under the supervision of a U.S. licensed attending physician. The program does not sponsor or accept VISAs; U.S. citizens and green-card holders only will be accepted for consideration.

PGY-2 or PGY-3 Transfers

In the case of open PGY-2 or PGY-3 positions, consideration will be given to physicians with post-graduate training in an approved U.S. residency program who meet sufficient advanced placement requirements.

McLaren St. Luke’s Family Medicine Residency is an equal employment opportunity program.

Tobacco-free Hiring Practice

To foster a healthier workforce, as well as to demonstrate to our patients and the community our strong commitment to health and wellness, as of Jan. 1, 2011, St. Luke’s Hospital only hires tobacco-free employees. Our application asks about the use of tobacco and nicotine replacement, and candidates will be screened for nicotine before they are hired.

Applicants who declare use or screen positive for nicotine may reapply for a position after they have been tobacco/nicotine-free for 90 days.

Flu Shot Policy

Receiving a flu vaccine is required for all St. Luke’s Hospital employees hired after Oct. 1, 2013. This policy is designed to protect our patients as well as our employees, families and the communities where we work and live. Medical and religious exemptions and personal declinations will be granted with proper documentation. However, anyone not receiving the flu vaccine will be required to wear an approved mask when working at our hospital, according to the masking policy.

COVID-19 Vaccines

At the time of publishing this statement, McLaren Health Care is requiring the COVID-19 vaccine for all of its employees, including residents and fellows, beginning January 4, 2022. The requirement extends to anyone who provides any care, treatment, or service for McLaren or its patients. This regulation allows for exemptions to staff with recognized medical conditions for which vaccines are contraindicated or religious beliefs or observances. Any individual seeking a religious or medical exemption will follow the prescribed McLaren policy that includes submission of a formal request to the McLaren System Vaccine Exemption Committee. Failure to comply with the vaccination requirement, or not having an approved exemption, will prevent employment with McLaren. If you have specific questions related to the program you are interested in applying to, please contact the residency or fellowship coordinator.

Interviews

Interviews will be held virtually only.

St. Luke's Resident & Fellow Salary/Benefits

Scholarly Activities

We encourage research during your three-year residency. Projects include case reports with a literature review of an interesting case, surveys, small studies that can be completed in the office setting and/or participation in clinical drug trials, letters to the editor, CQI and regional poster symposium presentations.

Members of our residency and faculty have presented at the Ohio Family Medicine Symposium on Research and Education and the North American Primary Care Research Group conferences. They also have published articles and research studies in journals such as The Ohio Family Physician and The Journal of Family Medicine. Past publications have covered topics like electronic medical records, alternative medicine and working with the media.

Teaching Faculty

Physician Faculty

J. Christian Zona, MD, MEd, FAAFP
Program Director

Where is home for you? I currently live in Sylvania, Ohio. Originally from New York City (Queens).
Why did you choose to work at MSLFMR? I have been faculty at Flower and Toledo Hospital Residencies as well as faculty at McLaren St. Luke’s. I chose to continue as medical director of McLaren St. Luke's Family Medicine residency because of the positive atmosphere and excellent faculty and teaching at this residency.
Where did you go to graduate school? I did my medical training at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. I did my residency in Family Medicine at Flower Hospital in Sylvania Ohio.
Describe your perfect day. A perfect day for me begins with swimming laps at Highland Meadows, breakfast with my wife, working at the residency, Spaghetti dinner with friends and family and a good book before bed. I am an avid photographer. I also enjoy cross country skiing, computer graphics and all types of music.
Megan Cranor, DO, MPH
Osteopathic Education Director & Associate Program Director

Where is home for you? I grew up in Toledo, Ohio, but I currently reside in Sylvania, Ohio.
Why did you choose to work at MSLFMR? I love teaching and watching our residents grow and develop into amazing family physicians over their three years here. I enjoy my varied daily schedule of office, preceptor, procedures, geriatrics, Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) preceptor, inpatient, etc. It keeps me on my toes and prevents me from getting bored doing one thing all day. I enjoy working with my co-faculty, residents, and staff on a daily basis, creating a cohesive team and safe learning environment. I particularly enjoy my position as Director of Osteopathic Education, which enables me to teach all of our residents (both D.O. and M.D.) and faculty OMT during precepting and didactics. I love having the opportunity to improve our patients’ pain or discomfort with my skills so that they can walk out of the office feeling better.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I went to The Ohio State University for my undergraduate studies in Biology. I also completed a Masters of Public Health in Epidemiology at The Ohio State University.
Where did you go to medical school? I went to Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine in Athens, Ohio.
Describe your perfect day. I would most definitely start off with sleeping in! I would be sure to go for a run, and it would be perfect running weather of around 55 degrees, clear, and sunny. I would spend the rest of the day with my husband, Cody, and my daughter, Athena. We would likely go out for brunch, maybe Lyle’s Crepes (local food truck) or First Watch. We might take the dogs to one of the local metroparks to walk or run around. The day would definitely end with a cheeseburger! Alternatively, my perfect day might be at Disney World or laying on a beach all day!
What do you like to do outside of medicine? I love spending time with my husband, Cody, and my daughter, Athena. We like to travel, and I am very much looking forward to showing Athena the world. I enjoy running, and it is my stress relief. I have done many marathons, including the Disney Marathon. My favorite is the Chicago Marathon! I have also completed countless half marathons, 10Ks, 5Ks, etc. My favorite half marathon is the Glass City Half Marathon (our home town race!). I am a huge Ohio State football fan and fall is my favorite time of the year! I also follow baseball, my team is the Detroit Tigers, but Cody follows the Cincinnati Reds, so I follow his team, too. We also have two dogs, Nala and Henle, who are fun to play with (Nala is my best running buddy!). I also enjoy shopping…I have an Amazon problem! 😊
John Hanna, MD, FAAFP
Associate Director

Where is home for you? Hometown is Parma/Cleveland, but home for me is where I raised my kids and plan to retire... Ashland Ohio.
Why did you choose to work at MSLFMR? Opportunity to work with a great group of people in a great program. Working here is my idea of an "A-Team".
Where did you complete your undergrad? University of Toledo.
Where did you go to graduate school? Wright State School of Medicine, now Booneshaft School of Medicine
Describe your perfect day. Busy, and making a difference in the lives of others. Putting a "hurt" on disease.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? I love working outside on projects on the farm land that my parents had when I was a kid. Tractors, backhoe, chainsaw and my new toy is a Ventrac tractor.
Jeffrey Lewis, MD, FAAFP
Associate Director

Where is home for you? Akron, Ohio but Toledo has been home for 43 years
Why did you choose to work at MSLFMR? I love working with the faculty, residents, nursing and staff. My second family!
Where did you complete your undergrad? University of Akron BS Biology GO ZIPS!
Where did you go to graduate school? University of Akron MS Biology. Medical School: Medical College of Ohio (now University of Toledo COM)
Describe your perfect day. Summer day in the sunshine sitting on my patio with my wife and watching the bluebirds feed their babies.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Fishing for Pike and any other fish that will give a good fight. Catch and release of course!
Anna Nelson, MD, MS
Associate Director

Where is home for you? I am a northwest Ohio country gal through and through and was raised east of Toledo in Jerusalem Township. Traveling to new places and experiencing new cultures is something I cherish, but I love coming back home. I’ve always joked that I start developing hives if I haven’t seen a corn field for more than a couple of weeks.
Why did you choose to work at MSLFMR? The people, the people, the people! Did I mention the people? I’ve always wanted to work somewhere that pushes me to grow and be a better physician, a better teacher, and a better person. I get that here every day in an extremely supportive way. I love walking down the hall laughing and smiling every day. This job isn’t easy but doing this job here sure is fun!
Where did you complete your undergrad? I am a UT Rocket! I started my undergrad degree by majoring in chemical engineering with dreams of eventually going to law school. I then changed my major to education. Then to anthropology. Then to marketing. The only thing that didn’t change is driving to the same campus every day at The University of Toledo. I finally graduated with a marketing degree and then pursued master’s in biomedical sciences at UT.
Where did you go to graduate school? I’ll give you a guess based on where I did my undergrad and master’s degrees. If you guessed The University of Toledo, you are right! I am a proud graduate of The University of Toledo College of Medicine.
Describe your perfect day. It starts with me waking up to the warm sunlight, no alarm clock involved. My two dogs, Finn and Solo (yes, I love Star Wars), get my undivided attention until I go sit in my backyard sipping a cappuccino and reading a “human book” (what I like to call a non-medical book). When it is time for a second cup of caffeinated goodness, the pups and I head to my parents’ house. My brother and sister-in-law (and my little nephew who is still cooking in the oven) are visiting from Chicago and we sit outside with my parents and other brother playing euchre and rummikub all morning. An afternoon matinee (for any good Broadway show) is performed in the backyard because a perfect day always includes the theater (and in a perfect world, Broadway comes to me rather than the other way around)! After a standing-ovation worthy performance, my sister, brother-in-law and nieces and nephew arrive with bundles and bundles of energy. Swimming, soccer, and kickball are definitely included in the outdoor fun. A good old-fashioned cook out (including fresh corn from the farm around the corner) is on the evening agenda. All our friends come over (just like when we were kids) and we sit around a bonfire down by the pond beach when nighttime falls. And there are no mosquitos, because in a perfect day, there are no mosquitos.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Spending time with my family and friends is my favorite pastime hands down. I love watching soccer (US Women’s National Team and Manchester United are the best!) both on tv and in person. I’ll watch any sporting event during the Olympics. I’ve continuously requested to get paid time off for the men and women’s World Cup and the summer and winter Olympics, but so far I have not had luck in that endeavor. Traveling is always a pleasure and have enjoyed traveling to many, many places. Reading historical novels and biographies (especially when paired with a good cup of coffee) is joy I don’t think I’ll ever get sick of doing. I never turn down a chance to go to the theater for a good musical.
David Oram, MD, FAAFP
Associate Director

Where is home for you? I was raised in Adrian, MI approximately 40 miles from Toledo, OH.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I graduated from Adrian College.
Where did you go to graduate school? I went to medical school at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine graduating in 1988. I served as a medical officer in the United States Navy from 1989-1993 and then completed my family medicine residency in Toledo, OH. I practiced full-spectrum family medicine, including OB in the rural town of Cheboygan, MI from 1995-2010. I have been in academic medicine since, adding on osteopathic manual therapy and ultrasound-guided injections to my skill set.
Describe your perfect day. My ideal medical day would include performing a mix of ultrasound guided injections and OMT with instant relief! Outside of medicine, I love spending time with my wife biking, playing tennis, swimming, and grilling.

Non-Physician Faculty

Virginia Hiltner, APRN-CNP-CNM

Where is home for you? I was born and grew up in Toledo, Ohio.
Why did you choose to work at MSLFMR? I was invited to join the faculty at W W Knight. I was able to combine both of my roles as a FNP and CNM, as well as teach.
Where did you complete your training? I received my BSN from BGSU; My MSN from MCO (now UTMC); and my post masters certification in Midwifery from OSU
Describe your perfect day. A perfect day would be spending time with my family: kids,, grandkids, spouse on the beach or possibly hiking in the mountains.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Besides spending time with the grandchildren, I like to read, bike, run, and hike. Enjoy quilting in my spare time.
Mark Krautheim, PhD
Behavioral Science Director

Where is home for you? Totowa, NJ
Why did you choose to work at MSLFMR? I really love working with this team and in addition to teaching residents, I get to practice integrated primary care with them.
Where did you complete your undergrad? College of William and Mary – Go Tribe!
Where did you go to graduate school? The University of Tennessee
Describe your perfect day. Definitely being outside in nature with family – hiking
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Hiking, camping, Scouting, spending time with family, traveling
Michelle O’Brien, PharmD, BCACP
Director, Pharmacy Residency

Where is home for you? Toledo/ Lambertville/ Temperance
Why did you choose to work at MSLFMR? My MSLFMR family is the reason why I love my job. I did my pharmacy residency with this faculty and staff and I am so fortunate that there was an opportunity for me to come back to make a career as a pharmacist here! I couldn’t ask for a better collaborative, supportive, and energetic atmosphere to work in.
Where did you complete your undergrad? University of Toledo
Where did you go to graduate school? University of Toledo College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Describe your perfect day. I love spending time outdoors with my little kiddos and my husband. I love watching my sons’ enjoyment as they take on new experiences for the first time. So my perfect day would be exploring a new place with my family, eating good macaroni and cheese and barbecue, and going out for ice cream!
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Aside from spending time with my family, I really enjoy crafting! I have a Cricut and I love making crafts and t-shirts. Everyone gets personalized gifts for special occasions!
Tony Pfeiffer, MSW, LISW-S
Geriatric Coordinator

Where is home for you? Toledo/Sylvania Ohio
Why did you choose to work at MSLFMR? I have always had a desire to be involved in education. Previously, I mentored undergrad and graduate students in the field of Social Work. When the opportunity arose to join the medical residency, I jumped at it and 20+ years later I have absolutely no regrets about that decision. Being part of watching each resident grow and mature both as a person and a physician over a three-year period is something very special.
Where did you complete your education? Bachelor's degree: University of Toledo; Master's degree: Case Western Reserve University; Elder Law Certificate: University of Toledo (College of Graduate Studies)
Describe your perfect day. Praying and setting goals for myself to start the day, making someone laugh or being a positive influence, preparing a big dinner or enjoying a great meal with my wife/family/friends.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Cooking and smoking meats, going to farmer's markets, attending concerts and sporting events

Current Trainees

Third Year Residents

Elizabeth Barga, DO

Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine

Where are you from? I am from Sylvania OH, right here in the Toledo area.
Why did you choose MSLFMR? Location was number one, so I could be home near family again. I also appreciated how well everyone (attendings, staff, residents) got along and were genuinely friends with one another when I rotated here as a medical student.
Where did you complete your undergrad? THE Ohio State University
Where did you go to medical school? Lincoln Memorial University (DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine) in Harrogate, TN.
What does your perfect day look like? “I’d have to say April 25th, because it’s not too hot, not too cold...all you need is a light jacket”-- But actually, an ideal day would be gardening (on a warm but not too hot day), then cooling off in the pool, followed by relaxing inside with my cats and some snacks.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? I like to grow and propagate plants, work on my vegetable garden, hang out with my cats, listen to podcasts, and cook.
What are your post-residency plans? I am planning on staying in the area and joining an outpatient family medicine/primary care practice.
Matthew Hogan, DO

Where are you from? Defiance, OH
Why did you choose MSLFMR? The residency was located close to family and it offered opportunities for me to get to know future colleagues in medicine.
Where did you complete your undergrad? Defiance College
Where did you go to medical school? Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine
What does your perfect day look like? Woodworking and fishing alongside my beautiful wife and child.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Woodworking, fishing
What are your post-residency plans? I will be practicing Family Medicine in a small town in western Ohio.
Valeriya Korchina, DO

Where are you from? I was born in Ukraine, but I did most of my growing up in Houston, Texas.
Why did you choose MSLFMR? When I met the team during the interview dinner, I knew this was a true family environment. I knew I would be able to explore my interests within Family Medicine with great backup and support.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I received my undergraduate degree at the University of Houston.
Where did you go to medical school? I completed my medical school training at Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine.
What does your perfect day look like? It would have to be an early summer day that starts with a long hike (the hike has to have a beautiful view), followed by a patio brunch and a stroll through town until sunset. There has to be lots of time with the pups sprinkled in there.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Since I still consider myself new to town, I like to spend my free time exploring the area. Whether it’s the parks, the restaurants, or the stores, it really doesn’t matter as long as I make sure to catch some sunshine on my days off.
What are your post-residency plans? There will definitely be a big move! But I will continue focusing on outpatient primary care with a mix of OMT.
Shikha Mistry, MD
Chief Resident

Where are you from? I am from Strongsville, Ohio, which is a suburb of Cleveland. Go Cavs!
Why did you choose MSLFMR? The people! I loved seeing how everyone was like one big family and truly cared about one another. This residency gives me the opportunity to be challenged while being supported which makes for a very welcoming learning environment.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I completed my undergrad right here at the University of Toledo.
Where did you go to medical school? I ventured out to Saint Lucia for medical school at International American University College of Medicine.
What does your perfect day look like? My perfect day consists of sleeping in, coffee in bed, lots of cuddles with my babies and some good food!
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Outside of medicine I love being able to enjoy the outdoors with my husband, daughter and labrador retriever, Bernie! I also love listening to true crime podcasts, dancing and shopping!
What are your post-residency plans? After residency I plan to stay in Ohio. I would like to split time being in both inpatient and outpatient settings with a full scope practice of all ages. Anywhere I go I plan to give back to the community in any way I can.
Suchitra Nair, MD
Chief Resident

Where are you from? I am from Brooklyn, NY (Fuggedaboutit!). Undoubtedly, it is where the best pizza is found.
Why did you choose MSLFMR? I chose this program for many reasons, the people the people the people! I met a few faculty members and a resident at the AAFP National Conference in Kansas City. I could tell that they truly cared for one another and it seemed very genuine. I wanted a program that would find a way to support me & my interests, yet challenge me to be the best physician and person I could be. I could tell there was a commitment to lifelong learning.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I went to Hunter College in Manhattan, NY in the Upper East Side. I would eat my lunch at Central Park often which was right down the block!
Where did you go to medical school? I went to Ross University which is where I met my husband (on the very first day)!
What does your perfect day look like? Waking up and just enjoying my coffee with my husband with cuddles from our goldendoodle (Brooklyn). We love some good music! It would include spending time outdoors (likely at a Metropark). It would also include some delicious food and our families.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? I like to go to the metroparks with our dog, travel, cook and bake, spend time with family/friends, try new food, read, play sports.
What are your post-residency plans? After residency, I plan to stay in the greater Toledo area. I would like to do a mix of outpatient and inpatient medicine. My biggest passion is teaching and working with medical students and residents in some form - I hope to make academic medicine part of my practice. Most importantly, I want to continue to empower my patients to take ownership of their health.
Ian Thomas, MD

Where are you from? I grew up traveling the world with my parents in Doctors Without Borders, but consider Battle Creek, Michigan (aka Cereal City) my hometown. It really does smell like Fruity Pebbles downtown in the morning, which sounds great… unless you live there.
Why did you choose MSLFMR? I rotated in my 3rd year of medical school by complete chance and fell in love with the genuine interactions amongst the resident and attending, the level of graded autonomy afforded to me as a student, and the quality teaching and culture of learning that made it okay to not always have every answer, but be given the tools to know where to find it.
Where did you complete your undergrad? My alma mater is the University of Michigan where there are four seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, and road construction.
Where did you go to medical school? I graduated from the “Miracle College of Ohio” as my attending (the O.G.) calls it, formerly known as Medical University of Ohio (MUO), Medical College of Ohio (MCO), Toledo State College of Medicine, and now University of Toledo College of Medicine (UTMC).
What does your perfect day look like? Not getting out of bed…
What do you like to do outside of medicine? I enjoy coaching gymnastics, which I have done for the better part of a decade now. I particularly like that no matter how challenging my day is, the boys are always happy to see me when I make it to practice. I also enjoy singing, playing music and impromptu street performances around town when the weather is nice.
What are your post-residency plans? I intend on pursuing a Sports Medicine fellowship and afterward an academic faculty position, serving as a team physician in the sport of gymnastics, and eventually going into practice with my mother and opening the first tuition-free men's gymnastics program in the United States.

Second Year Residents

Alex Altman, MD

Where are you from? I am from Napoleon, OH, a small town 30 minutes from Perrysburg.
Why did you choose MSLFMR? I was looking for an unopposed program with strong clinical experience with a reputation for training strong family physicians to serve in their communities. Most of all though, I was looking for a place with good people, and this program does not disappoint. Everyone here treats each other like family, and it is an incredibly welcoming and supportive atmosphere.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I went to Ohio Northern University and studied civil engineering.
Where did you go to medical school? I went to The University of Toledo. Go Rockets!
What does your perfect day look like? To start, I would wake up early with my wife, drink some coffee, and catch the sunrise with a beautiful mountain view. We would then go hiking for the rest of the day in one of the national parks we haven't visited yet. After catching the sunset, we'd get to sleep so we can do it all again the next day!
What do you like to do outside of medicine? I enjoy fishing, hiking, tennis, golf, reading, and playing with our dog, Sage.
What are your post-residency plans? I intend to practice in the northwest Ohio area, doing a blend of inpatient and outpatient work.
Parker Awerkamp, DO

Where are you from? Gilbert, Arizona
Why did you choose MSLFMR? From the interviewing process, I could tell that this organization is full of people who truly care about their residents.
Where did you complete your undergrad? Brigham Young University
Where did you go to medical school? Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
What does your perfect day look like?
8:45am - Wake up
9:30am - Breakfast: 3 whole eggs, 3 egg whites, 2 pieces of bacon, and a piece of whole wheat toast
10:15am - Gym: chest & triceps
11:30am - Protein shake, call my mom
12:00pm - Watch college football
5:00pm - Dinner: Shrimp stir fry
6:00pm - Netflix/Star Wars/Marvel movie
8:00pm - Popcorn in my bean bag
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Pickleball, Frisbee golf, movies
What are your post-residency plans? Airforce active duty, outpatient office, some urgent care on the side, have 4 kids that like me, live somewhere with rain.
Bradley Jerew, DO

Where are you from? Richwood, Ohio (Central Ohio)
Why did you choose MSLFMR? From my first interactions here as a rotating medical student with residents, faculty, and staff, I felt welcomed into the family and appreciated immediately. There have been countless instances since where members of our program have lifted, celebrated, meaningfully challenged, and supported me through my journey as a resident.
Where did you complete your undergrad? The Ohio State University in Columbus and Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Mount Vernon, Ohio (I was originally a music teacher and band director).
Where did you go to medical school? Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dublin Ohio Campus
What does your perfect day look like? Any day when I can spend meaningful time with my wife and children as well as help patients lead healthier lives.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? I am a fan of various sports including OSU football and Columbus Blue Jackets hockey as well as miscellaneous athletics, motorsports, and aviation. I and my family compete in national level tractor pulling with a 6,000 horsepower triple-engine tractor. I am a hobbyist photographer and love to travel and explore wilderness and architecture alike.
What are your post-residency plans? I don’t have firm plans at this point as I am still exploring areas of subspecialization but likely general family practice somewhere in the Central/Northwest Ohio area.
Aleta Luesse, MD

Where are you from? Ann Arbor, Michigan
Why did you choose MSLFMR? Most important was the genuine down to Earth people (faculty staff and residents)
Where did you complete your undergrad? University of Michigan
Where did you go to medical school? Michigan State University CHM
What does your perfect day look like? Spending time with family and friends.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Read, Hike, sing, sew, gardening, Watch TV with nephews and husband
What are your post-residency plans? Working in an outpatient setting
Sherry Magrey, MD

Where are you from? I’m from Cleveland, Ohio.
Why did you choose MSLFMR? Many reasons! First, the people at McLaren St. Luke’s are incredibly welcoming, friendly, and caring. In addition, the program offers incredible training and a deep commitment to providing excellent education to Family Medicine residents. Finally, the faculty are excellent educators who love teaching and there is a strong camaraderie between the residents.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I earned my BS in Chemistry from John Carroll University in University Heights, Ohio.
Where did you go to medical school? I graduated from the University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences
What does your perfect day look like? My perfect day involves me having some time to sleep in, but also enough of the morning left to enjoy a relaxing breakfast. Then, I would spend some time being active and enjoying the outdoors. Finally, I’d love to enjoy a wonderful home cooked dinner with family and friends and have plenty of time to socialize and enjoy the evening.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? I enjoy spending time outdoors, staying physically active, cooking/baking, and spending time with family and friends.
What are your post-residency plans? I’m interested in all aspects of Family Medicine and hope to care for patients of all ages – from newborns through the elderly. I hope to practice inpatient and outpatient medicine and perform a variety of procedures. Finally, I have a strong passion for teaching and hope to educate medical students/residents in the future.
Esther Mburu, MD

Where are you from? I was born in Euclid, OH (suburb of Cleveland), but my family moved to a Grove City (suburb of Columbus) before the end of elementary school.
Why did you choose MSLFMR? St. Luke’s was actually suggested to me by my school. I had applied for ObGyn programs, but ended up not matching. My school suggested I apply to Surgery, and Family Medicine programs during the SOAPing process, and I was accepted here. Things didn’t go at all according to plan (and I’m sure all the other type-A people in this process can understand how terrifying that is), but it worked out pretty well. The attendings were all very supportive from day one. I remember worrying about how I'd be treated by the other residents as someone who SOAPed in, but all the seniors treated me like everyone else so I wasn't even sure how many of them were involved in the admission process (reader, all of the residents take part). In my 11 months here, I have often said that residency has been better than med school, and I firmly believe its because of the people I work with. Despite nothing going as planned, things now are going pretty well.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I went to (the) Ohio State University for undergrad, and I studied Psychology with a minor in Biology.
Where did you go to medical school? I moved to Toledo to go to med school at University of Toledo College of Medicine.
What does your perfect day look like? Ooh, I like this question. My ideal day starts off with croissants on the couch. The only time I’d venture out of my apartment would be to go for a walk around the neighborhood with my dog. I’d get my food or groceries delivered so I can have my cheeseburger without leaving home. The middle of the day would be a toss-up (again, as long as I don’t have to leave home). The perfectionist in me loves a clean home, but the procrastinator lets things pile up until the once simple chore becomes a daunting task, so when I'm lucky, those perfect weekend days involve me making a homemade latte to enjoy while I tackle all the chores I've avoided during the week. The acoustics in my kitchen and hallway are *chef's kiss*, so karaoke sessions often occur simultaneously with all the chore work. I love the smell of rain (scientists have actually named it! Spend enough time with me and I'll somehow bring 'petrichor' up in a conversation), so it would start raining in the afternoon. I'd open the patio door and all the windows so that I (and my cats and dog) can smell the rain. In the evening, I'd pour myself a glass of wine, turn on an 80s sci-fi movie and tend to my indoor plants. Once my little indoor jungle has been cared for, I'll knit or crochet while watching more bad movies until it's time to go to sleep.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? I am a raging homebody and I love using my hands, so I love working on jigsaw puzzles (my largest one is a framed 3000 piece Star Trek puzzle). I also crochet (mostly blankets; I always feel cold and love big projects) and knit. I have a growing collection of plants that I keep indoors and a couple of cabinets that I’ve converted into greenhouses. I’m moving into a house with a large backyard soon, and can’t wait to plant things outside.
What are your post-residency plans? I plan to spend half of my time working inpatient and half in the clinic. I like the variety that working in clinic provides, but I like being in the hospital for short bursts of time. I don’t have a specific location I want to end up in, as long as I can afford a house with a backyard (for me and my dog’s sanity).

First Year Residents

Taylor Amburgy, DO

Where are you from? I’m from New London, OH
Why did you choose MSLFMR? I chose McLaren St. Luke’s because, after an enjoyable month of working with them, I realized I had found a residency with an exceptionally built culture. I found that McLaren St. Luke’s had the perfect combination of challenging you to be the best physician you can be with excellent teachers, while fostering a family atmosphere of simply awesome people. When interviewing with them I felt the same feelings, reaffirming this place was the real deal.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I attended The Ohio State University for undergraduate study in Medical Laboratory Science.
Where did you go to medical school? I attended New York Institute of Technology School of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University for medical school.
What does your perfect day look like? My perfect day starts with a workout in the morning. Breakfast with friends after. Then we go hiking in one of the beautiful Toledo Metroparks. After hiking, we go to some sort of body of water to soak up some sun, swim and fish. After that we go eat dinner and head back to my place to play some games and have some drinks.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Outside of work I enjoy: weight lifting, hiking, fishing, hanging with family/friends, music, trying new restaurants, new bars/wineries.
What are your post-residency plans? I am not totally sure of my plans after residency but I do think I want to pursue a fellowship and practice in a more rural setting.
Salah Awadalla, MD

Where are you from? I was born in San Francisco, California, but lived most of my life in New Orleans, Louisiana and consider that my hometown. Ethnically I am a Palestinian Arab and I am incredibly proud of my culture and heritage.
Why did you choose MSLFMR? I chose McLaren St Luke’s because it had the best combination of residency and family life. It has some of the best rated public schools in the country for my kids and It’s an incredibly safe area to raise my family. In terms of residency benefits it is an unopposed program which puts me first in line to learn and better myself as a doctor. What really got me though was during the interview process I felt the camaraderie between the residents and the genuine care from everyone at the program. I truly felt at home and I felt comfortable.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I completed my undergraduate studies at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans (LSUHSC) and earned my Bachelors in Cardiopulmonary Science.
Where did you go to medical school? I went to Medical School at St. George's University School of Medicine.
What does your perfect day look like? My perfect day is sleeping in and staying up late lol. I enjoy spending time with my wife and two kids watching movies or exploring new places.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? I enjoy playing tackle football with my cousins. I enjoy watching the Saints play (WHO DAT). I enjoy MMA (Khabib and Mohammad Ali are my favorite athletes). I also really like Harry Potter and finally I really enjoy learning about the latest and greatest new tech (like TV’s, and smart devices).
What are your post-residency plans? Who knows what the future holds, but currently I am interested in sports medicine and aesthetic medicine.
Joshua Greenberg, MD

Where are you from? Originally from Long Island, NY but moved to Sarasota, FL at the age of 11.
Why did you choose MSLFMR? I chose McLaren St. Luke’s FMR because I liked that the residents felt like a family and the outpatient and inpatient training seemed well balanced.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, NY.
Where did you go to medical school? I completed my medical degree at St. George’s University School of Medicine.
What does your perfect day look like? My perfect day would be meeting up with friends for lunch or dinner and watching a New York Yankees Baseball game.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Outside of medicine I like to research investment opportunities, I like to watch baseball, I enjoy going to the gym and watching movies.
What are your post-residency plans? My post residency plans are to practice hospital-based medicine as a family physician.
Marisa Hur, DO

Where are you from? I grew up about an hour away in Michigan!
Why did you choose MSLFMR? Family Medicine gives us the privilege to provide care to someone for DECADES. How cool is that?! I chose St. Luke’s because it’s close to home!
Where did you complete your undergrad? Michigan State University. Go Green!
Where did you go to medical school? West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
What does your perfect day look like? A day full of sunshine and laughter with friends and family. Bonus points if we end the day with a bonfire.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Travel to visit my friends, try new experiences, and camping
What are your post-residency plans? We’ll see where the wind takes me. :)
Nicholas Weber, MD

Where are you from? I was raised on Long Island, New York.
Where did you complete your undergrad? I completed my undergraduate degree at University of Miami where I worked closely with athletes in physical therapy. After finishing medical school, he decided to pursue a career in primary care and preventative medicine. My experience in my masters of public health at NYU aligned with McLaren St. Luke’s Family Medicine Residency mission and my career goals.
What are your post-residency plans? I aim to pursue sports medicine to treat all types of physically active patients including young children to professional athletes.
Claire Wong, MD

Where are you from? I grew up in Phoenix, AZ before moving to Los Angeles.
Why did you choose MSLFMR? The kindness of the people and the beautiful scenery is what drew me to the Midwest. I chose McLaren St. Luke’s Family Medicine Residency Program because of its caring faculty, residents, and emphasis on teaching.
Where did you complete your undergrad? Occidental College.
Where did you go to medical school? American University of Integrative Sciences School of Medicine, and completed clinical rotations in Michigan.
What does your perfect day look like? I love going on adventures especially ones that involve yummy food, beautiful sights, and great company.
What do you like to do outside of medicine? Some of my other hobbies include experimenting with making desserts, playing the piano, fawning over animals, making plushies, and photography.
What are your post-residency plans? Following residency, I plan to work in outpatient medicine and have interests in preventative care and behavioral health.

Contact Us

Casey Hoppert
Academic Program Administrator
Email: Casey.Hoppert@stlukeshospital.com

McLaren St. Luke's Family Medicine Residency
St. Luke’s Family Medicine Center
7045 Lighthouse Way – Harbor Town, Perrysburg, OH 43551 | Google Maps
P: 419-873-6836

Additional Info

Family Medicine Residency - McLaren St. Luke's

Welcome to Our Family Medicine Residency - McLaren St. Luke's Program

A Message from the Program Director

Accreditation

Primary Training Site

Curriculum

The First Year

The Second Year

The Third Year

Electives

Osteopathic Experiences & Curriculum

Tracks

J. Christian Zona, MD, MEd, FAAFP

Megan Cranor, DO, MPH

John Hanna, MD, FAAFP

Jeffrey Lewis, MD, FAAFP

Anna Nelson, MD, MS

David Oram, MD, FAAFP

Virginia Hiltner, APRN-CNP-CNM

Mark Krautheim, PhD

Michelle O’Brien, PharmD, BCACP

Tony Pfeiffer, MSW, LISW-S

Elizabeth Barga, DO

Matthew Hogan, DO

Valeriya Korchina, DO

Shikha Mistry, MD

Suchitra Nair, MD

Ian Thomas, MD

Alex Altman, MD

Parker Awerkamp, DO

Bradley Jerew, DO

Aleta Luesse, MD

Sherry Magrey, MD

Esther Mburu, MD

Taylor Amburgy, DO

Salah Awadalla, MD

Joshua Greenberg, MD

Marisa Hur, DO

Nicholas Weber, MD

Claire Wong, MD

Casey Hoppert