Internal Medicine Residents
PGY III
Lauren Anderson, DO |
| Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC Education: Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine Goals: Hospitalist Why Novant Health: The internal medicine program works very hard to make wellness a priority which is very important to me, and the people here are amazing - plus I love living near the beach! Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: The people and community, and of course the beach. Hobbies and Interests: Spending time with family and dogs. |
Bahaa Arbid, MD |
| Hometown: Chicago, IL Education: Ross University School of Medicine Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: I love catching all the comedy shows and plays that come through Wilmington. Hobbies and Interests: Long walks and hikes. A good horror story podcast. |
Garrett Fowler, DO |
| Hometown: Charlotte NC Education: UNC undergrad and Lincoln Memorial University for Med school Goals: Pursue a fellowship in Infectious Disease Why Novant Health: It is a big hospital with lots of great teaching/learning but still has a community feel. Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: I live in a place other people wish they did. Hobbies and Interests: Surfing, fishing, exercising, home projects and time with my wife and dog. |
S. Makenzie Jackson, DO |
| Hometown: Fayetteville, NC Education: Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: Always something to do Hobbies and Interests: Hanging out with Lauren aka my BFF |
Samuel Maruniak, DO |
| Hometown: Leesburg, FL Education: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: Breweries abounding, Grimm Burger, Cugino Forgino. Hobbies and Interests: Weightlifting, hiking, computer games. |
Derek Van Houzen, MD |
| Hometown: Lake Orion, Michigan Education: University of Medicine and Health Sciences Goals: Cultivate the knowledge and skills to become the physician that patients trust with their health and wellbeing Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: Rapidly growing population / infrastructure- always a new place to eat and new activities popping up. Beach life and good weather. Hobbies and Interests: Golf, surfing, beaching and jogging. |
Reyad Williams, MD |
| Hometown: Shelby, NC Education: Medical University of the Americas Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: Very dog friendly, beach, vibrant social atmosphere. Hobbies and Interests: Board games, writing, horseback riding, carpentry work and playing video games. |
PGY II
Ghazal Abu Salim, MD |
| Hometown: Gaza, Palestine Education: St. Georges University School of Medicine Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: The sense of peace and calm. The people are kind, the beach is never far, and I have work-life balance. Hobbies and Interests: I love meaningful conversations about the universe, time and the soul; preferably over arabiz coffee. I'm happiest exploring nature and introducing friends to the magic of knafeh, horseback riding, and swimming. |
Ameche Cameron, MD |
| Hometown: Sumter, SC Education: UNCC undergrad, Mississippi College master’s in biology, Trinity School of Medicine Goals: To strengthen and gain more clinical knowledge which will allow me to provide the highest level of care to all of my patients. My ultimate goal is to practice medicine somewhere in the Carolinas. Why Novant Health: Work life balance, bread and butter medicine, supportive GME team. Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: The beach. Hobbies and Interests: Reading and gardening. |
Fei Gao, DO |
| Hometown: Morganton, NC Education: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: Its relaxed coastal atmosphere that feels like home. Going to the beach, friendly people, and easy access to great fish spots. Hobbies and Interests: Weightlifting, fishing, aquarium keeping, football, spending time outdoors and I always enjoy learning something new or finding the best local fish spots. |
Emily German, DO |
| Hometown: Round Hill, VA Education: University of South Carolina, VCOM - Carolinas Campus Goals: To continue lifelong learning in medicine, and to provide the best possible care for my patients. Why Novant Health: Wilmington is a wonderful area with lots to do, and the beach is a bonus! The hospital has a wide variety of patients and pathologies, as well as opportunities to work with various specialists. Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: Welcoming our beach baby, Brooklyn Renee. Hobbies and Interests: Beach, hiking, marathons and traveling. |
Anthony Lledo, MD |
| Hometown: Ponce, PR Education: Trinity Medical Sciences University Goals: Be a great Nephrologist Why Novant Health: I chose Novant Health for its welcoming and familiar atmosphere, which I felt during my second look visit. Additionally, the opportunity to work in a large hospital with a diverse patient population is ideal for my professional growth and desire to serve a varied community. Languages: English and Spanish Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: I love living in Wilmington for its perfect blend of coastal beauty and vibrant community spirit, where I can unwind with a peaceful stroll along the river or recharge in cozy local coffee shops. From relaxing beach days to lively local events. Hobbies and Interests: Playing with my dog, watching sports, trying new restaurants and exploring local coffee shops. Interested in Transplant Nephrology. |
Carson Popper, DO |
| Hometown: Wilmington, NC Education: Campbell University School of Medicine Languages: English Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: Getting to spend my time off on the water. Hobbies and Interests: Fishing and hunting. |
Christina Rubio, DO |
| Hometown: Roanoke, VA Education: Undergrad: William & Mary, Medical school: Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine Goals: to expand my knowledge base and clinical skills, to care for patients with empathy and compassion, and ultimately to train to be a capable and well-rounded hospitalist Why Novant Health: I rotated here as a visiting student for a month in medical school and felt instantly at home (and fell in love with Wilmington). The kind and welcoming nature of the faculty and residents made me feel comfortable, and I felt it was the ideal environment in which I could learn and grow. The people here are not only incredible at what they do but are also good people that work to create a positive workplace environment and build each other up. These are the kinds of people that make you want to be better, not just for yourself but so that you can contribute to that positive environment as well. Languages: English and Spanish Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: Very friendly and active community with lots of opportunities to explore and socialize outside of work. Hobbies and Interests: Rock climbing, running, music, board games, reading and aviation. |
PGY I
Alec Basile, DO |
| Hometown: Lake City, PA Education: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: A major reason I chose Wilmington is that my wife’s family lives here, making it a meaningful place for us to call home. During my fourth year, I completed an audition rotation at NHRMC and was impressed by the welcoming faculty, supportive residents, and the strong sense of community within the hospital. The opportunity to live near the beach and enjoy year-round golfing are added perks, and with Wilmington’s continued growth, it’s an exciting place to live and build a future! Hobbies and Interests: I love spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking through scenic trails, walking along the beach, playing pickleball, or getting in a round of golf. My wife and I also share a passion for travel; we’re always planning our next adventure and enjoy exploring new places together. When we’re home, we like to stay busy with DIY house projects, constantly finding ways to make our space more comfortable and personal! |
Ami Changela, DO |
| Home Town: Pineville, NC Education: Edward via College of Osteopathic Medicine- Carolinas Campus Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: I chose Wilmington because it offers the perfect balance of community-based medicine and a supportive environment to grow as a resident. Having lived in the Carolinas for over 14 years, being near family while serving a diverse and underserved population feels like a great opportunity to me. Wilmington’s coastal charm and strong sense of community make it an ideal place to live, learn, and give back. Hobbies and Interests: Some of my hobbies and interests include painting, cooking, reading, long walks on the beach, hiking, exploring different restaurants, and traveling. |
Calvin Hamerski, DO |
| Hometown: Wilmington, NC Education: Campbell University School of Medicine Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: I am from Wilmington, and I am glad to be back for my residency training! My favorite part is the historic downtown area and the riverfront. There’s a lot to do in Wilmington and a lot of great people! Hobbies and Interests: Reading, board games, golf, laying on the beach. |
Nathan Loyd, DO |
| Hometown: Tulsa, OK Education: Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: When looking for potential training sites, there were a few things that were important to me. Being from a small town and hoping to return to a smaller community in the future, training at a community program that would give me exposure to issues surrounding rural healthcare. Community training, paired with a desirable place to live, lead me to apply to NHRMC in Wilmington. After my fiancé and I visited during our second look, we fell in love with the town. We are very excited to move across the country and share this experience! Hobbies and Interests: I enjoy hunting, fishing, kayaking, golf, weightlifting, and video games. I am usually found at the gym, near a body of water, or the golf course in my spare time. |
Elvida Mamedova, MD |
| Hometown: Charlotte, NC Education: Kabardino-Balkarian State University Faculty of Medicine, Russia Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: I'm originally from Charlotte, NC and one of the things I really appreciate about Wilmington is the slower pace of life. People here are so friendly and it's not nearly as busy or hectic as Charlotte. The beach it's a big plus; you can head there anytime you need to unwind, clear your mind and recharge. Hobbies and Interests: I have passion for music, dancing, and traveling. My next destination is Greece, and I can't wait to experience its culture and beauty. I also believe in lifelong learning; my personal philosophy is "if you learn something, you earn something" |
Farah Slaczka, MD |
| Hometown: Wendell, NC Education: Trinity Medical Sciences University Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: I chose Wilmington because I am a North Carolina native and wanted to stay close to home. I was very drawn to Novant Health's Internal Medicine program due to the unique program structure and warm environment I experienced during the second look visit. I am very excited to be moving to the area soon, and live close to the beach! Hobbies and Interests: Some of my hobbies include making art (particularly paintings), baking, board games, tennis, and pickleball. I also love to go for hikes and explore new restaurants. |
Mateusz Slaczka, MD |
| Home Town: Wendell, NC Education: Trinity Medical Sciences University Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: I chose Novant health because of how much I really enjoyed my interview process and the second look. Another bonus was how the schedule was set up. Wilmington is such a beautiful place, and I have come here to the beach every summer break since I can remember. The city has grown over the years, and this will be an amazing place to live! Hobbies and Interests: Some of my hobbies are basketball, soccer, pickleball, video gaming, and board games. I have an interest in cars and motorcycles, which I like to work on. |
Charlotte Slaughter, MD |
| Hometown: Wilmington, NC Education: American University of the Carribean School of Medicine Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: The people! Everyone is friendly, outgoing, and love adventures together. I feel lucky to be a part of such a close-knit community. Hobbies and Interests: Biking across town, gardening, fishing, and kayaking! |
PGY I - Preliminary
Ryan Burns, DO |
| Hometown: Buffalo, NY Education: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine Favorite thing about moving or living in Wilmington: Being close to multiple beaches and nice weather Hobbies and Interests: As a former hockey player, I enjoy watching hockey, football. Trying to make time for cooking new recipes. Remaining connected to friends through video games |