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Current Residents

First Year Residents

64502-Alam, Rafia

Rafia Alam, MBBS

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 1
Jinnah Sindh Medical University

I was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan where I also completed my medical education. My favorite aspect throughout my education and upbringing was the ability to be surrounded by people of all different cultures and walks of life, and I believe this has helped shape me into the person I am today. It is the curiosity for diseases existing across various medical fields which has made Internal Medicine inherently fascinating for me. Moreover, it is the continuity of care through fostering patient-physician relationships of this specialty that is most appealing. I feel I strive in a fast-paced, competitive and progressive environment. I believe in hard work, a positive attitude, teamwork and hustle until you get to where you really feel you belong.

“It ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.” – Rocky Balboa

Currently, I am interested in Gastroenterology. I will allow the next few years to decide where my interest takes me. I am looking forward to my experience at IU School of Medicine-Ball Memorial Hospital and enjoying the different cities of Indiana in my off time.

Read Bio Rafia Alam, MBBS

64509-Britto, Tanya

Tanya Britto, MBBS

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 1
Medical College Trivandrum

I hail from the beautiful coastal state of Kerala, South India. My journey in medical education began at Trivandrum Medical College, following which I pursued a post graduate degree in Radiology at St. John’s Medical College in Bangalore, India. I worked as a radiologist for eight fulfilling years, until life lead me down an unexpected path. Upon joining my husband in the United States, I took the opportunity to embark on a new chapter in my medical career. Motivated by a need for more meaningful patient interaction, I made a conscious decision to transition to the field of Internal Medicine.

I chose IU School of Medicine-Ball Memorial Hospital for several reasons. Not only does this institution align with my personal circumstances, but during the interview process, I felt a wonderful sense of warmth, support and camaraderie from the faculty and residents. Furthermore, my affinity for the Midwest and its genuine hospitality made it an easy choice.

Outside of my professional pursuits, I enjoy spending time with my family, which includes my two beloved dogs. I also love gardening, exploring my artistic talents through various forms of artwork, experimenting in the kitchen, going on long walks in nature and listening to music.

Read Bio Tanya Britto, MBBS

62367-Freihat, Mohammad

Mohammad Freihat, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 1
The Hashemite University Faculty of Medicine

Hi everyone. I am Mohammad. I was born and raised in Amman, Jordan. I got my MD from The Hashemite University in 2021. After that, I spent more than a year shadowing and working at Indiana University Simon Cancer Center. I had the decision to pursue a residency in internal medicine when I was in medical school as I felt that I am closest to patients in this field.

I am so excited to start my residency at IU SOM - Ball Memorial Hospital. Aside from the outstanding training and experience residents get, this place feels like home, and everyone is very supportive and cooperative.

In my free time, I enjoy going out for a walk, playing soccer, solving Sudoku puzzles, playing chess online, watching movies, and going out with friends on the weekends. 

Read Bio Mohammad Freihat, MD

64503-Javed, Zoya

Zoya Javed, MBBS

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 1
Dow Medical College

I was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan; known as the City of Lights. Growing up in a country where there are many underserved citizens and seeing their struggle sparked my passion in medicine. With the goal that one day I can be the one to help them. By getting acceptance to residency at IU School of Medicine-Ball Memorial Hospital, I am one step closer to achieving that goal.

Medicine has always intrigued me because of its wealth of knowledge. There are still many medical mysteries yet to be solved. My passion is fueled by my desire to be a life-long learner. I am really excited to start my residency at IU School of Medicine-Ball Memorial Hospital. I knew this program would be the perfect fit for me as everyone was very welcoming and friendly. I hope to become a well-rounded physician by gaining vast amounts of knowledge under the tutelage of amazing mentors at the program.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy doing the following activities: spending time with my family, tending to my vegetable garden, watching movies, catching up on tv series, playing video games, or just curling up with a good book with my cat on my lap.

Read Bio Zoya Javed, MBBS

64504-Panyala, Nitya

Nitya Panyala, MBBS

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 1
Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore

I was born in California and moved to India in 7th grade. I attended medical school in KMC, Mangalore. Watching my professors diagnose diverse pathologies and diseases with uncommon clinical presentations made me interested in internal medicine. I am grateful to have matched here and look forward to working at IU School of Medicine-Ball Memorial.

Whenever I get free time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, exploring new places, and trying new food.

Read Bio Nitya Panyala, MBBS

64505-Saleh, Akrum

Akrum Saleh, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 1
Hashemite University

Hi, y’all! My name is Akrum. I was born in sunny Florida, and I had the opportunity to grow up across multiple countries, which gave me a unique multicultural perspective. After completing my medical degree in Jordan, I made the decision to return to the United States to pursue my career in medicine.

During my first year of medical school, I had the honor of co-founding a voluntary group of medical students. Our mission was to serve underserved communities, and I'm proud of the impact we made in addressing healthcare disparities.

Aside from my love for healthcare, I have a wide range of interests. I'm particularly drawn to sports, with a special passion for motorsports. The thrill and competition of these events truly energize me. Additionally, staying active and working out are important aspects of my life, as they contribute to my overall well-being. I also find great joy in reading and appreciate the power of words to transport and inspire.

With my diverse background, passion for medicine, and dedication to community service, I strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others as I continue to pursue my professional aspirations.

Read Bio Akrum Saleh, MD

64510-Sighaka Sighaka, Damien

Damien A. Sighaka Sighaka, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 1
Ovidius University

I was born and raised in Cameroon, Africa where I developed a strong interest in medicine from witnessing my father taking care of his patients whenever I had the opportunity to be at his office. This led me to graduate from medical school in Romania and pursue a residency afterwards.

I got the privilege to work as a nurse which gave me a thorough exposure to the healthcare field in the US and further consolidated my determination to specialize in internal medicine as this is the ideal path to become a well-rounded physician. I got particularly interested in IU School of Medicine-Ball Memorial Hospital after interacting with some residents, faculties, staff who all demonstrated their commitment to deliver an excellent care to the community and highlighted the values that the hospital upholds.

I am truly grateful to be part of the residency program at IU School of Medicine-Ball Memorial Hospital and more than excited for my future years in Muncie.

During my free time I enjoy spending time with friends and family, rollerblading, lifting weights, motorsports, cooking.

Read Bio Damien A. Sighaka Sighaka, MD

64511-Singh, Bhavneet

Bhavneet Singh, MBBS

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 1
Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research

My interest in being a doctor sparked when I became a patient myself at a young age and was inspired to help people in the same way I was treated. Pursing my passion/interest led me to graduate from Sri Guru Ram Das Medical Institute with my MBBS and become one of the first doctors in my family.

After interviewing with IU School of Medicine-Ball Memorial, I was extremely delighted and grateful to find out that I matched into the program. I look forward to learning and enhancing my skill set at Ball Memorial Hospital so I can become the best physician possible for my patients.

During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, trying new foods, and gardening.

Read Bio Bhavneet Singh, MBBS

Second Year Residents

portrait of wesam alhadid

Wesam Alhadid, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 2
The Hashemite University

I was born in Richmond, Virginia, but was raised in Amman, Jordan, and received my education there, where I graduated from The Hashemite University.

I am very excited to join the Internal Medicine Residency at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital and the Muncie community. I was attracted to many aspects of the program, from the collegiality and family feel I sensed between the residents to the supportive faculty and the hands-on experience with the exposure needed to advance my career as a physician delivering high-quality, passionate patient care.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy watching and playing soccer, lifting weights, and most importantly spending time with friends and family.

Read Bio Wesam Alhadid, MD

portrait of marriam ali

Marriam Ali, MBBS

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 2
CMH LMC

I was born and raised in Lahore, Pakistan and belong to a family of doctors, with my mother, brother and sister-in-law all being exceptional physicians in their respective fields. Having followed my mother around in hospitals as a kid and hearing the medical jargon, medicine has always fascinated me, probably owing to my family's positive experience of the field.

I married my high school sweetheart and moved to Muncie in 2021. As my husband was already training as a resident at IU School of Medicine/Ball Memorial Hospital and had always spoken so highly of the program and the staff, it was a no brainer for me as to what program would be my number one choice. My brother-in-law and uncles being only a few hours’ drive away was a cherry on top as spending time with family and friends is a way of relieving stress for me.

My hobbies include cycling, working out and having LOTR marathons with my husband.

Read Bio Marriam Ali, MBBS

portrait of mona atta

Mona Atta, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 2
Ross University School of Medicine

I was born in Pittsburgh after my parents settled there from Pakistan and I have since lived in many places across North America. My medical school journey at Ross University took me to some beautiful islands in the Caribbean before I found myself at home right nearby in Fishers, Indiana. All my settling and resettling strengthened my passion for people, ultimately affirming my interest in continuing to know and care for people through Internal Medicine.

I am excited to deepen my roots in Indiana and get in touch with the new communities in my reach throughout my residency at IU School of Medicine and Ball Memorial Hospital. I am confident I will grow more with every day here and through every human encounter at this illustrious facility.

When I am outside the hospital, you will probably find me taking a walk or reading and in every moment striving to connect with the world around me.

Read Bio Mona Atta, MD

portrait of mina batarseh

Mina Batarseh, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 2
University of Jordan

I attended medical school at the University of Jordan and completed a one-year internship. During my training, I grew to appreciate the role of internal medicine in patient care, so I decided to pursue it as a specialty.

I am delighted to match for residency at IUH Ball Memorial Hospital, as the program reflects many of the aspects I look for to advance my medical career. The people are very welcoming and helpful, and the culture revolves around medical excellence and supporting each other.

Outside of medicine, I like to play video games learning about technology and computers and playing basketball.

Read Bio Mina Batarseh, MD

portrait of aireen lacap

Aireen Lacap, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 2
St. Luke's Medical Center College of Medicine -- WQHM

Hi, I’m Aireen! I was born in St. Louis, MO. Until June 2021, I had never travelled outside of the Philippines. Since I was a kid, I dreamt of becoming a doctor. Since I was in college, I dreamt of practicing in the US. By the grace of God and the full support of my wonderful family, I graduated from St. Luke’s Medical Center College of Medicine, and I am excited to start residency training at IU School of Medicine and IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital.

IU Health Ball Memorial was the last interview invite I received and the last interview I attended, but they gave me the lasting impression — these are the kind of people I want to work and grow with. I know the rigor of residency will get to me at times, but our mentors take care of their in-training doctors so that they can take good care of their patients. It is the same kind of supportive culture I want to imbibe in my future practice in primary care someday.

Out of the hospital, I am probably doing YouTube dance workouts, practicing my cooking, rewatching my favorite films with giant spaceships or monsters, and reading ridiculous sci-fi books. I love the sea, and I have a weird penchant for abandoned places and shipwrecks.

Read Bio Aireen Lacap, MD

portrait of keeret mann

Keeret Mann, MBBS

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 2
Government Medical College Amritsar

Hi everyone, I’m Keeret and I am thrilled to have matched at the Internal Medicine Residency program at IU Health Ball Memorial Hopsital! From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a doctor as it was the ideal combination between helping people, being able to understand complex subjects about the human body, and always striving to satisfy my curiosity for knowledge. I was born and raised in Vancouver, Canada, but moved to India after high school. My passion and pursuit of medicine led me to completing medical school at Government Medical College Amritsar. There, I encountered many great experiences which instilled in me the resilience and ambition needed to be where I am today. This is also where I met the love of my life! After my husband and I got married, I moved to the United States, and I am now excited to call Muncie home for the next three years.

During the residency interview process, IU Health Ball Memorial stood out to me for a variety of reasons. The welcoming atmosphere, tailored curriculum, career mentoring, autonomy given to the residents, and the camaraderie between the residents and attendings alike made it a place where I knew I would both be happy and flourish. I believe I made an excellent choice ranking this program #1 and I am grateful to be here. I am looking forward to learning and growing into the best physician I can be.

Outside of medicine, my hobbies include interior design, reading, journal writing, exploring new places and foods as well as hanging out with friends and family!

Read Bio Keeret Mann, MBBS

portrait of luis salazar

Luis Salazar, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 2
Universidad San Carlos de Guatemala

My interest in medicine started with the fascination I felt during biology classes in high school, here in Indiana. After a few twists and turns in life I decided to pursue medical school in Guatemala, where I was born and lived until 8 years old. During my time in medical school, I was exposed to the disparities in health care that encumbers many people today. This is something that has very much shaped me as a physician and which I hope will improve the care I provide for my patients. Vital to my success in this journey was the support of my wife, my grandfather, my parents, friends, and family. I look forward to being at IUH Ball Memorial and coming back to Indiana!

When I'm not in the hospital or studying, you can most likely find me doing long distance rides on my bike, running, and playing video games!

Read Bio Luis Salazar, MD

portrait of nayan shrestha

Nayan Shrestha, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 2
Kathmandu Medical College

Life is a blessing but at the same time it is fragile. I learned this at an early age; having witnessed my elder brother suffer myocardial infarction and losing my close aunt to cardiac arrest. These life events touched me profoundly and ignited my desire to understand human physiology.

Hi everyone! My name is Nayan and I grew up in Nepal and graduated from Kathmandu Medical College (KMC) in 2018.

My quest to learn about human physiology led me on a non-traditional route to medical school. Right before medical school, I spent 5 years living in a spiritual ashram, away from material living, practicing meditation and yoga. During medical school, I immersed myself into research and volunteering. I was successful in publishing multiple research papers and leading a local chapter of Lions Club International. It was during medical school that I decided to apply for the United States Medical Residency Program.

I am grateful to have matched at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital Internal Medicine Residency Program. The strong academic program with institutionally based faculty members with a commitment to teaching and academic excellence is what attracted me to IU Health Ball Memorial. I am looking forward to growing in this caring and supportive environment and to enhance my skills to become a compassionate and caring clinician.

In my leisure time, I enjoy spending time with my family, doing yoga and meditation, traveling, hiking, playing Sudoku, and cooking.

Read Bio Nayan Shrestha, MD

Third Year Residents

portrait of dr. beirat

Amir Beirat, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 3
University of Jordan

I was born in Fort Lauderdale, FL, but grew up and lived most of my life in Jordan. I attended medical school at the University of Jordan and completed a year-long medical internship after graduating. My experiences throughout medicine along with the great mentors I was able to work with allowed me to experience the many different aspects of Medicine contributing to my choice of pursuing Internal Medicine. I am excited to be a part of the IUH Ball Memorial Hospital family and the Muncie community. Medicine aside, I enjoy spending my free time exploring new places, weightlifting, solving puzzles, hiking, and most of all hanging out with friends and family.

Read Bio Amir Beirat, MD

portrait of dr. dhillon

Vijaypal Dhillon, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 3
Government Medical College Amritsar

Though I was born in Queens, New York, I have lived all over the United States including Michigan, Texas, California, and now Indiana. Wanting to learn more about my culture and heritage, I studied in India and completed my MBBS from Government Medical College Amritsar. Living there and seeing different walks of life helped me grow as not only a physician, but as a person. It was an enlightening experience that strengthened my resolve to pursue medicine.

On interview day, I was excited to interview with IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital. During my interview, the faculty seemed very passionate and excited to teach. We bonded over common interests and experiences. The residents felt supported and were extremely vocal about their positive experience at the program. With my goal being to find a program which fosters personal and professional growth, I knew IU Health Ball Memorial was somewhere I wanted to be. I am looking forward to being part of the community.

Outside of medicine I enjoy spending time with my wife, reading comics, sports, working out and watching Netflix. I love reading about cutting edge technology and watching the occasional romcom for fun.

Read Bio Vijaypal Dhillon, MD

portrait of dr. emran

Joseph Emran, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 3
Hashemite University

As the first doctor in the family, medical school was a challenge initially as I lacked a role model and vision, but with dedication and hard work, I graduated from Al-Hashemite University, Jordan. While I received exceptional training in Jordan and bonded to my community in bettering lives, my desire to be close to immediate family sparked my US residency journey. I had the privilege of matching for residency here at Ball Memorial Hospital, and am excited to be a part of this community! Aside from medicine, I enjoy cooking, taking long drives, and most importantly spending quality time with family and friends.

Read Bio Joseph Emran, MD

portrait of dr. khan

Ibrahim Khan, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 3
JSS Medical College

My name is Ibrahim khan and I am from Orange County, California. A desire to advance myself academically in an ongoing manner, a love for science, and a passion to serve others led me to pursue medicine and graduate from J.S.S Medical College in India.

While in medical school I began to appreciate the integral role played by Internal Medicine in treating patients both in and out of the hospital, I was also drawn to the exposure of a broad range of pathology we encounter and the ability to pursue various fellowships. This led me to choose internal medicine. While researching residency programs and later interviewing at them, IU Health Ball Memorial stood out for its strong academic program, distinguished faculty, and a supportive environment. Throughout my interview process, the genuineness of everyone in the program was palpable. I am truly grateful to become a part of the IU health Ball Memorial family and look forward to calling Muncie my home.

Outside of the hospital, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, playing basketball, exploring the outdoors, and anything that gets my adrenaline pumping!

Read Bio Ibrahim Khan, MD

portrait of dr. menakuru

Sasmith Menakuru, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 3
Narayana Medical College

Hello everyone! My name is Sasmith, and I was born and raised in New York and have lived there most of my life. I decided to go to Medical School in India, where I attended Narayana Medical College. From a young age, my goal was always to help people in any way I could, and I carried these values with me throughout my life. This led me to develop an interest in Internal Medicine as it allows me to form bonds with my patients while also giving me challenges in the form of complex cases. Becoming a doctor has always been a constant in my life, and I am excited to begin my journey.

I am delighted I matched into Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Hospital’s Internal Medicine Program, as I believe the program will give me the tools required to be the best doctor that I can possibly be. I mainly looked for three aspects in a program. First, I wanted a rigorous training program that would prepare me to become a strong and compassionate clinician. Second, I was keen on a program that would allow me to see a wide range of cases and a focus on teaching. Lastly, I wished to be in a program where everyone was warm and supportive and would be invested in my growth as a budding physician. The program here at IU Health Ball Memorial fulfilled all that I desired, and I am very proud to be here. I am looking forward to my three years here and will make the most of my time here in Muncie.

In my free time, I love cooking, making hot sauces, traveling, investing, adventure sports, and hanging out with friends. Some of my accomplishments include becoming an Eagle Scout with a Double Sliver Palm and creating an NGO during my time in India for the underserved. I love meeting new people and making new friends from all walks of life, and I am always on the lookout for a new adventure.

Read Bio Sasmith Menakuru, MD

portrait of dr. salih

Ahmed Salih, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 3
Cairo University Faculty of Medicine

My story started when I was in 1st grade! My father, who is a nephrologist, would pick me up from school and take me with him to the hospital. Some moments can define your whole life, and as such, I was in love with the clinical setting.

I am originally from Sudan, a country in north east Africa but I was born and raised in Arar, Saudi Arabia. After high school I moved to Egypt as I was awarded a scholarship to study medicine at Cairo University. After graduation, I practiced medicine in Egypt and rotated for several months in different clinics in the US. Living in all these countries, I relished working with people from diverse backgrounds and thus increased my cultural sensitivity, a necessity when patients attend from all walks of life.

Many experiences later, I was hired by the Mayo Clinic as a postdoctoral research fellow in the Internal Medicine department. This position has embraced my curious mind and helped me intensify my contribution to the advancement of medicine.

IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital stood out from all my other interviews. The focus on the residents, training and friendliness I experienced during my interview was enough to rank it on the top of my list. I am extremely excited to call Muncie home for the next three years.

Apart from medicine, you will find me exploring new places, taking pictures, listening to music, or watching a TV series. I currently have a goal to read a book every month, learn a new skill every year and enjoy life to the fullest.

Read Bio Ahmed Salih, MD

portrait of dr. sheraz

Sana Sheraz, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 3
Ziauddin Medical School

I was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan, where after O and A Levels, I went to medical school at Ziauddin University. Coming from a family that puts high value in education, I was always determined to pursue the highest standards of professional excellence. Throughout my medical school, I traveled for elective rotations in different countries including the United States and experienced how medicine is practiced around the globe. For me, Internal Medicine was the plan since day one. I moved to the United States right after graduation and started a new life in northwest Indiana in 2014. Since then, Indiana has been home.

While studying for the USMLE, I rotated through multiple settings in internal medicine and its subspecialties. I was lucky to have been mentored by some truly exceptional physicians. I instinctively gravitated towards IUHBMH at the time of ranking. The expertise of Ball’s Internal Medicine program at building academic excellence and clinical acumen in its residents is unparalleled. Everyone at Ball, from the faculty to the coordinator to the senior residents, is invested in your professional growth and treats you like family. There has been considerable camaraderie among my own class since the day we found out we matched at Ball. I am confident that IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital will help me reach my peak potential while providing me with a platform to work in an area where I’d make the most impact.

Outside of work, I like to be outdoors for adventurous water sports or a simple tennis game. I love traveling and taking road trips. Hanging out with friends and family and going on shopping sprees— furniture, car, clothes, shoes, you name it— are my go-to hobbies.

Realistically, my plan involves being a hospitalist but I’m also interested in cardiology. Let’s see how life unfolds.

Read Bio Sana Sheraz, MD

portrait of umar

Muhammad Umar, MD

Internal Medicine (Muncie), PGY 3
Jinnah Sindh Medical University

I was born in Pakistan and graduated from one of the highly prestigious medical schools in Pakistan named Sindh Medical College. I moved to the United States in 2018; since then, I have rotated with many physicians, including a rotation at Stanford University. During one of my rotations, I was captivated by Internal Medicine due to the integral role of Internal Medicine in an individual’s overall health. IU Health Ball Memorial’s Residency program stood out due to its academic excellence, friendly environment, and intense clinical training. During the interview, I felt welcomed and appreciated the positive energy and approachable nature of everyone, including the program’s attendings. This sealed the deal, and I knew I wanted to train at IUH Ball Memorial Hospital.

Outside of medicine, I like to spend quality time with my family and friends, watching Netflix, team sports, lifting weights, investing, and exploring the nature.

Read Bio Muhammad Umar, MD