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Ajay Raikhelkar, DO
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Undergrad: University of Arizona
Medical School: New York Institute of Technology College of Medicine
Favorite Activities: Basketball, working out, pickleball, trying new food, hanging out with friends
Why I chose Arizona Banner Desert Family Medicine: I grew up and have spent the majority of my life in the east valley of Phoenix! Being back here for residency has given me the opportunity to serve the community that nurtured me while also being close to family and friends. Being the first class for the Banner Desert program is exciting because I will be able to serve a community I cherish while also helping to build a desirable program for future residents.
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Brandon Xavier, MD
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Undergrad: Clemson University
Medical School: University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville
Favorite Activities: I love sports, especially going to live sporting events! I also enjoy traveling, most outdoor activities like running, hiking, and skiing. I also try to prioritize spending time with family and friends.
Why I chose Arizona and Banner Desert Family Medicine: My interview really stood out to me! It was very apparent that the faculty all wanted to foster a nurturing environment and truly cared about me as a person! Coming from SC, I also enjoyed the opportunity to explore a cool new part of the country that had the opportunities to dive into many of my favorite hobbies.
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Felicia Romero, DO
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Undergrad: Pacific Union College
Medical School: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine in New Mexico
Favorite Activities: I love discovering hidden gem food places, exploring local events, and exploring what makes a community unique. In my downtime, I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, tackling puzzles, knitting, and going to concerts and exhibitions.
Why I chose Arizona and Banner Desert Family Medicine: I was immediately drawn to the program’s warm, family-like atmosphere and its strong commitment to community-focused, comprehensive family medicine training. I am so excited to join a residency program that so closely aligns with my goals and is filled with excellent faculty and staff. I have no doubt that this next chapter will not only support my professional aspirations but also help me grow personally in meaningful ways. And I have to admit—the ever-expanding food scene in the East Valley was definitely a bonus that won me over, too!
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Heema Patel, MD
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Undergrad: Purdue University
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University
Favorite Activities: Cooking, painting/arts & crafts, hiking/taking walks, exploring new coffee shops.
Why I chose Arizona and Banner Desert Family Medicine: As a California native, I was drawn to Arizona for its closeness to home, sunshine, and outdoor lifestyle. I chose Banner Desert because I saw the opportunity to be part of a growing program with strong clinical training and a mission to serve a diverse community. I’m excited to help shape the culture of a new residency while building lasting connections with patients and colleagues.
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Natalie Rice, MD
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Undergrad: University of Chicago
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix
Favorite Activities: I enjoy cross stitching, hiking, cooking, watching hockey, chilling with my cat Sebastian, and spending time with my family and friends!
Why I chose Arizona and Banner Desert Family Medicine: I’ve loved living in Phoenix for medical school (goodbye Chicago winters!), and Arizona truly feels like home now. As a recipient of the University of Arizona Primary Care Scholarship, I’m committed to practicing in an underserved community here after residency. I chose UACOMP Banner Desert because it’s exciting to be a part of building a new program under the UACOMP umbrella. I was especially drawn to the clinic-first model, teaching and leadership opportunities, and focus on resident wellbeing. I’m confident that Banner Desert will help me grow into a strong family physician-- and I’m honored to be part of its growth as a member of the first class!
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Robby Hair, DO
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Undergrad: Brigham Young University – Provo, Utah
Medical School: Midwestern University – Glendale, Arizona
Favorite Activities: I enjoy watching and playing sports, hiking, riding my Vespa scooter, reading books, and hanging out with my family.
Why I chose Arizona and Banner Desert Family Medicine: I chose Banner Desert because of the focus on clinic training while also providing extensive inpatient training at one of the largest hospitals in the valley. I am excited to help shape and develop this program, which I feel confident will support me as I work towards my goals. My family enjoys living in the Phoenix area and we are excited for me to train with University of Arizona and Banner Health.
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