Family Medicine

Shabina Wigneswaran, MD

Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Family Medicine stood out to me because of its well-rounded and immersive approach to training. I can see patients from different cultures and socio-economic statuses in both inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as the ED. The level of diversity in education was exactly what I was looking for. After connecting with the residents and faculty, it became clear that this is a program where I would be challenged, supported, and truly prepared for the full scope of Family Medicine, whether I am in the city or decide to practice rurally after these 3 years.

Mouna Wehbeh, MD

Being from the area, I knew I wanted to stay close to home and give back to the community that shaped me. Mountainside felt like the right fit from the start — a place where I could get strong, full-spectrum training while working with a diverse patient population. The faculty were down-to-earth and genuinely invested in resident growth, and the supportive, close-knit vibe really stood out to me. It felt like somewhere I could learn, grow, and make a real impact. I am excited to be here and have it shape me into a great physician.

Akshay Paspulati, MD

I knew I’d enjoy my time at Mountainside after my second look. At first, I was mostly drawn by how close it was to my family in Jersey City and how much my peers enjoyed their rotations here. But when I came back, I really got a feel for the program’s warmth, support, and genuine commitment to both patients and residents. While I complete my first elective in the ICU, I already feel like a real part of the team. I’m involved in patient care, learning constantly, and seeing how much I enjoy the fast-paced nature of inpatient medicine.

Anthony Meyer, DO

I am truly grateful to be a part of HackensackUMC Mountainside Family Medicine Residency. This is an excellent environment to serve patients of all ages and has an impact in promoting the optimal health of the communities we serve. Working alongside an amazing team and network of supportive resources, I aim to provide the highest quality of care on each day and for every patient. The medical knowledge that I will continually build upon at HackensackUMC Family Medicine Residency undoubtedly reaffirms my deep commitment to making a positive impact in medicine.

Rhett McKnight, MD

From the moment I began my journey with HackensackUMC Mountainside Family Medicine Residency Program, I sensed a rare combination of warmth, professionalism, and dedication to patient-centered care. What impressed me most during the interview process was how genuinely the residents and faculty cared not only about medicine but also about each other’s growth and well-being. As a new resident, I’ve already felt the

Vanessa Mathieu, MD

From my initial encounter with the Mountainside Family Medicine Residency Faculty, I felt an immediate sense of belonging. I knew this was a place I wanted to call home. Having been born and raised in Essex County, I can personally attest to how much Mountainside Hospital is dedicated to meeting the needs of its patients. When choosing a residency program, strong community involvement and resident support were very important to me, and Mountainside has exceeded my expectations. It is very evident that the faculty and staff here truly care about our well-being.

Nathan Fishman, DO

I chose Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center because I strongly believe in the program’s approach to medicine. Its emphasis on down-to-earth, friendly, patient-centered care aligns perfectly with my core values as a physician. From the very start, I felt I could be myself with the staff, faculty, residents, and attendings. I am confident that this environment will allow me to grow both personally and professionally while delivering the highest standard of care to a diverse patient population.

Saraf Mehjabeen, D.O.

Choosing HackensackUMC Mountainside Hospital for my residency training has been an excellent decision. From my initial meetings with the faculty, residents, and program director, I immediately sensed a deep culture of camaraderie, fellowship, and mutual support. I’m thankful to now experience this environment firsthand as a resident. The guidance provided to each person throughout the course of the program fosters continuous personal growth and confidence as physicians.

Douglas Tan, M.D.

I was excited to match with Hackensack Mountainside, despite it being far from home, because of its camaraderie and strong curriculum. During my interview, I witnessed a culture of academic excellence and a strong sense of support among the residents. I am confident that my training at Mountainside, coupled with the team of amazing individuals, I have the privilege of working alongside, will allow me to become a well-rounded and competent family medicine physician.

Jiawei Song, M.D.

Located in the heart of Montclair, New Jersey, Mountainside Medical Center is not just a hospital; it’s a community hub where patient care is personal and holistic. At Mountainside, we have abundance of opportunities to work directly with experienced physicians in multiple specialties. Attendings and residents are not only knowledgeable but most importantly welcoming and approachable. From day one, I felt welcomed into a supportive environment that values both clinical excellence and genuine compassion.