Current Residents

Medical School

John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii

I was born and raised in Waiʻehu, Maui, and am a proud graduate of H.P. Baldwin High School. I earned a bachelor’s degree in biology at Yale University before coming home for medical school at the University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM).

Witnessing a shortage of physicians in Hawaii when I was growing up, I became determined to enter medicine myself to help overcome this barrier to quality care. In medical school I was fortunate to find mentors who supported my dream of returning to Maui to contribute to my community. I appreciate the comprehensive approach in internal medicine. This specialty also affords the opportunity to develop long-term, meaningful relationships with patients as they navigate their journeys to better health.

Outside of the clinic I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hosting hearty meals at home, and practicing aloha ʻāina (love of the land), all of which enhance my physical and emotional well-being. I like to take an active mentorship role in my community, especially with projects such as Protect Kahoʻolawe ʻOhana and the farm at Kāko’o ‘Ōiwi.

Medical School

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine

Born and raised on the island of Oahu, I went to the University of Hawaii at Manoa to study biochemistry and later attended the University of Arkansas for medical school. I have since returned home, where I’m now a resident with the Kaiser Permanente Hawaii Internal Medicine Residency Program.

My parents emigrated from the Marshall Islands for a better life for themselves and our family. They were my biggest supporters, and I’m grateful for the values they imparted to me, including the importance of education and serving others. In medical school, I was fortunate to meet physicians and public health workers who shared a similar mission. Their commitment to helping others and impacting the Marshallese community inspired me to do the same as a health care professional.

I listen to podcasts, go to the beach, and play pickup basketball to stay physically and emotionally fit. I especially enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends.

Medical School

University of New Mexico School of Medicine

My parents emigrated from the Soviet Union to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where I grew up speaking both English and Russian. I went to Colorado University at Boulder for undergraduate and graduate school, to Georgetown University for a Master of Science in Physiology, and to the University of New Mexico for my medical degree.

During undergraduate studies I became fascinated by chemistry and physiology. Also around this time I had some friends who struggled with mental illness. These events gave me the impetus to become a physician. I welcome the challenge of caring for the wide range of patients we see in the hospital. Being trained in internal medicine gives me the option to practice in either the hospital or clinic setting. Some of my specialty interests are critical care, endocrinology, and medical care in rural, underserved communities.

Practising jiu jitsu helps me stay healthy and relaxed. I also enjoy cooking, reading, playing video games, riding my bike, going to the beach, and striving to be a good husband.

Medical School

Washington State University Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine

I grew up in Washington state in a town called Lake Stevens. I attended the University of Washington where I studied biochemistry and art history. Then, I graduated from the Washington State University Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine and am so excited to complete my residency training here. Although their climates are vastly different, my family ties to the island community of Ketchikan, Alaska made me especially excited to continue my training in Hawaii. My grandmother immigrated from Mindanao in the Philippines to Ketchikan in the early 1950s. From there, she worked as a nurse while starting a family and has grown to become a respected and beloved community leader.

I chose this career path because medicine fulfills my desire to serve others and pursue lifelong learning. It’s always an honor to hear patients’ stories, to experience part of their life journey, and explore the best treatment and care for them. I believe in caring for the whole person – not only treating their ailment, but also addressing the systems that perpetuate health inequity, such as socioeconomic barriers to care. In addition to practicing medicine, I’m enthusiastic about traveling, community volunteering, and advocacy.

I enjoy outdoor active such as new hikes and ocean sports! I’m a huge foodie and love to eat at new restaurants and experiment with new recipes in the kitchen. I try to cook healthy and do meal prep for long work weeks. Traveling, particularly to foreign destinations, is a source of great joy for me. I appreciate small comforts such as evenings with my partner, games with my friends and family, and catching up on the phone on long walks. An avid fan of both Star Wars and Star Trek, I’m always eager to talk about these beloved franchises.

Medical School

University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine

I was born in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, and grew up in Rochester, New York. I did my undergraduate studies at the State University of New York and medical training at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. My parents taught me the importance of being resilient and having a solid work ethic. A cousin, in turn, influenced me to pursue a career involving service in local and international arenas. My mother lived in Honolulu as a teen when her father served in the U.S. Navy. As a result, I always wanted to live on Oahu, even if only temporarily. So being here now is very meaningful to me.

I began to think about becoming a doctor when, at my college roommate’s suggestion, I became an emergency medical technician and volunteered in this capacity on campus. The diversity of internal medicine requires extensive knowledge of many specialties. I’m especially interested in preventive medicine, women’s health and advocacy, managing chronic disease, and treating patients in acute, high-pressure settings.

I started learning to surf in Maine and am excited to continue in Honolulu! I enjoy lifting weights, participating in league volleyball, doing yoga and pilates, biking, hiking, disc golfing, dancing, going on long walks, dabbling in painting, traveling, and trying local restaurants, cafes, and farmers’ markets. Most of all, I find comfort in family and friends.

Medical School

John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii

Born and raised on Oahu, I attended Punahou School, Stanford University, and the University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine. I have a Master of Public Health in Native Hawaiian and Indigenous Health from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. After working in nonprofit organizations and public health, I returned to school to pursue a career in medicine. My motivation came from observing both ends of the life spectrum with my three young children and aging parents. This experience made me realize the significance of preventive health care measures and high-quality medical services for everyone.

As an internist, I have the privilege of working with patients of all ages. Having experienced how confusing the medical world can be, I strive to ensure that my patients understand their needs and help them make decisions to improve their long-term well-being.

Exercise helps me to clear and focus my thoughts and re-energize my body. I enjoy being in the ocean, swimming, kayaking, and taking walks and hikes with my golden retriever. In addition, I love to travel, spend time with my family, and even play a little golf (not very well) with my kids.

Medical School

John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii

I was born and raised on Oahu and attended Hanalani Schools. I went to the University of Hawaii at Manoa for my bachelor’s degree and to the University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine.

Growing up, I spent much time at my dad’s primary care clinic, witnessing the relationships and trust between him and his patients. Through this experience, I came to deeply appreciate a doctor’s unique role in helping improve the emotional and physical aspects of a person’s health and well-being.

I maintain daily habits that contribute to my health and productivity, such as wearing wrist weights around the house and listening to podcasts on the treadmill. I’m also conscious of expressing gratitude to those who support me. Outside of clinic, I enjoy being with family and friends, reading, exercising, and trying new eateries.

Medical School

California University of Science and Medicine – School of Medicine

My parents immigrated to the U.S. from Vietnam. I was born and raised in San Diego in a multigenerational family with humble beginnings.

I did my undergraduate studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, and received a master’s degree from Western University of Health Sciences. Subsequently, I went to medical school at the California University of Science and Medicine. I served as a medical interpreter and caregiver in my family. These experiences gave me the desire to bridge the gap between providers and disadvantaged populations. I want to advocate for those in need and ensure that my family’s legacy is one of service and integrity.

To enhance my physical and emotional well-being, I exercise, surround myself with positivity, and eat healthy. My husband and I enjoy being in the ocean, hiking, dining at nice restaurants, gardening, lifting weights, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Medical School

John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii

I was born at Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center and lived in Manoa and Niu Valley. After graduating from Punahou School, I went to Santa Clara University in California for undergraduate studies. I returned home to attend the University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine.

As I watched my mother and her family deal with cancer and the passing of my grandfather in an underserved rural area, I was motivated to become a doctor in hopes of improving access to care in my own community. I’ve published and given presentations on topics such as coronary artery disease, health care equity, and disparate effects of COVID-19 among Hawaii’s racial and ethnic groups.

I try to get outside every day. I enjoy many sports, including hiking, surfing, kayaking, and fishing. I play guitar and ukulele, study history, and, most importantly, spend quality time with family and friends over home-cooked meals.

Medical School

John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii

My family immigrated to Hawaii from Hong Kong, and I grew up on Oahu. After graduating from the University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine, I joined Kaiser Permanente Hawaii for residency training.

My interest in becoming a physician started at age eleven when my father was hospitalized. After watching his doctors diligently care for him, I knew that I wanted to one day be able to help others in that same way. I also served as an English interpreter for my relatives in medical situations and witnessed firsthand how the quality of care can be affected by a language barrier. It’s gratifying to help bridge that communication gap with Cantonese and Mandarin speakers in my practice.

I like to go on walks, play pickleball, read, explore different food and coffee spots, watch and create streaming content, and travel with family and friends.

Medical School

Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine

I was born and raised in Cheng Du, China – a community that prioritizes personal relationships and is home to giant panda bears. Being part of a loving, close-knit family taught me the importance of treating others with warmth and kindness.

Growing up around relatives living in underprivileged areas, I witnessed the hardships this population endures. Fortunately, my grandfather, a primary care doctor, could treat many of these people at home. Observing the transformative power of medicine as he cared for others inspired me to follow in his footsteps and become a physician.

I have various hobbies and interests, such as being a part-time Indian food chef and a full-time anime enthusiast. I love outdoor and indoor exercise, lounging with matcha boba, learning about new technology, and taking people on adventures. Most importantly, togetherness with loved ones will always be the source of my resilience and happiness.

Medical School

University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine

Elise Chong, MD, was raised in East Honolulu and is a graduate of Mid-Pacific Institute. She earned her medical degree from the University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine and is interested in lifestyle medicine, rural medicine, and medical education. Her personal interests include spending time with her family and dog, hiking and backpacking, rock climbing, golfing, and volunteering in the community, particularly in the loʻi.

Medical School

University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine

Kelli Kokame, MD, is from East Honolulu and attended Iolani School. She earned her medical degree from the University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine. In her free time, she enjoys hiking with loved ones (including dogs), mālama ‘āina, traveling, photography, and reading. Dr. Kokame has also volunteered with Papahana Kuaola, Special Olympics Hawaii, and Mālama Maunalua.

Medical School

University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine

Tiffany Kurozawa, MD, grew up in Kailua-Kona, graduated from Kealakehe High School, and earned her medical degree from the University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine. She’s a member of the American College of Physicians and is interested in rural health. Dr. Kurozawa enjoys spending time with family and friends, surfing, cooking and baking, going to the beach, and traveling. Her community engagement includes supporting the Hawaii H.O.M.E. Project and Special Olympics.

Medical School

University of Utah, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine

Jasmine Meder, MD, was raised in Aina Haina and graduated from Iolani School. She earned her medical degree from the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah and is interested in medical education. When she’s not working, Dr. Meder enjoys spending time with family, doing outdoor activities that also promote fitness, connecting with friends, and practicing new recipes or crafts. In the community, she’s been involved with Women Empowering Women in Leadership and Saturday Academy.

Medical School

Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Thomas Parpana IV, DO, was born and raised in Honolulu and attended University Laboratory School. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine and belongs to the American College of Osteopathic Internists and the American Osteopathic Association. He’s interested in cardiology and enjoys spending time with family, anime, exercising, and video games. He’s also a member of the Kiwanis Club of Alaka’i Young Professionals.