Meet our Family Medicine Residents
THIRD YEAR
Natalie Coleman, MD
I was born in Seattle and spent most of my childhood in Walla Walla, Washington. I live with my partner, who is a public-school kindergarten teacher, and our very spirited 2-year-old daughter, as well as our very patient cat, Billie. We are proud to be an openly queer family. Before medical school, I worked in a neuropathology lab at the University of Washington. I studied degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer's and traumatic brain injuries. Eventually, I was drawn to medicine because it allowed me to combine my love of science, wonder, working in the community, advocacy, and connecting with people. Being part of others' big life moments, both good and bad, is an honor. I chose to join Kaiser Permanente Washington Medical Education because of their patient-centered, team-based, and integrated approach to care and their commitment to equity and inclusion.
Samantha Forrest, MD
I grew up in Bozeman, Montana. I have a wonderful partner, and 2 hilarious golden retrievers mixes. I love working with people and getting to play a role in their health and happiness. I chose to join Kaiser Permanente Washington Medical Education because of its patient-centered, justice-minded approach to care. I appreciate that they are committed to improving patient care. I have a special interest in LGBTQ+ care, Latinx health care, and teen care. I believe that patients know their bodies best. My role is to provide evidence-based information about possible treatment plans, which allows patients to make the best decisions for their health. Health is closely tied to our experience and environment. I actively listen to my patients so that I can understand their lives and concerns. Caring for my patients and their families throughout their lives is deeply rewarding. It's a huge privilege to be a part of so many lives.
Catherine Le, DO
I was born and raised in Seattle, and I consider the Burien-White Center area my home. Growing up, I realized there was a strong need for access to health care. I wanted to help bridge the gap between healthcare disparity and equity, and that inspired me to go into medicine. I chose to join Kaiser Permanente Washington Medical Education because it's a supportive organization that is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. I appreciate their focus on high-quality, patient-centered care. I strive to treat my patients as I would want myself or my family to be treated. It's a privilege to care for my patients and their families throughout their lives.
Austin Nguyen, DO
I was born and raised in Seattle. My experiences as a child led me to pursue medicine. I wanted to become a bridge between immigrant families and accessible, quality health care. Before I began practicing medicine, I was a co-founder of Au Collective, a nonprofit dance organization based in Seattle. I chose to join Kaiser Permanente Washington Medical Education because of the genuine, caring staff and clinicians. I am excited to be a part of this inclusive organization and to serve my local community. I enjoy practicing the full spectrum of family medicine. I am especially interested in sports medicine, dance and performing arts medicine, women's health, obstetrics, and osteopathic manual manipulation and treatment. I take a patient-centered, holistic approach to care -- meaning I try to see each patient as a whole: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. It is important for me to recognize each of these qualities to ensure I'm providing the correct care. I always work with patients to determine what treatment plan they feel fits best with their needs and goals. It truly is a privilege to walk alongside patients in moments of need and to provide the care and love they deserve.
Mona Sabetrasekh, MD
I was born in Iran. I've lived in many places, but I consider Vancouver, British Columbia, my home. I was drawn to the full spectrum of patient care that family medicine has to offer. I completed medical training in Arizona and moved to Seattle for residency to be closer to my family. I'm excited to explore my new home. I chose to join Kaiser Permanente Washington Medical Education because of the collaborative, patient-centered approach to care. I appreciate the emphasis on diversity, anti-racism, and equity. I'm grateful to be part of a forward-thinking organization that is well-positioned to make the transitions necessary as the healthcare industry grows and changes. My areas of expertise include women's health, LGBTQ care, long-term patient care, geriatrics, veterans, and teen care. I take a holistic approach to patient care. My goal is to support my patients regardless of their disadvantages and demographic backgrounds. I love the continuity of care that family medicine offers. It's such a privilege to be part of so many lives and to help people in difficult times.
Genevieve White, MD
I was born and raised in Seattle. The Pacific Northwest is my lifelong home. I love living in downtown Seattle with my boyfriend. My mother, a nurse practitioner and midwife, inspired me to go into health care. I love medical challenges, as well as meeting new people and listening to their life stories. It is the highest honor to be trusted with my patients' care. It is deeply rewarding to be there for people in some of the hardest and best times of their lives. I chose to join Kaiser Permanente Washington Medical Education because of the excellent clinicians and staff. I look forward to working with new patients. I know I will grow both as a doctor and a person because of this opportunity. My areas of expertise include long-term patient care, LGBTQ+ care, gender-affirming care, and women's health. I love getting to know my patients and their families and getting to care for them throughout their entire lives. I believe in working with my patients as a team. I strive to provide compassionate, individualized care. There isn't a one-size-fits-all solution to each person's health care concerns. I respect my patients' unique and individual backgrounds.
SECOND YEAR
Marina Bond, MD
I got my BS in biology from the University of Washington and completed my MD at the same institution. Before attending medical school, I was a medical receptionist and interpreter for patients who spoke Russian and Ukrainian. I also had jobs as a medical assistant, a medical scribe, a home health aide, and a pharmacy technician. Apart from medicine, I like salsa dancing, mushroom hunting, and reading Russian literature.
Jessie Chin, DO
I grew up in Seattle and studied at Vassar College in New York. I spent several years working for an aerospace company before pursuing a culinary career and becoming a chef in different restaurants. I then decided to switch to medicine and completed my post-baccalaureate premedical studies. I also worked as a medical scribe and trained other scribes. I completed medical school at Pacific NW University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine. In my free time, I like board games, baking, and tennis.
Aubrey Gower, MD
I grew up in Bothell, Washington, and attended the University of Washington, where I earned a double major in biology and psychology and a minor in classics. After college, I worked in pediatric research and then returned to UW for medical school. I have an interest in addiction medicine and health care for underserved LGBTQ populations. Apart from medicine, I enjoy paddle boarding, arcade games, coffee, comedy, and animals of any sort.
Sarah Krawczak, MD
I grew up in Woodinville, Washington. I went to Whitman College for my undergraduate degree, where I studied Biology. I completed my medical education at the Washington State University Elson Floyd College of Medicine in 2023. I was involved in STEM mentoring at a nearby high school during medical school, and I served as the co-president of the Pediatric Interest Group at my school. I also have a strong interest in adolescent care. I love running and hiking.
Epiphany Nick, MD
I have lived in various places but now reside in Federal Way, Washington. I obtained a BA in American Ethnic Studies and a BS in Biology from the University of Washington while conducting research that affected underserved and indigenous communities. I served as a Health Services Assistant at an elementary school and then as a Medical Assistant at Iora before entering medical school. I graduated from the University of Washington School of Medicine, where I was very involved in health equity and anti-racism work and influenced the medical school curriculum.
Erica Nkwocha, MD
I earned my medical degree from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine and did my undergraduate studies at Whitman College in Washington State. I also obtained an MS in Nutritional Sciences and a Certificate in Social Determinants of Health and Disparities, which was published during medical school. I enjoy writing short stories for myself and for others. Outside of medicine, I have perfected the art of home-cooked meals for my dogs.
FIRST YEAR
Carmen Abbe MD
I attended Scripps College in California, majoring in Human Biology. After graduation, I did research on male contraception and led clinical trials on this topic. I graduated from Washington State University Elson Floyd College of Medicine where I also earned a graduate certificate in leadership in medicine. I am passionate about access to reproductive healthcare and helped develop my school’s curriculum on this. Outside of medicine, I love roller derby and was a member of the Rat City Roller Derby in Seattle for two years.
Jiaqi Chen, MD
I am from the Midwest and will graduate from Saint Louis University School of Medicine this spring after also earning my undergraduate degree in biology from the same institution. I pursued multiple research opportunities in undergrad and med school, and also worked together with student-led groups and non-profit organizations to improve the health of the community. While coming from the Midwest, I am excited to transition to the Pacific Northwest where I rotated as a medical student and have family nearby.
Diana Dinh, DO
I have strong ties to the Pacific Northwest, having grown up in Everett, Washington. I earned a Biochemistry degree from the University of Washington and then went on to AT Still University of Health Sciences School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona. I completed a Sub-Internship with the Kaiser Permanente Washington Family Medicine Residency. I am committed to serving the underserved and have spent time helping nonprofit free health clinics, supporting Afghan refugee groups, and participating in environmental cleanups for the local community. These experiences granted me induction to the Sigma Sigma Phi Honors Society, whose members share a passion for community service.
Valerie Holt, DO
I grew up in Virginia to parents who are first generation immigrants (my dad is from Malaysia and my mom is from Taiwan). I attended the University of Virginia in Charlottesville and obtained a master’s in public health from George Washington University in DC. While attending AT Still School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona, I participated in many community activities. I believe strongly in the power that community has to transform health.
Zorie Jones, MD
I am a graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. I attended the University of Saint Joseph in Connecticut for my undergraduate studies, where I majored in biology. During my studies I participated in breast cancer research, looking at risk factors impacting mental health outcomes and health disparities among women of color. This led to publications and presentations. I was also active in the Student National Medical Association (SNMA), providing mentorship to underrepresented high school youth, and peer mentorship for medical students.
Michaela Murphy, MD
My hometown is Seattle. I earned an undergraduate degree in Philosophy at Vassar College in New York, then completed medical school pre-requisites at North Seattle College, followed by medical school at the University of Washington. I am passionate about working with communities historically marginalized in medicine. My volunteer work includes working for a student-run free clinic for people experiencing homelessness, providing health and harm reduction supplies to community members who use drugs, and mentoring students.
Graduates’ Perspectives
"Of the 14 Family Medicine residency programs I interviewed at around the country, Kaiser Permanente Washington Family Medicine Residency stood out as the best for me. The integrated care delivery system, the innovative curriculum, and the inspiring program director all perfectly aligned with my interests and values. Although my small family's move from Kansas City came with some severe sticker shock (Seattle is very expensive), I wouldn't have traded my training at Kaiser Permanente Washington Family Medicine Residency for anything. It was the collegiality with residents and faculty, the values-based resident scheduling (i.e., prioritizing patient-PCP continuity, long-term learning value, and burnout prevention), the high-functioning team, the program's commitment to combat systemic racism, and the robust support at a primary-care-centric organization that made this residency program truly amazing. The personal and professional growth I experienced was unparalleled. Now, as a faculty member at a Family Medicine Residency program in the Midwest, I'm constantly suggesting how we can improve with "Where I trained, we..." I look back with pure gratitude for the patients I met, the amazing residents with whom I worked side-by-side, and the world-class educators and administrators at Kaiser Permanente Washington Family Medicine Residency in Seattle."
— Brandon Hidaka, Class of 2020
"The best part about being a resident at Kaiser Permanente Washington Family Medicine Residency is being in an environment that is truly committed to improving healthcare. On a residency level, this means that the faculty members are very open to our ideas and are there to help us make things happen. We often check in with each other and ask ourselves, 'What can we do to better support our patients and each other?' As an organization, Kaiser Permanente Washington Family Medicine Residency has a strong commitment to primary care and has recently launched an initiative called 'Advancing Primary Care,' in which we use a multidisciplinary team approach to make sure more patients, especially the patients that have the hardest time coming in, are getting all their preventative health needs met. As a resident, it is inspiring to see an entire organization make this type of commitment to primary care. It is an environment that strongly supports Family Medicine and one where new physicians thrive."
— Phyllis Ying, Class of 2019
"Training at Kaiser Permanente Washington Family Medicine Residency provides an everyday reminder of why it is so wonderful to become a family doctor. The curriculum is unique and built to model the life of a family doctor in practice. The faculty members are examples of how to follow your interests while balancing full-spectrum care. The continuity clinics are team-based and functional so that time spent in the clinic is productive both for your patients and your learning. As a resident, you have ownership over your panel of patients and have the time in the clinic to establish individual relationships early in your training. You also have amazing technology at your fingertips to ensure your patients are meeting targets for their chronic conditions and are up-to-date on preventative health care. There are both virtual and in-person opportunities to engage with specialists, and they are welcoming of our questions and extremely helpful in partnering with PCPs to best manage challenging diagnoses. All of that, and it is just a fun place to be — great people and a most supportive training environment!"
— Annie Gayman, Class of 2017