People of MFMR

Our Patients

Our patients include retired ranchers, single parents, people experiencing homelessness, nursing home residents, and members of the Crow and Northern Cheyenne tribes and many others.

Where our patients are:

Billings: Main clinic, 2 hospitals, 2 school-based clinics, 2 Healthcare for the Homeless sites, long- and short-term nursing homes

Rural Clinics: Bridger, Joliet & Worden

Because the Montana Family Medicine Residency Program is tied to an urban Community Health Center, our residents gain experience in managing complex medical and psychosocial issues for patients who often have limited resources.

By The Numbers

Patients served in 2021
0
Children served
0
Patients below poverty level
0 %

Our Residents

Our residents are able to build close relationships with each other, faculty, and staff, which creates a dynamic team environment.

Class of 2027

Miranda Chen

M.D.

Hometown: State College, PA
Medical School: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
Undergraduate Degree: Penn State University

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Medical interests: Rural medicine, preventative care, advance care planning, music as medicine
Outside Interests: Playing violin, hiking, painting and crafting
Life before medicine: In addition to an interest in the life sciences passed down from my parents, I grew up doing a lot of art and music, including painting, dancing, playing piano and violin, and singing in a competitive choir. Upon finishing college, I took a leap away from home and did a year of AmeriCorps VISTA service in Missoula, MT, working on a telehealth initiative for a mental health organization.
Favorite music: J-pop, K-pop, and a good number of semiprofessional singer-songwriters.
Favorite movies: The Studio Ghibli classics.
Why I chose MFMR: After spending a year working in Montana before medical school, which felt all too short, I was eager for the chance to come back as a resident and join the rural medicine community here that had so impressed me before. My interview with MFMR fully assured me that this program would stretch my comfort zone, and push me to be more creative and confident in my medical practice.

Maddie du Pont

D.O.

Hometown: Wilmington, Delaware
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate Degree: University of Delaware

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Medical interests: Rural family medicine, wilderness medicine, OMT, lifestyle medicine
Outside Interests: Yoga, running, hiking, skiing, spending time with family and my two dogs, cooking, playing backgammon, needlepoint
Life before medicine: I grew up in Delaware with my family and moved to Northern California in high school and lived next to the Dipsea Trail.
Favorite music: All kinds! Caamp is a current favorite band.
Favorite movies: Reality tv shows on Netflix
Why I chose MFMR: Full-spectrum rural family medical training, looking forward to moving and starting a family in beautiful Billings, MT where we can do lots of outdoor activities.

Zach Harder

D.O.

Hometown: Shelley, ID
Medical School: Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate Degree: University of Idaho; Biochemistry, Minor in Chemistry

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Medical interests: Addiction medicine, sports medicine, preventative medicine
Outside Interests: Snowboarding, skateboarding, guitar and hanging with my goldendoodle Piper.
Life before medicine: I lived in Boise after undergrad to enjoy time with friends. I worked in a food laboratory and medical laboratory. I loved to float the Boise River when I could and go camping as much as possible.
Favorite music: Hip-hop, indie, classic rock
Favorite movies: Forest Gump, Sandlot, Interstellar, Pulp Fiction, GoodFellas
Why I chose MFMR: I loved Billings as soon as I rolled into town. I remember having a feeling that this is where I could picture the next three years of my life. The curriculum seemed everything and above what I was looking for. The faculty were so supportive, and to top it off there were helpful residents who didn’t hesitate to make me feel welcome and answer any questions that I may have had which solidified my decision.

Dave Kidman

D.O.

Hometown: Spanish Fork, Utah
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor’s degree in Emergency Services

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Medical interests: Wilderness medicine, rural medicine and sports medicine
Outside Interests: I love being outdoors, including hiking, fishing, hunting and snowboarding.
Life before medicine: 4 1/2 years in the Air Force as a TACP with 2 combat tours to Afghanistan, 7 years as a wildland firefighter and paramedic
Favorite music: Rock n’ roll
Favorite movies: Dumb and Dumber, Tommy Boy
Why I chose MFMR: Amazing place to be.

Stacy Maynard

D.O., PhD

Hometown: Great Falls, MT
Medical School: Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences
Undergraduate Degree: University of Wisconsin-Madison

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Medical interests: Primary care, pediatrics, women’s health
Outside Interests: Hiking, gardening, walking my dog
Life before medicine: I took a wandering route to medical school. I first had a career in chemistry before heading back to school to pursue my dream of becoming a physician.
Favorite music: I like variety over any specific genre.
Favorite movies: Star Wars
Why I chose MFMR: I wanted to stay in Montana and be part of a team committed to serving the community.

Dani Ryan

D.O.

Hometown: Dade City, Florida
Medical School: A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona
Undergraduate Degree: University of South Florida

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Medical interests: Preventative medicine, team-based decision making, obstetrics, newborn care and pediatric milestones
Outside Interests: Cooking, baking, crocheting, coffee (I have every fancy coffee maker you could ever want), road trips, and amusement parks.
Life before medicine:I worked as a server for six years at Longhorn Steakhouse. I initially started out hosting, but worked my way up and ended up training all of the new hires before my departure in 2020. I loved being in a fast-paced environment that was heavily team-focused. I had a second job during this time where I worked as an anatomy TA at USF MCOM. I have always loved anatomy and being able to apply it through medical school and now residency excites me! I am the middle child of three, and I am the first doctor in my family.
Favorite music: Folk, indie, alternative, pop and dance music, Irish music
Favorite movies: Lord of the Rings (all of them), Stardust, Kill Bill I, The Hateful Eight
Why I chose MFMR: I love the idea of being able to practice full-scope medicine in a rural area, and this program offers that unlike any that I have come across.

Sarah Ryersee

D.O.

Hometown: Carthage, MO
Medical School: Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate Degree: Missouri Southern State University

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Medical interests: Rural outpatient, women’s health/ OB
Outside Interests: Tennis, hiking, traveling, Netflix
Life before medicine: I spent a large majority of my time dedicated to gymnastics from competing to coaching.
Favorite music: Zach Bryan
Favorite movies: Practical Magic and Step Brothers
Why I chose MFMR: I chose MFMR because of the rural training, the location, and the atmosphere. Every resident and faculty member were very welcoming and I felt like I fit in very well with the program.

Eduardo Serrano

M.D.

Hometown: Michigan City, Indiana
Medical School: Baylor College of Medicine
Undergraduate Degree: Texas A&M

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Medical interests: Women’s health, mental health, chronic disease management
Outside Interests: Cooking, camping, weightlifting, swimming
Life before medicine: Exploring BBQ joints and anything college football
Favorite music: Midland, Queen, David Bowie, Johnny Cash
Favorite movies: Dune, The Revenant, House of the Dragon
Why I chose MFMR: After interviewing, I was impressed by the program’s conducive environment for broad scope training and alleviating health disparities. The people were down to earth. In conjunction with the stunning surrounding scenery and bountiful outdoor activities, it was difficult to pass up.

Lucas Teynor

D.O.

Hometown: Missoula, MT
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine (Parker, CO)
Undergraduate Degree: University of Montana
Graduate School: Colorado State University

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Medical interests: Sports medicine, lifestyle medicine, wilderness medicine, emergency medicine, ultrasound
Outside Interests: I enjoy outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, hunting (rifle and archery), wildlife/landscape photography, and golfing. I’m a fan of the Minnesota Vikings, Montana Griz, and Formula 1 racing. In my downtime, I unwind with eSports and video games. I love binge-watching shows, discovering new movies, and spending time with my dogs.
Life before medicine: I grew up in Missoula, doing all things outdoors and playing soccer and football. I attended the University of Montana and then worked as a CNA at the local hospital in Missoula. Following that, I went to Colorado to get a Master’s in Human Anatomy and Physiology and then worked in neonatal research, doing a lot of skiing during those years.
Favorite music: I’ll listen to anything, but mostly the following artists: Dierks Bentley, Parker McCollum, Thomas Rhett, Post Malone, and Kygo.
Favorite movies: Interstellar, Lord of The Rings Trilogy, Top Gun, Rogue One, Warrior, Harry Potter
Why I chose MFMR: Growing up in the “Last Best Place,” I knew I was to return to the state, whether before or after training. MFMR was welcoming and genuine and seemed like a good fit for the opportunities to enhance my proficiency in full-scope rural medicine, wilderness medicine, sports medicine and be prepared to practice medicine and serve the people of Montana.

Class of 2026

Bradley Cox

D.O.

Medical interests: Primary care, pediatrics/adolescents, geriatric care, behavioral health, nutrition, integrative medicine, sports medicine, osteopathic manipulation treatment.

Language: English

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Joined Staff: 2024

Schooling:

  • Touro University – California
  • Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee

Outside interests: Brazilian jiu jitsu, hiking, camping, skiing, video games

Colton Crowther

Colton Crowther

D.O.

Medical interests: Rural, wilderness and sports medicine.

Language: English

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Joined Staff: 2023

Schooling:

  • Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine.
  • Undergraduate: Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.

Outside interests: Denver Broncos, backpacking, archery, hunting, fishing, mountain biking, snowmobiling, skiing and pickleball.

William Hong

William Hong

M.D.

Medical interests: Full-spectrum family medicine and care of underserved communities, including obstetrics, pediatrics, geriatrics.

Language: English, Korean

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Joined Staff: 2023

Schooling:

  • University of Queensland School of Medicine, Australia
  • Undergraduate: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD.

Outside interests: Exploring the outdoors, spending time with friends and family, watching sports,  (especially San Francisco 49ers), reading, video games, board games and cooking Korean food.

Courtney Honken

Courtney Honken

M.D.

Medical interests: Rural practice, preventive care, prenatal care, lifestyle medicine, chronic pain management.

Language: English

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Joined Staff: 2023

Schooling:

  • University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle.
  • Undergraduate: Montana State University in Bozeman.
Jacalynn Kim

Jacalynn Kim

D.O.

Medical interests: Women’s health, pediatrics, osteopathic intervention, nutrition.

Language: English

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Joined Staff: 2023

Schooling:

  • Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern, Glendale, AZ.
  • Undergraduate: University of California-San Diego.

Outside interests: Running, hiking, traveling, eating good food, and spending time with friends and family.

Jonathan Kim

Jonathan Kim

D.O.

Medical interests: Rural medicine, geriatrics, addiction medicine.

Language: English

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Joined Staff: 2023

Schooling:

  • Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern, Glendale, AZ.
  • California State University of Long Beach.

Outside interests: Hiking, exploring, golfing and working out in the gym.

Matt Lopiano

Matt Lopiano

M.D.

Medical interests: Obstetrics, emergency medicine and diagnostic imaging.

Language: English

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Joined Staff: 2023

Schooling:

  • St. George’s University School of Medicine, Grenada;
  • Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, general surgery internship.
  • Undergraduate: University of Delaware, Newark, DE.

Outside interests: Skiing, hiking, fishing, shooting, cooking, dancing and spending time with the people I love.

Hersch Pokras

Hersch Pokras

M.D.

Medical interests: Rural family practice and wilderness medicine.

Language: English

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Joined Staff: 2023

Schooling:

  • Saba University School of Medicine, Dutch Caribbean.
  • Undergraduate: University of California, Santa Barbara.

Outside interests: Outdoor sports, including fly fishing and backpacking.

Sam Pollock

Sam Pollock

D.O.

Medical interests: Rural practice, pediatrics, geriatrics, addiction medicine, pain management and care of military veterans.

Language: English

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Joined Staff: 2023

Schooling:

  • Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine.
  • Undergraduate:  Brigham Young University-Provo, Utah.

Outside interests: Fishing, hiking, VR and 3D printing.

Landon Stevenson

Landon Stevenson

D.O.

Medical interests: Sports medicine, rural practice, including obstetrics and pediatrics.

Language: English

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Joined Staff: 2023

Schooling:

  • Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine.
  • Undergraduate: Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.

Outside interests: Family time, racing and riding dirt bikes, camping, skiing and snowmobiling.

 

Class of 2025

Zack Cady

D.O.

Hometown: Lame Deer, Mont.
Medical School: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, Las Cruces, N.M.
Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of cell biology and neuroscience, Montana State University, Bozeman, Mont.

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Medical interests: Rural full spectrum, geriatrics, emergency, orthopedics, pain medicine, wilderness medicine, veterans’ health and point-of-care ultrasound.
Outside interests: Snowboarding, camping, fishing, hunting, shooting, spending time with family and friends.
Life before medicine: Snowboarding, motocross, hunting, fishing, spending time exploring my reservation.
Favorite music: Rock, metal and country.
Favorite movies: Super Troopers, Old School, Trailer Park Boys (the movie), also snowboarding and motocross movies.
Why I chose MFMR: The opportunity to serve the area I grew up in has been a goal of mine since I decided to pursue medicine. MFMR also has a great wilderness medicine program, which pairs great with my love of the outdoors. I also was able to return to the best state in the USA.

Raul Chavarria

M.D.

Hometown: Miami, Florida.
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine, Barbados.
Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of science in physics, Florida International University, Miami.

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Medical interests: Preventative medicine, diabetic management, women’s health, including prenatal and pediatric care, wilderness medicine.
Outside Interests: Hiking with my wife, spending time with family and friends, team sports, running, cycling, strategy games, going to the movies and being outdoors as much as possible.
Life before medicine: First-generation college and medical graduate, arrived in the USA from Nicaragua at age 12. Studied mathematics and physics through high school and college. I worked in community service projects to assist communities in lower socioeconomic areas, environmental protection and increasing math and science awareness through outreach programs. I aim to serve my community so that others can share the rights, freedoms, and responsibilities that make our house a home. Nacido en Nicaragua y hablo Español.
Favorite music: From Barber of Seville to System of a Down, I have a broad music taste.
Favorite movies: Matrix, Lord of the Rings, recent Marvel films (too many to list), Big Fish, Star Wars, Star Trek, Berserker and other anime with interesting characters.
Why I chose MFMR: Welcoming program director and residents, commitment to quality improvement projects and to serving underserved communities, full spectrum training in beautiful Big Sky Country, mountains and forests with strong recommendation from alumni.

Eric Hjaltalin

D.O.

Hometown: Spokane, Wash.
Medical school: Rocky Vista University, Parker, Colo.
Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of arts, Carroll College, Helena.

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Medical interests: Sports medicine, pediatrics, comprehensive care.
Outside interests: Skiing, fishing, boating and working on my car.
Life before medical school: Worked as emergency department scribe at St. Peter Health in Helena and mental health tech at Shodair Children’s Hospital in Helena, medical mission to rural orphanage in Mexico.
Favorite music: I listen to just about everything depending on my mood.
Favorite movies: The Big Lebowski.
Why I chose MFMR: I fell in love with Montana during undergrad and returning for residency was an amazing opportunity. Additionally, all of the people involved with this program were so welcoming and encouraging I couldn’t resist.

Luke Leary

M.D.

Hometown: Oxford, Miss.
Medical school: University of Mississippi School of Medicine, Jackson.
Undergraduate degree: Bachelor’s degree in biology with chemistry minor, University of Mississippi “Ole Miss”.

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Medical interests: Rural full spectrum (hospital and clinic), sports medicine, wilderness medicine, hospital medicine.
Outside interests: Spending time with family, friends and my dog, bird hunting, fishing, hiking, exercise, watching sports and occasionally attempting them.
Life before medical school: I am the middle of seven kids in my family and was born and raised in Mississippi. I enjoyed playing several sports growing up and worked multiple odd jobs both before and during college, the last of which was working as a ranch hand outside of Big Sky the summer before starting medical school.
Favorite music: Country/folk when I’m driving or hanging out, rap/rock when I’m exercising, been on a My Morning Jacket kick recently.
Favorite movies: All things John Wayne, Gladiator, Shawshank Redemption, Braveheart.
Why I chose MFMR: I wanted a program that emphasized rural full-spectrum training. Once I interviewed. I was thoroughly impressed with the supportive environment among all the residents and faculty. Being in the great state of Montana was the cherry on top.

Megha Mudireddy

M.D.

Hometown: Grand Forks, N.D.
Medical school: University of North Dakota School of Medicine, Grand Forks.
Undergraduate: Bachelor of science in biology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks

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Medical interests: Women’s health, preventive medicine, pain management, sports medicine, skin diseases.
Outside interests: Spending time with family and friends, reading, tennis, traveling and cooking.
Life before medical school: I was getting a master’s degree in public health. When not in school, I spent a lot of time with family and did a lot of traveling.
Favorite music: A little bit of everything.
Favorite movies: Marvel comics movies, animated films, Harry Potter and Bollywood movies.
Why I chose MFMR: The program was very welcoming, and it felt like a natural fit for me when I interviewed. The staff and faculty were wonderful and encouraging. Billings is an ideal location, both for being near my family and serving a diverse patient population.

Grace Rose

D.O.

Hometown: Birdseye, Utah
Medical school: Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Yakima, Wash.
Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of science in human nutrition, Southern Utah University, Cedar City

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Medical interests: Obstetrics, pediatrics, addiction medicine, rural health, and diabetes management.
Outside interests: Camping, hiking, visiting ghost towns, hanging out with my family, spending time playing card and board games, playing with my dog, kayaking, and doing home renovations.
Life before medical school: I worked as a nutritionist and managed a trucking company.
Favorite music: Ben Rector, pop songs turned classical, and anything I can dance to.
Favorite movies: I do not watch many movies but I love true crime TV shows and podcasts.
Why I chose MFMR: This program had everything I was looking for and I had seen how the residency supports its residents. I was impressed with the quality of training that is provided. Plus, Montana is gorgeous and has some of the nicest people I have ever met.

Joel M. Ross

D.O.

Hometown: Farmington, Utah.
Medical school: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, Las Cruces, N.M.
Undergraduate degree: Weber State University, Ogden, Utah, B.A. with Spanish major, emphasis in international business and chemistry minor.

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Medical interests: Family medicine, wilderness medicine, integrative medicine, osteopathic medicine, functional medicine.
Outside interests: Spending time with my wife and children. I enjoy most any outdoor activity, especially soccer, mountain biking, climbing, water and snow sports. I also like watching movies, martial arts and reading.
Life before medical school: Before and throughout medical school I was heavily involved with volunteer work, helping children domestically and internationally. I pursued a career in the family business and a degree in international business. I worked as a personal trainer for several years, and was certified as an EMT, CNA, and phlebotomist. I lived in Chile for three years where I met my wife and we were married. We moved back to the United States and have since added two beautiful children to our family.
Favorite music: Little bit of everything – country, rock, etc.
Favorite movies: Good Will Hunting, Patch Adams, Chasing Mavericks, Vikings (TV shows) and Marvel comics movies.
Why I chose MFMR: While on rotation I fell in love with the area and program for several reasons, including the broad spectrum of opportunity for training, the Wilderness Medicine Track, the amazing faculty and staff, current residents who all seem to truly enjoy it. I feel that my family will love to live here and have access to so many different outdoor activities and life experiences in this beautiful area.

Shae Saunders

M.D.

Hometown: Bozeman, Mont.
Medical school: American University of Antigua College of Medicine.
Undergraduate degree: Metropolitan State University of Denver/University of Colorado Denver.

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Medical interests: Public health and social determinants of health and wellness, restorative justice in healthcare and health equity, women’s health and OB-GYN.
Outside interests: Dogs, cooking, skincare, travel and home improvement.
Life before medical school: Former makeup artist and licensed aesthetician.
Favorite music: David Bowie, Purple Disco Machine and Jimi Hendrix.
Favorite movies: Legends of the Fall, Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, Sabrina, Pride and Prejudice.
Why I chose MFMR: Not only does MFMR provide the perfect opportunity for me to come back home and practice medicine, but the people who make up the program and the patients MFMR serves made it the only residency choice in my mind. The program provides excellent patient-centered care in an incredible clinic and will prepare me to practice among Montana’s diverse patient population, as well as its rural communities and cities. Joining MFMR truly felt like I was coming home, and I couldn’t be happier to be a part of such an amazing community.

David Supinski

M.D.

Hometown: Baxter, Minn.
Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis Minn.
Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of arts in biology from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn.

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Medical interests: Rural family medicine, preventative medicine, emergency medicine, sports and exercise medicine, maternity and newborn care.
Outside interests: Running, biking, swimming, cross country skiing, pickle ball, tennis, basketball, spike ball, corn hole, golf, hiking, backpacking, camping, hunting, wood working, painting, music, cooking and reading.
Life before medical school: I transitioned straight into medical school after my undergraduate education. In college I was involved in track, homecoming committee, working as a tutor and library attendant, ping-pong club, and volunteering outside of school.
Favorite music: All genres. I am first and foremost a Classic Rock enthusiast.
Favorite movies: Chef, Miracle, Star Wars, and Marvel comics movies.
Why I chose MFMR: I was looking for a program with a dedication to rural family medicine and MFMR certainly prepares its residents for a wide range of future practice settings. I see great value in training at a Community Health Center. I look forward to being challenged by high-needs patients with limited resources. Billings is uniquely situated to provide excellent resident training as a central medical hub and I plan to take advantage of every learning opportunity that this affords. Finally, Billings is a great city with ample access to the outdoors. My wife and I are excited to join this community and become the most successful, well-rounded people that we can be.

Our Faculty

Montana Family Medicine Residency faculty members are affiliated with the top-ranked University of Washington School of Medicine.

Garth Brand

M.D. – Director

Schooling: M.D., Ross University School of Medicine, Portsmouth, Dominica
B.A. in Biochemistry Biophysics and Microbiology, Whitman College, Walla Walla, Wash.
Residency: Montana Family Medicine Residency, graduated in 2015

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Board certification: American Board of Family Medicine diplomate
Joined Faculty: 2015
Medical interests: Full spectrum, hospital and addiction medicine as well as clinical reasoning.
Family: Married to Katie, we have one son and one daughter.
Outside interests: Barbecue and cooking, hiking, biking, skiing, travel and podcasts.
The most satisfying part of teaching: Working with underserved patients in a Community Health Center with a focus on teaching many levels of students and residents. Running the simulation program. Working with residents to develop skills to work in rural and underserved areas.

James Denisar-Green

MD, PhD – Associate Director

Schooling: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, MD and Ph.D. Washington State University, Pullman, Wash., bachelor’s degree in genetics and biodiversity, master’s degree in biotechnology.
Medical residency: University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Medicine, Las Vegas and Winnemucca, Nev.

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Board certification: American Board of Family Medicine.
Joined staff: 2021.
Medical interests: Rural medicine, preventative medicine, maternity and obstetrical care, healthcare policy, healthcare technology.
Family: Husband, Brent Denisar-Green, and dog, Teddy.
Outside interests: Travel, reading suspense and fiction, listening to NPR, documentary consumption and computer gaming.
Most satisfying part of teaching: Watching a resident’s knowledge, skills and confidence grow over months and years.

Mike Geurin

M.D., FAAFP – DIO

Schooling: M.D., University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Tulsa
A.A. in General Science, Magna Cum Laude, Bartlesville Wesleyan College, Bartlesville, Oklahoma
M.A. in English, Creative Writing Emphasis, University of Oklahoma, Norman
B.A. in English and French, Summa Cum Laude, With Honors, Oklahoma Baptist University, Shawnee
Residency: Montana Family Medicine Residency

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Board certification: American Board of Family Medicine
Joined Faculty: 2007.
Medical interests: Graduate medical education, information mastery, diabetes care, maternity care.
Family: My husband, Rory, is a yoga teacher and massage therapist. We have two French bulldogs named Swami and Chico. My parents, who live in Billings, are avid RVers.
Outside interests: Nature and photographing nature enrich me immensely. Rory and I are never happier than when we are on a mountain trail photographing wildlife and scenery. Music has been an important part of my life, and I sing first tenor with the Billings Symphony Orchestra. Like most family physicians, I appreciate stories of all kinds: literature, cinema, and my patients’ stories.
The most satisfying part of teaching: My greatest satisfaction is working with a group of people who dream big and accomplish excellence.

Chris Baumert

M.D. – Medical Director

Schooling: M.D., Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pa
B.S., Civil & Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.
Residency: Montana Family Medicine Residency, Billings, Mont.

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Board certification: American Board of Family Medicine
Joined Faculty: 2014
Medical interests: Health policy and health system improvement, prenatal care and ultrasound, women’s health, dermatology, sports medicine and musculoskeletal care.
Family: My family includes my wife, Kristin, a young son, a young daughter, and our rescue dog, Kona. I grew up in Allentown, Pa., where my mother is a family doctor.
Outside interests: Hiking, biking, running, skiing, fly-fishing, yoga, and spending time with friends and family.
The most satisfying part of teaching: The people, the opportunity to care for underserved patients, and the ability to work for a forward-thinking organization with a commitment to quality healthcare for the entire community.

Megan Littlefield

M.D. – Chief Medical Officer

Schooling: M.D., University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Md.
Undergraduate degree, Connecticut College, New London, Conn.
Residency: University of Chicago, Ill.

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Board certification: American Board Internal Medicine; American Board of Pediatrics
Joined Faculty: 2011
Medical interests: Pediatrics, access to care, obesity and diabetes
Outside interests: Hiking, downhill skiing and spending time with family

Paolo Gerbasi

M.D.

Schooling: M.D.: University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle WA.
Undergraduate degree: Montana State University, Bozeman MT.
Residency: Montana Family Medicine Residency, Billings MT.

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Board certification: American Board of Family Medicine
Year joined faculty: 2014, full time 2021
Medical interests: Pediatrics and obstetrics; sports medicine; preventive medicine.
Outside interests: Spending time with my wife of 32 years, Nancy, and visiting our kids, all five of them, and grandkids, two of them, in five different states. Train year round to compete in triathlons; fly fish year-round; backpacking trips and camping; brewing beer at home and commercially.

Erin Hixson

M.D. – Assistant Medical Director of Informatics

Schooling: M.D., University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA.
B.S. in Physiology, Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA
Residency: Montana Family Medicine Residency, Billings, MT

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Board certification: American Board of Family Medicine
Joined Faculty: 2021
Medical interests: Primary Care, Women’s Health, Preventative Medicine, Medical Informatics
Family: I am married to my high school sweetheart, Andy, and we have 3 pandemic fur babies.
Outside interests: Spending time with family and friends exploring new places and cultures through travel, road trips, hiking, and dining.
The most satisfying part of teaching: Helping learners navigate the challenging path to becoming a board-certified physician, while learning alongside them.

Isaac Fonken

M.D.

Schooling: Colorado University School of Medicine, Aurora, Colo. Undergraduate degree: Whitworth University, Spokane, Wash., bachelor of health science.
Medical residency: Family Medicine Center, Fort Collins, Colo.

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Board certification: American Board of Family Medicine pending.
Joined staff: 2021
Medical interests: Maternal and child health, addiction treatment, hepatitis C treatment and hospital medicine.
Family: Happily married. Our toddler is energetic and likes books. My cocker spaniel loves to hike, sleep and eat.
Outside interests: Climbing, good food (making it and eating it), summer and winter sports, raising backyard chickens.
Most satisfying part of teaching: Residency is an incredibly dynamic time, whether it’s the epiphany learners get when they make connections about something for the first time or when they ask you for a letter of recommendation as they start their job search as newly minted physicians. It’s all great. I especially like teaching procedures.

Julie Kelso

Julie Kelso

M.D.

Schooling: Schooling: M.D., University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
Public psychiatry fellow, Columbia University, New York, NY
Residencies: University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO, Psychiatry; Columbia University, New York, NY, public psychiatry fellowship

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B.S., biology and Spanish, Rocky Mountain College, Billings, MT
Board certification: American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, 2006.
Joined staff: 2021
Medical interests: Collaborative care, de-prescribing, mood disorders
Outside interests: Skiing, hiking, biking, reading and travel.

Staci Lee

M.D.

Schooling: M.D., Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA.
Undergraduate: Iowa State University, Ames, IA.
Graduate: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, master of education in Health Professions.

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Residency: Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Internal Medicine Residency, Infectious Diseases Fellowship
Medical interests: Care of people living with HIV and/or identifying as LGBTQ+, prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, developing and providing interprofessional medical education for patients, medical providers and the public
Outside interests: Seeking out people, books, music, shows, and outdoor activities that allow me to see or experience life from a different perspective.

Dorothy Sizemore

D.O.

Schooling: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Parker CO. B.S. in Cell Biology & Neuroscience 2009, M.S. in Health Science 2010 Montana State University Bozeman MT.
Residency: Montana Family Medicine Residency, Billings MT.

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Board certification: American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians
Joined staff: 2023
Medical interests: Disease prevention, provider wellness, accessible and inclusive care for all
Outside interests: Travel, hiking, reading, baking
Family: Partner and our Labrador retriever, Otis
Most satisfying part of teaching: Helping medical learners find their passion in medicine

Amy Solomon

Amy Solomon

M.D.

Schooling: M.D St. Louis University School of Medicine, Mo.
Undergraduate: B.A. Psychology from University of California , La Jolla
Residency: UCLA Family Practice Residency/Santa Monica

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Board Certification: American Board of Family Medicine, American Board of Addiction Medicine
Joined faculty: 2018
Medical interests: Belief in care of the whole person, with fellowship training in Integrative Medicine as well as board certification in Addiction Medicine. I care for people with complex medical stories including fatigue, chronic pain, substance use disorders and psychiatric co-morbidities and work as a team with the patient to feel empowered and have a more functional and better quality life.
Family: Married for more than two decades to Richie Solomon. Two college-age children studying in Colorado, plus two cats, two dogs, lots of friends and extended family.
Outside interests: Spending time with family, going to live music and symphony performances, yoga, especially kundalini yoga, and trying new things like fishing and ukulele.
The most satisfying part of teaching: Watching students learn something new and then apply that knowledge.

Laura Stump

M.D.

Schooling: M.D University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
Undergraduate: B.A. Mechanical Engineering Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
Residency: Montana Family Medicine Residency, Billings, MT

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Board Certification: American Board of Family Medicine
Joined faculty: 2023
Medical interests: Preventative care and procedural care
Family: Friends and my dog, Stevie
Outside interests: Hiking, skiing, cooking and travel
The most satisfying part of teaching: Working together to learn and grow.

W. John Wessell

D. Min., LCPC, LMFT, CRC

Schooling: D. Min Counseling and M. Min. Christian/Pastoral Counseling, Andersonville Theological Seminary, Camilla, Ga. Advanced Graduate Study, Counselor Education and Educational Psychology Mississippi State University, Starkville, Miss.; M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling, Montana State University-Billings.
Undergraduate degree: B.S. in Psychology/Sociology, Montana State University Billings

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Board certification: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
Joined Faculty: 2014
Professional interests: Theophostic/Nouthetic Counseling, homelessness, life stories and transitions.
Family: I’m married to Anna, have three children, and two dogs
Outside interests: Road trips, exercise, hiking, sports, reading, writing, music, classic stuff
The most satisfying part of teaching at MFMR: Energetic residents, gifted staff, and opportunities to grow professionally.

Our Staff

The Montana Family Medicine Residency is supported by a highly competent staff. Clinicians, health professionals, administrators and support staff all work together to not only ensure the best residency experience possible but also the highest quality of care for patients.

Our Alumni

After finishing their MFMR residency, the majority of our alumni choose to stay in Montana. This creates a valuable network of providers across Big Sky Country.

Class of 2024

Brooke Fettig, M.D.

Hometown: New Town, N.D.
College: University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, bachelor of science.
Medical School: University of North Dakota School of Medicine, Grand Forks.

Marina Hansen, M.D.

Hometown: Glasgow, Mont.
College: Cell biology and neuroscience, Montana State University, Bozeman.
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle.

Alex Hetrick, D.O.

Hometown: Somerville, Ala.
College: University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa, bachelor of science in biology, bachelor of art in history with Japanese minor. Eastern Mennonite University, Harrisonburg, Va., master’s degree in biomedicine.
Medical school: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ivins, Utah.

Jameson Laub, D.O.

Hometown: Meadville, Pa.
College: College of Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, bachelor’s in biology.
Medical school: A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (year 2-4 clinical rotations in Seattle area).

Travis Loy, M.D.

Hometown: Southwest Ranches, Fla.
College: Bachelor’s in biology, Florida Atlantic University
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine, Barbados

Daniel Pak, M.D.

Hometown: Mill Creek, Wash.
College: Bachelor of arts, Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, Pa.
Medical school: University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle.

Adam Putnam, D.O.

Hometown: Saint Louis, Mo.
College: Bachelor’s in biochemistry and molecular biology, Rhodes College, Memphis, Tenn.
Medical School: A. T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kirksville, Mo.

Jalyn Walker, M.D.

Hometown: Plevna, Mont.
College: Rocky Mountain College, Billings.
Medical school: University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle.

Class of 2023

Yuri Brito, M.D.

Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
College: Baruch College/City University of New York, BBA. Columbia University, School of General Studies, New York, N.Y., post-baccalaureate pre-medical.
Medical School: Frank Netter School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, North Haven, Conn.

Douglas R. Burns, D.O.

Hometown: Warrenville, Ill.
College: Montana State University, Bozeman
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harlem N.Y.

Ruth Chadwick, M.D. MPH

Hometown: Castle Rock, Colo.
College: Gordon College, Wenham, Mass., Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Md.  (MPH)
Medical School: The Medical School of International Health, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheva, Israel

Amanda Fields, D.O.

Hometown: Portland, Ore., is my birthplace, but Ellensburg, Wash., feels like home.
College: Central Washington University, Ellensburg, Wash.
Medical School: Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, Yakima, Wash.

Christian Kilpatrick, D.O.

Hometown: Sheridan, Wyo.
College: University of Wyoming, Laramie
Medical School: Midwestern University – Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Glendale

John Konow, M.D.

Hometown: Chicago
College: Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
Medical School: University of Queensland – Ochsner Clinical School, Brisbane, Australia, & New Orleans, La.

Cassie Lowry Edmark, D.O.

Hometown: Seattle, Wash.
College: Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind.
Medical School: Pacific Northwest University, Yakima, Wash.

Sam Matz, M.D.

Hometown: Portland, Ore.
College: Excelsior College, N.Y.; Portland State University, Ore.
Medical School: Oregon Health & Science University, Portland

Trent Taylor, M.D.

Hometown: St. George, Utah
College: Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee

Class of 2022

Bjorn Anderson, D.O.

Hometown: Bozeman, Mont.
College: The Master’s College, Santa Clarita, Calif.
Medical School: Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, Yakima, Wash.

Ian Coe, M.D.

Hometown: Corvallis, Oregon
College: University of Portland, Oreg.
Medical School: Oregon Health and Science University-Portland, Ore.

Kellee Glaus, M.D.

Hometown: Whitehall, Mont.
College: University of Montana, Missoula
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine, MT WWAMI, Bozeman, Mont.

S. Christopher Hiett, M.D.

Hometown: Zionsville, Indiana
College: IUPUI, Indianapolis, Indiana
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana

Annie Morrison, M.D.

Hometown: Clinton & Philipsburg, Mont. and Pullman, Wash.
College: Washington State University, Pullman
Medical School: Saint Louis University, Mo.

Tom North, D.O.

Hometown: Klamath Falls, Ore.
College: Utah Valley University, Orem
Medical School: Touro University Nevada, Henderson

Paul Weeden, D.O.

College: Brigham Young University – Idaho, Rexburg
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dothan, Ala.
Currently Practicing: St. Vincent Healthcare, Billings, Mont.

Alyssa Lautenschlager, M.D.

Hometown: Menominee, MI Schooling: M.D.,  Central Michigan University College of Medicine. Undergraduate Degree, University of Rochester. Family Medicine Residency: University of Montana: Family Medicine Residency of Western Montana (in Missoula) Currently Practicing: IHS, Crow Agency, MT

Luke Sugden, D.O.

Schooling: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Colorado. Undergraduate: Boise State University. Currently Practicing: St. Luke’s Sports Medicine, Twin Falls, ID

Class of 2021

Stephen Asay, M.D.

Hometown: Billings, Mont.
College: Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.
Medical school: University of Colorado, School of Medicine.

Shaleen Doctor, M.D.

Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
College: University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas; Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colo.
Medical school: Ross University, School of Medicine, Dominica.

David Goodwin, M.D.

Hometown: Stephenville, Texas.
College: Texas A&M University College Station, Texas; University of Oklahoma, Norman, Okla.
Medical school: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

Erin Hixson, M.D.

Hometown: Seattle, Wash.
College: Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, Wash.
Medical school: University of Washington, School of Medicine.

Andrew Lester, D.O.

Hometown: Great Falls, Mont.
College: University of Montana, Missoula, Mont.
Medical school: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University.

Brook Murphy, M.D.

Hometown: Glendive, Mont.
College: Montana State University, Bozeman, Mont.
Medical school: University of Washington, School of Medicine.

Jason Sarisky, D.O.

Hometown: Livingston, Mont.
College: Montana State University, Bozeman, Mont.
Medical school: Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Kirsten Thompson, D.O.

Hometown: Red Bluff, Calif.
College: University of California, Santa Cruz.
Medical school: A.T. Still University–Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

Class of 2020

Stephen Bertucci, M.D.

Hometown: Chalmette, La.
College: University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS
Medical School: Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, La.

Danika Clark, D.O.

Hometown: Havre, Mont.
College: Concordia College, Moorhead, MN
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, Fla.

Niki Davis, M.D.

Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
College: University of Utah, Salt Lake City
Medical School: University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City

Cody Englert, D.O.

Hometown: Billings, Mont.
College: Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA
Medical School: Rocky Vista College of Osteopathic Medicine, Parker, Colo.

Britain Parrish, M.D.

Hometown:
Hometown: Ephraim, Utah
College: Utah State University, Logan
Medical School: Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA

Joe Pummer, MBBS

Hometown: Firestone, Colo.
College: University of Northern Colorado, Greeley
Medical School: University of Queensland School of Medicine, Brisbane, Australia

Wade See, M.D.

Hometown: Missoula, Mont.
College: Texas A&M University, College Station
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle

Sam Ward, D.O.

Hometown: Bay Village, Ohio
College: Earlham College, Richmond, Ind.
Medical School: Ohio University, Athens, Ohio

Justin Watkins, D.O.

Hometown: Brigham City, Utah
College: Utah State University, Logan
Medical School: Pacific Northwest University, Yakima, Wash.

Class of 2019

Heather Calvert, M.D.

Hometown: Vine Grove, Ky.
College: US Naval Academy, Annapolis Md.
Medical School: University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville Ky.

James Hickey, D.O.

Hometown: Savage, Minn.
College: University of Minnesota Duluth
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Parker, Colo.

Daniela Mestre, M.D.

Hometown: Irvine, Calif.
Medical School: Universidad de la Republica Facultad de Medicina, Montevideo, Uruguay

Thomas O’Brien, M.D.

Hometown: Villanova, PA
College: University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Va.
Medical School: Medical School for International Health, Beersheva, Israel

Jedidiah Oldham, D.O.

Hometown: Payson, Utah
College: Utah Valley University, Orem
Medical School: A.T. Still University of Health Sciences, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kirksville, MO

Amy Roberts, M.D.

Hometown: Aiea, Hawaii, and Rochester, MN
College: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis

Jarryd Rossignol, D.O.

Hometown: New Sweden, Maine
College: University of New England, Biddeford, ME
Medical School: University of New England COM

Rebecca Slingwine, D.O.

Hometowns: Duvall, Wash., and Jacksonville, Fla.
College: University of Washington, Seattle
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine – Bradenton, Bradenton, Fla.

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