Ginette Bordcoch De Martino, MD
Where are you from?
Córdoba, Argentina
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
My family values have shaped my belief that being an exceptional physician requires more than clinical expertise alone. While the ability to apply scientific knowledge and strong clinical judgment are fundamental, my grandfather, a physician himself, taught me that truly outstanding doctors are those who take the time to understand their patients as individuals. Listening attentively, building trust, and communicating with empathy are essential to providing care that leads to the best possible outcomes. This philosophy is what attracted me most to the Cahaba + UAB Family Medicine Residency Program. From my very first interactions with the program, I sensed a culture that values not only excellence in medical education but also compassion, wellness, and meaningful human connection. I was impressed by the genuine commitment of the faculty and residents to supporting one another while delivering patient-centered care. What stands out most to me about Cahaba-UAB is its holistic approach to both patient care and physician training. The program’s emphasis on treating patients as whole individuals aligns closely with my own values, and its dedication to resident wellness creates an environment where physicians can thrive both personally and professionally. I am excited by the opportunity to grow in a setting that combines scientific rigor, compassionate care, and a strong culture of community wellness. Surrounded by mentors and peers who share these principles, I am confident that Cahaba + UAB is the ideal place for me to develop into the family physician I aspire to become.
Undergrad: N/A
Med school: Universidad Católica de Córdoba
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Spending time with family and friends, cooking with my family.
What is your favorite food to cook?
Italian pasta or any Argentinian treats
What is a destination you’d like to visit or live?
I would like to visit many places, but two of them are Türkiye and Ireland.
What drives you?
I am driven by a desire to live with integrity, guided by truth, compassion, and empathy. Navigating challenges with determination and resilience and committed to the people, values, and relationships that matter most. These principles shape how I grow, connect with others, and contribute to the world around me.
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
To further specialize through a Sports Medicine fellowship, Dermatology.
Phillip Hensley, MD
Where are you from?
I am from Verbena, Alabama, a small rural community in Chilton County. Growing up in a rural area gave me a firsthand look at the healthcare challenges people in our state face, and that perspective is a huge part of why I decided to pursue family medicine.
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
I chose Cahaba + UAB because the program’s approach to training just makes sense to me. The longitudinal integrated curriculum where you work in outpatient clinics and rotate through different specialties while interleaving your inpatient time is so much closer to how family medicine actually works in the real world. It is a more efficient way to learn than the traditional block-style schedule. On top of that, having the full weight of the UAB health system behind us means we have access to incredible resources and expertise, but we still get that tight-knit supportive environment where the faculty and staff truly care about our growth. At the end of the day, Cahaba’s mission to serve the people of Alabama aligns perfectly with why I went into medicine in the first place. I felt at home here from the start, and I knew this was where I wanted to train.
Undergrad: Jacksonville State University
Med school: UAB Heersink School of Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
When I am not in the clinic I am usually hanging out with my three dogs, Huck, Roo, and Mae, though my house is almost always covered in fur. If I am not doing that I am probably grabbing a drip coffee and a pastry at one of the local spots here in Birmingham. I am a big Pittsburgh Steelers fan and I take my fantasy football league pretty seriously. To stay active I really enjoy running, playing some pickleball, or getting out on the golf course.
What is your favorite food to cook?
I am a big fan of grilling. There is something about the process that is a great way to decompress. I would say my go-to is a good filet mignon, but a solid reliable penne pasta is always a winner too if I am forced to cook indoors.
What is a destination you’d like to visit or live?
I am definitely still looking to do more traveling, but Switzerland is at the top of my list. I have always wanted to see those mountain landscapes in person as it feels like one of those places that you really have to see for yourself to appreciate.
What drives you?
I have always been motivated by the idea of trying to be the change I want to see in the world. It keeps me focused on finding ways to improve, whether that is in my clinical practice or just my day-to-day life. It also keeps me grounded and reminds me to show some grace to myself and others along the way.
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
After I finish residency, my plan is to head to Pell City, Alabama, to go into private practice and serve that community.
Clara McMillan, DO
Where are you from?
Columbia, TN
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
When I interviewed at Cahaba Highlands, I felt that the program’s values aligned with my own. I was inspired by Dr. Salser’s genuine passion for serving underserved populations and his commitment to making a meaningful impact in the community. His enthusiasm for the program and its mission was so inspiring, and it was clear that the residents in the program seemed to possess that same desire to serve the community. I was also attracted to the opportunity to train in a program that combines the strengths of an academic medical center with the mission of community-based and rural medicine. The ability to learn from a diverse patient population, utilize the resources of UAB, and develop the skills needed to care for underserved communities was exactly what I was looking for in a residency program. Most importantly, I felt that Cahaba was a place where I would be challenged, supported, and encouraged to become the kind of physician I aspire to be.
Undergrad: Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, TN
Med school: William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I am super into fitness, the outdoors, and my cat, so most of my free time is spent outside running or hanging out with my cat Tilly
What is your favorite food to cook?
Spaghetti
What is a destination you’d like to visit or live?
Prague!
What drives you?
My family
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
I plan to apply to an FM/OB fellowship.
Esereoghene Mowoe, MD
Where are you from?
Frederick, Maryland and Nigeria
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
A lot drew me to the UAB + Cahaba Highlands residency. As a believer in Christ, it is important to me that my faith informs the way I care for patients. I was looking for a program where serving others was more than a mission statement—it was woven into the culture of the residency. I have always been passionate about women’s health, particularly caring for underserved communities, and I wanted a program that shared that commitment. Residency is both challenging and transformative, so finding a supportive environment was equally important to me. Cahaba + UAB stood out because of its Christ-centered mission, comprehensive approach to patient care, strong sense of community, family-oriented culture, and dedication to serving medically underserved populations. I have also long been interested in global health, and I was excited to learn that the residency intentionally incorporates global health outreach into the training experience. During my interview, everyone was incredibly welcoming, and it genuinely felt like a place where I could grow both personally and professionally. I wanted to train in an environment that would challenge me clinically while surrounding me with mentors and colleagues who felt like a second family. Looking back, I am grateful to have found a program whose values align so closely with my own.
Undergrad: University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Graduate: University of California, Davis
Med school: Ross University School of Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
If I’m not doing medicine, you’ll probably find me at the nearest airport planning my next adventure or exploring a new part of the world. I also enjoy FaceTiming my nephews and family, scrolling through social media, ice skating, and trying different cuisines.
What is your favorite food to cook?
I LOVE FOOD. My favorite changes depending on the day and my mood. Favorite go to meal to EAT is seafood boil, margarita pizza, pasta, and indomie and Nigerian egg sauce. Once in a blue moon if I decide to chef it up, I like making Jollof rice with stewed assorted proteins, or banga soup with roasted turkey.
What is a destination you’d like to visit or live?
Brazil, UAE, Portugal and Spain. I’d like to live in the Netherlands.
What drives you?
My faith in Christ is the foundation of everything I do. I’m driven by the sacrifices my parents made to create opportunities for our family and by a desire to honor those sacrifices through hard work and service. I’m also inspired by my incredible support system—my parents, siblings, nephews, DBS, and Prof. SSG—whose love, encouragement, and belief in me continue to shape the physician and person I strive to be every day.
Andrea Chilo, MD
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Santa Cruz – Bolivia.
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
It was in Kentucky at the GMHC where I first encountered the Cahaba Family Medicine team. From that initial meeting to my last interaction during the event, I felt a deep conviction in my heart—this was where I wanted to pursue my residency. The opportunity to grow both professionally and spiritually, in an environment that fosters a relationship with God and supports mission trips, is truly a blessing. Another reason I was drawn to the Cahaba family is the authenticity and exceptional clinical competence its residents demonstrate. Through my interactions during the conference and beyond, I witnessed genuine compassion, passion for service, and strong clinical skills. It is truly a dream come true to embark on this journey with the Cahaba Highlands track.
Undergrad: Universidad Autonoma Gabriel Rene Moreno
Medical School: Universidad Autonoma Gabriel Rene Moreno
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Outside of medicine, I enjoy going to church, attending small groups, practicing yoga and spending time with my cats. Back home in Bolivia, I was actively involved in rescuing and fostering stray dogs and cats. Although I’ve faced some limitations since moving to the U.S., I’ve continued to support animal welfare by assisting with rescues and volunteering at local shelters.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
A destination on my bucket list is Kenya, where I hope to go on a safari and experience its incredible wildlife and landscapes.
What drives you?
My faith and my parents are the driving forces in my life. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their unwavering support and sacrifices. They motivate me every single day, and I am deeply grateful to God that I still have both of them in my life.
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
As for my plans after residency, I currently intend to pursue a fellowship in Geriatrics.
Hannah Goymer, MD
Where are you from?
Birmingham
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
As a Birmingham native, I was drawn to the Cahaba + UAB Family Medicine Residency Program for its unique combination of academic training, community engagement, and strong support network. My career goal is to reduce health disparities by improving access to quality care, and I knew this program would equip me to do so through its robust opportunities in community service, research, and teaching. What stood out most were the people—every individual I met during interviews shared a deep commitment to serving Alabama and fostering the personal and professional growth of residents. With its comprehensive training and collaborative environment, I knew this was a place where I could thrive.
Undergrad: The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Medical School: UAB Heersink School of Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Outside of medicine, I am usually spending time with my friends and family (including my dog). I enjoy exploring new places, gardening, hiking, cooking, and playing games of all kinds.
What is your favorite food to cook?
I love trying new recipes, but a classic favorite is macaroni & cheese
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Everywhere - but Japan, Italy, and Greece are currently at the top of my list
What drives you?
My family and my personal lived experiences have instilled in me a passion for serving the community.
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
I am interested in OB fellowship
Charlton Nguyen, DO
Where are you from?
Arlington, Texas
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
I chose Cahaba UAB Family Medicine Residency because it truly felt like a hidden gem. From the moment I learned about the program, I was drawn to its commitment to serving both urban and underserved populations, as well as its unique blend of academic partnership with UAB and community engagement. The opportunity to participate in international mission trips, train in a top-tier academic environment with renowned specialists, and gain early exposure to sports medicine through work with high school, college, and even minor league professional teams was especially appealing. What stood out most, though, was the culture—everyone here is incredibly welcoming and supportive, and the atmosphere reflects the best of Southern hospitality. It felt like the perfect place to grow not just as a physician, but as a person committed to compassionate, community-centered care. I felt this was the right environment to build a strong foundation and be part of shaping something truly special.
Undergrad: University of Texas at Arlington
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Auburn Campus
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Outside of medicine, I enjoy living life to the fullest. I love traveling, hiking, cooking, going to concerts and festivals, and exploring new culinary experiences. Spending time with family and friends is very important to me, and I make a point to stay connected with the people I care about. These moments help keep me grounded and energized.
What is your favorite food to cook?
Texas barbecue and anything on the grill. There’s something special about slow-cooked meats and grilling over an open fire that brings me a lot of joy.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I’ve always wanted to visit New Zealand and explore Hobbiton, which is on the bucket list. But for someone who loves food, anywhere in the world where I can experience amazing diversity of foods and flavorful dishes.
What drives you?
I’ve always carried an underdog mentality especially from my upbringing of growing up playing sports and working hard to find success. That internal drive and mindset has shaped my work ethic and perseverance to other avenues of life. Growing up as a first-generation Vietnamese American, I also watched my parents make sacrifices and work incredibly hard to create a better life for our family. Their example taught me humility, determination, and the value of resilience. That upbringing, along with my passion for medicine, sports, and the opportunity to help others, continues to motivate me to pursue excellence in everything I do.
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
My goal is to pursue a sports medicine fellowship and eventually work with both collegiate and professional athletes. I want to combine my passion for medicine and athletics to provide care at the highest level while continuing to serve my community.
Jennifer Okpara, MD
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Nigeria, but I relocated to Birmingham from Maryland.
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
I truly feel that being at Cahaba is part of God’s plan. Cahaba + UAB FMR appealed to me in so many ways, including its strong commitment to compassionate care, full-spectrum training, a longitudinal curriculum, and a deep focus on serving these communities. From the very beginning, it felt like a close-knit, mission-driven family, exactly the kind of environment I was seeking to grow both personally and professionally.
Undergrad:Windsor University School of Medicine
Medical School:Windsor University School of Medicine
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Outside of medicine I enjoy running, exploring different places, listening to worship songs, cooking and spending time with family and friends.
What is your favorite food to cook?
My favorite food to cook is spicy Nigerian chicken stew with rice.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Paris
What drives you?
I’m driven by a deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others while honoring my faith and values.
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
My current post-residency plan is to pursue a fellowship in Obstetrics while continuing to practice primary care, focusing on serving these populations.
Olubukola Alonge, MD
Where are you from?
From Baltimore, Maryland. Born in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
My being here without a doubt is God orchestrated. Cahaba Medical Care’s overall mission that affirms that the whole point of it all is to love God and show His glory by walking in the steps of Jesus and ministering the love of Christ even in practice aligns perfectly with my vision. I wanted to be a part of the Cahaba family and God surpassed my imagination by giving me an opportunity to be a part of the Cahaba + UAB Highlands program. It checked all the boxes for me. I am indeed here to fulfill purpose by serving these populations while training to be a competent and compassionate Primary Care Physician.
Undergrad: University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Med school: University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Spending time with my husband and two kids both at home and traveling, calling/seeing loved ones and watching movies or shows (life is different now!).
What is your favorite food to cook?
Absolutely depends on the mood and what the ask is, but I like cooking Nigerian Jollof rice with Chicken or baked salmon.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Paris.
What drives you?
A passion to fulfill God’s divine mandate for my life knowing that I am here for a purpose. Also, the will to succeed and exemplify it for my kids and the younger generation.
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
To continue serving Alabamians with all the skill sets acquired during my 3-year training while also utilizing my public health lens. I want to be that voice for these populations spread across this great state, be it rural or urban.
Rosemary Iriowen, MD
Where are you from?
I am originally from Nigeria and relocated to Birmingham from Delaware.
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
For me, Cahaba + UAB Family Medicine Residency sets a clear picture of healthcare delivery at its finest. Its comprehensive approach and commitment to patient care align with my values and professional aspirations. It was an easy decision for me to choose this program knowing I will get formidable training and be well-equipped to foster its tradition of excellence in healthcare delivery. In addition, the geographic terrain, environmental appeal, and sense of community rightly position me for a dynamically unique experience which I am super excited about.
Undergrad/Med School:
I did my undergrad and medical school training in Nigeria where I attended the College of Medicine Ambrose Alli University (undergrad and medical school education) in Edo-state Nigeria.
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
My life outside of medicine is mostly family centered in which I get to wear my other “hats”. I cherish spending time with my husband and children and embracing my roles as a wife and mother. I also value my alone moments during which I enjoy reading books, particularly the “Bible” and watching comedy shows.
What is your favorite food to cook?
My favorite food to cook is Nigerian goat meat pepper soup with yam, which is quite yummy for those who have a taste for spicy food. For those who can’t handle spicy food, it can be “trouble”!
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live in?
With the world being so vast, there are several places I’d like to visit. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, France, England, Norway, Sweden, and Italy are top of my list.
What drives you?
My faith in God, love of family, and passion for patient care; the meaningful impact I can make day by day, time after time.
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
I plan to practice full scope family medicine, be involved in academia to help train aspiring physicians, and also pursue healthcare projects for communities.
Zean Liao, MD
Where are you from?
Houston, TX
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
If you know anything about the Couples Match process, then you know that it is truly in God's hands to go wherever we end up going. With that being said, Cahaba + UAB FMR has been the perfect landing spot for my partner and I (Family Medicine for myself, and General Surgery for her). I was notably impressed by the leadership of Cahaba + UAB FMR, and with Dr. Salser's personal touch on interview day, and am more than thrilled to have joined a program so dedicated to its faith-based mission and provision of passionate healthcare for all. My goals of both becoming a full-spectrum primary care physician and of having the opportunity to pursue post-residency fellowship are clearly aligned with the Cahaba UAB FMR goals of training exemplary servant leader Family Medicine physicians.
Undergrad: Duke University
Med school: McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Outside of medicine, I spend my time with my partner trying new restaurants and catching up on our TV shows. I also enjoy working out, playing basketball, and watching most sports.
What is your favorite food to cook?
Garlic cumin lamb chops
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Greece
What drives you?
My family and faith are what keep me grounded to ultimately pursue my goals of becoming the best version of myself and to pay forward the sacrifices made from all those who have poured into my life.
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship
Bre'Lynn Smith, DO
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Vicksburg, MS
Why did you come to Cahaba + UAB FMR?
I decided to join the Cahaba + UAB FM Residency program largely because of the patient population and geographical location. My motivation behind pursuing a career in medicine was to show the many patients who look and act like myself, that we too can obtain powerful positions in healthcare, and provide care to our critical communities. Training in Alabama for me is like being home, and I believe that I have a duty to serve the patients from all walks of life to ensure that their health and medical needs are met. I have no doubts that the patient population that Cahaba serves, is to train me for an ever evolving career in Family Medicine.
Undergrad: University of Texas at San Antonio
Med school: Pacific Northwest University Health Science Center
What does your life outside of medicine look like?
When I'm not learning/practicing medicine, I am shopping, taking road trips, exploring life and planning the next Game Night w/ food.
What is your favorite food to cook?
I love to eat Pasta, Chicken, Fish and Sausage.
What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
My ideal home would be on the outskirts of a city like Colorado Springs, CO.
What drives you?
I am driven by my passion to pursue a life with few limitations. #Always in pursuit of my next goal.
What is your (current) post-residency plan?
Post Residency, I plan to pursue further training in High Risk Obstetrics & Procedures.