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Family Medicine Residency Greer - Residents

PGY-1

Braden Chase Bennett, DO

Braden Chase Bennett, DO

I’m from Cary, North Carolina but also spent a lot of time in Kernersville, North Carolina growing up. I did my undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University – Idaho where I majored in Biology. I then did medical school at Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine. 

There were several reasons why I choose to pursue my medical training here at the Prisma Health Greer Family Medicine residency.  After my interview, I felt that the people here would be supportive of me during my training, and that I would enjoy getting to work with everyone. I felt like I could come here and be supported in all my interests in medicine.  I also wanted to come to a place where my family would have a great experience.  I couldn’t be happier with getting to be a part of this program!

Within medicine I have special interests in geriatrics and obesity medicine, but also enjoy general outpatient medicine.  Outside of medicine, I love spending time with my wife and our two kids.  We usually spend our time exploring local parks, watching a movie, or going to the beach. 

Lauren Byrd, DO

Lauren Byrd, DO

I am from Hattiesburg, Mississippi and completed my undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Mississippi and my medical degree from Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine right down the road in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

I chose the Greer Family Medicine Program because of their unique position as a community hospital, nestled close to a larger academic hospital in Greenville. Something that was important to me during my residency search was finding a program that practiced good interpersonal skills and worked as a team both in the clinic and hospital to ensure that patients were receiving the highest care possible. During my interview, I could tell that everyone from the faculty to the residents cared about the Greer community. The education I am receiving here at CFM-Greer pushes me to think beyond the medicine and to look at the person as a whole – including things like food security, lifestyle, access to medications, and different socio-economic standings and how these different aspects affect the health and well-being of each of my patients.

My interest within family medicine includes geriatric populations, hospice and palliative care along with educating patients and families on signs and symptoms of caregiver fatigue. My interests outside of work include exploring new hikes and trails in the mountains that are only a short drive from work or a nice evening in downtown Greenville.

Sierra Wren Fowler, DO

Sierra Wren Fowler, DO

I'm Wren! I'm from Shingle Hollow, NC, which is a small community between Asheville and Charlotte close to Lake Lure. I went to NC State University to get my undergraduate degrees in Plant Biology and Human Biology. I went to medical school at Campbell University in Buies Creek, NC.

I did an Acting Internship at Greer Family Medicine Program during my 4th year of medical school. All the residents were super welcoming, and the faculty genuinely cared about shaping great physicians as well as supporting residents outside of medicine; I even saw faculty learn new areas of medicine just to support residents' interests. I liked that the hospital in Greer was small enough to know most of the physicians/nurses/other staff by name, but it also had the same resources as a larger hospital with its PRISMA connections. My interest in OMT was another big attraction to this program, and Greer's geographical location is ideal- close to Greenville and about an hour drive to the mountains. I spend a lot of time outside camping, gently hiking with my mystery breed dog, or just porch-sitting with a book, and I want to eventually practice in a rural, mountain area, so proximity to the mountains was important to me. Ultimately, Greer Family Medicine Program has everything I was looking for in a program with a beautiful collection of people and in a lovely location. I'm happy to be here.

Ashlyn Hill, MD

Ashlyn Hill, MD

Hi, my name is Ashlyn Hill ! I was born and raised in Greenville, South Carolina and I attended Mauldin High School. After graduating, I went to the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC to pursue my Bachelors of Biological Sciences and minor in Spanish. After undergrad, I started working as a Family Medicine Scribe, where I fell in love with family medicine! I then went back to USC to receive my Certificate of Graduate Studies in Public Health. Following that, I began my medical school career at Ross University School Medicine. Attending a Caribbean medical school allowed me to live and practice medicine in numerous places including in Barbados, Chicago, Atlanta, and Miami. 

After all the traveling in med school, I wanted stability and familiarity so when I began searching for a residency programs, I knew I wanted to be close to home. I participated in the MedEx program at Greenville Memorial Hospital and was familiar with the Prisma Heath system, so I knew I wanted to be a part of it! I was fortunate enough to be able to return close to home when I matched with Greer Family Medicine!  I was attracted by the approachability of the faculty and current residents, everyone seemed extremely happy with their lives both inside and outside of medicine. Work/Life balance seemed to be made a priority with this program, and that was one of the more important criteria for me when choosing programs. The close proximity to such a large academic center, USC, and large hospital system, Prisma Health, was also a major plus. I believed GrFM would be a great place to train and my intuition was right!

I am interested in Minority Health, Women’s Health and Adolescent Medicine. I also enjoy working with free medical clinics, my ultimate goal is to have my own free clinic one day. I enjoy traveling, playing Sudoku, babysitting my two nieces, and being with friends and family! You can also find me scouring Amazon, looking for things that I do not need or scrolling through Twitter for a good laugh!

 

Brian Malerick, DO

Brian Malerick, DO

I am from Hudson, Ohio, and I earned my undergraduate degree from Miami University in Ohio. I completed medical school at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Virginia. I decided to pursue a career in family medicine because I enjoy providing longitudinal care and the relationships it allows me to create with my patients.

I chose the Greer Family Medicine Residency Program because I was looking for a community-based program where I could learn what I need to know to become a competent family medicine physician and have fun while doing it. I really connected with the residents and faculty during the interview process, and I knew that I would have a great experience during my time in the program. After residency, I plan on working in a rural outpatient setting.

During my free time, I enjoy spending time outside with family and friends golfing, skiing, and fishing lakes and mountain streams.

PGY-2

Lauren Chadwell, DO

Lauren Chadwell, DO

I am originally from Kentucky and completed my undergraduate degree in Nutrition at the University of Kentucky. I earned my medical degree at Lincoln Memorial University – Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine. What initially drew me to the Greer Family Medicine Residency Program was the location. Nestled between the mountains and the vibrant city of Greenville, it’s a quick trip to the beach and my Old Kentucky Home. During my interview, I quickly realized this was a family. The program values its residents as doctors and learners, but people first. I knew the culture created here at Greer would be a place I could learn and grow into the Physician I aspire to be.

Outside of work, I love spending time with family, friends, and my dog, Kira. I am always up for trying new restaurants and browsing home decor shops. I love a good book, beach trips, and the Kentucky Wildcats!

Julia Clark, DO

Julia Clark, DO

I am excited to call the Greer Family Medicine Residency home! I am originally from Winston Salem, NC and earned my bachelor’s degree from Clemson University (Go Tigers!). I completed my medical education at Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine.

 I chose Greer because I have a passion for the Upstate South Carolina community. I enjoy caring for people in all stages of life, and helping them create healthy lifestyles, which is why Family Medicine, and specifically Greer, was a perfect fit! 

 Outside of medicine, I enjoy watching college football and traveling with my husband. We love to see new places, and I have been fortunate to provide medical care to underserved populations in Central and South America, combining both of my passions.

Lauren Cole, DO

Lauren Cole, DO

I was raised by my grandparents in Florence, SC but I have called the upstate home for a while now.  I completed my undergraduate degree at Francis Marion University and earned my medical degree from VCOM-Carolinas in Spartanburg, SC.  Between working and volunteering, I have spent almost 14 years in assisted living facilities. 

During medical school, I spent some time at Greer Family Medicine and immediately knew this was the place for me.  I grew up in a family that what we lacked in money, we made up for with love.  Because of financial reasons, we did not always have access to healthcare.  I want to be that resource for this community.  At Greer, I feel honored to work with a team of brilliant minds and caring hearts.  Everyone deserves to be heard and Greer Family Medicine department makes it their mission to value each patient like they are family. 

My interests in medicine are geriatrics, palliative care, LGBTQ+ health, women’s health, and mental health.  Outside of work, I am a dog mom to my Saint Bernard named Bernie.  My partner and I are huge hockey fans – Go Avalanche!  Playoff season is a national holiday in our house.  I also love Broadway musicals and local plays.  If I’m not at work, then I’m either at home watching a Gene Wilder movie, at a brewery, or listening to 70s yacht rock.  

Rick Kania, MD

Rick Kania, MD

I grew up in the small farm town of Fairview, NC.  My educational experience was non-traditional. I took an eight-year hiatus in the middle of my undergraduate education and worked as an automotive technician and then as an Army medic. It was during my time caring for the underserved populations in Iraq that I realized my passions and interests intersected upon the plight of the medically underserved. I later finished my undergraduate education at NC State University and received a medical degree from Wake Forest University.

My interests in family medicine and primary care include rural medicine, preventative care, emergency medicine, and wilderness medicine. I was drawn to Prisma Greer because of its size and location. I believe the small size of the team at Prisma Greer fosters close friendships and a familial atmosphere. I was drawn to the upstate of SC because of the opportunity the location presents to care for a diverse range of patients, underserved and well-served alike.

When not at work, I feel a visceral drive to immerse myself in nature. A forest, river, lake, or meadow far from the sound of automobiles is always atop the itinerary. I enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and exploring national and state parks with my wife and daughter. I have enjoyed mountain biking for most of my life and have worked on many public trail systems in the Carolinas.

Jessica Nix, DO

Jessica Nix, DO

I am originally from Knoxville, TN. I completed my undergraduate degree in Health, Exercise, and Sport Studies at Denison University in Granville, OH. I then earned my medical degree at Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine.   

 I chose Greer Family Medicine Residency because of that clique ‘feeling.’ During my interview, I felt that the program genuinely cared about their residents and had built a strong community-based program. 

My interests within family medicine include sports medicine, osteopathic manipulative medicine, and lifestyle/preventative medicine. Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time outside (hiking, cycling, kayaking) and taking my dog, Hank, on adventures.

Aaron Rodriguez, MD

Aaron Rodriguez, MD

My name is Aaron Rodriguez and I am from Rochester, New York. I completed my undergraduate degree in Biology at St. John Fisher College and earned my medical degree from the American University of Antigua College of Medicine.

I chose to pursue a career in family medicine because I felt that it is the one area in medicine where you can form lasting relationships with your patients and truly make an impact at the community level. During the interviewing process I came across the Greer Family Medicine program and immediately felt a connection. The residents and faculty are all genuine, caring people with a passion for learning and providing the highest standard of care for their patients. I believe that this program will help me continue to develop my clinical skills and prepare me for my future career path.

My main areas of interest in medicine include Sports Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine. As a lifelong athlete, I feel I can make a lasting impact in the field of sports medicine and really connect with my patients. My interests outside of work include spending time with my wife and dog, golfing and other outdoor activities. I also really enjoy traveling to new places and learning about new cultures. I look forward to my next three years at Prisma Health Greer and starting the next amazing chapter in my life!

PGY-3

Mary Ann Allston, MD

Mary Ann Allston, MD

My hometown is Charleston, SC. I grew up there and in Waynesville, NC. In high school I wanted to become a Registered Nurse, so I attended nursing school at USC for 2 years. At some point I realized that was not the path for me and I started looking for the correct one. Eventually, I found myself attending the University of Pécs Medical School in Hungary. Before jumping on that trans-Atlantic flight, I had never left US soil and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.

After graduation and returning to the US I knew that it would be challenging to get into a residency program. With that in mind I applied extremely broadly just to increase my chances. Who would have thought that my ideal residency program was sitting right in my backyard? Greer Family Medicine Residency had all the things I was looking for and then some. The community in Greer is one that is teaching me valuable lessons in caring for a broad patient demographic. The program is perceptive and adaptive to my needs as a resident and family medicine physician. The faculty are invested in promoting my growth as a quality and effective physician. The residents are second to none.

Regarding me personally, I enjoy a great many outdoor activities and it is easy for me to find respite in nature. I love hiking, running, swimming, surfing, playing in my garden and climbing trees. I love spontaneous adventures and travelling. I want to set foot on every continent. I am a coffee snob and enjoy cooking. I love engaging with other humans.

Rachel Downs, MD

Rachel Downs, MD

I am a non-traditional student that not only grew up in this area, but I also lived, worked, and started my family here long before I decided to pursue a career in medicine. Even after making the decision to become a doctor, I stayed local and completed my undergraduate degree at the University of South Carolina Upstate and received my medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine-Greenville. The Upstate is my home and I look forward to continuing my training here at the Greer Family Medicine Residency.

To say that I feel like I hit the “Jackpot” for residencies is an understatement. As a student I was able to do an away rotation at Greer and I was instantly amazed by the genuine compassion and supportive relationships that the faculty not only had with patients but with each other as well. One of the best qualities of this program is the interest that everyone from the attending physicians to the nursing staff at our clinic has for helping residents grow into confident, caring, patient-centered providers. I am grateful to be able to say that I know my residency program will not only develop my clinical skills as a physician but also foster an environment where I can develop my own career interests in medicine too. My interests include Collaborative Care Models, Child and Adolescent Medicine, and Patient Education.

While I enjoy being able to work my dream job every day, I am a mom first and I love spending quality time with my children and family when I am not logging work hours. Vacationing is the absolute best, and I can think of no better way to spend a day than taking a long walk on a beach, anywhere in the world. I am always willing to take a moment to have a good laugh with my co-residents as often as I can, read a new book, take a day trip to an antique shop, or enjoy an evening of completely not thinking!

Robert Heck, DO

Robert Heck, DO

Originally from Florida, I relocated to the mountains of North Carolina where I worked in web development until matriculating at the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine. Once I embarked upon the difficult yet rewarding journey to practice medicine, I knew this was my true calling. I am excited to help take care of my community using compassionate, evidence-based medicine with a particular interest in behavioral health. I chose to continue my training in Greer because of the supportive culture, wonderful people, and perfect location. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, gardening, and the occasional video game or science fiction book. I am so happy and proud to be a part of the Greer Family Medicine Residency team!

Erica Jolly, MD

Erica Jolly, MD

I am originally from the Spartanburg area and lived in various parts of it while growing up. I went to Wofford College for undergrad and then moved away to Columbia, SC to complete medical school at the USC School of Medicine there. When choosing a location for residency, I wanted to head back toward my roots and be closer to family and loved ones in the Upstate area. When I discovered the Prisma Health Family Medicine program at Greer, I fell in love with the people and atmosphere and knew that it was going to be the place for me.

Family has always been a very important part of my life, so it wasn’t a difficult decision to choose Family Medicine as the specialty for my medical career. I am interested in preventative medicine, women’s health, and rural medicine. I love that I can work with such a diverse patient population. While the Greer Family Medicine Residency Program is still new, I am excited to be a part of its second class and help in its advancement.

My interests outside of work include spending time with my family and close friends. I also enjoy cooking (I always said if medicine didn’t work out, culinary school was my backup), hiking (Paris Mountain is one of my favorite places to go) and sending the occasional meme (life is too short to not laugh as much as you can). I look forward to spending the next three years at Prisma Health in Greer and will ensure that I provide quality care to all of my patients.

Kristen Landy, DO

Kristen Landy, DO

I was born and raised in Melbourne, FL. I completed my undergrad at the University of Florida, and a Master’s in Medical Science at University of South Florida. I attended medical school at Campbell University. I have been slowly trying to work my way closer to the Appalachian Mountains by first getting to NC, then doing rotations in Charlotte, and finally coming to the foothills here in Greer.

I chose Greer Family Medicine Residency Program because of the faculty and culture at this program. Being a newer program, Greer has quickly established itself as being a warm and supportive environment. In addition, the faculty here is responsive to residents and I have the opportunity to have more input on my education.

My interests in medicine include OMT and lifestyle/preventative medicine. I think as primary care doctors, we should try to view our job as preventing chronic illness before it happens rather than just treating when it crops up.

The love of my life is my Husky mix, Aurora, who loves the mountains and hiking just as much as I do. We are in heaven here in the foothills at Greer with tons of opportunity to get outside.

Krishna Patel, DO

Krishna Patel, DO

My name is Krishna Patel, and I am from Johns Creek, Georgia. I completed my undergraduate degree in Neuroscience at Georgia State University and earned my medical degree at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine – Georgia.

I chose to pursue residency at the Greer Family Medicine Program because I was looking for a community-based program with faculty that genuinely cared about their residents’ education and well-being. During the interview, I felt a unique connection with the entire team, I could immediately tell that they were all a family. In addition, I couples matched with my husband, who is now in the Greer Psychiatry Residency Program – I truly feel like it was fate!

My interests within family medicine include lifestyle medicine, osteopathic manipulative medicine, and women’s’ health. Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my husband and family, and caring for our German Shepherd rescue pup, Duke. I also like painting, dancing, hiking, and exploring the outdoors and new restaurants.