Anjali Sivendra, MD

Physician Leads with Insight, Listens with Heart

“I want patients to feel like they’ve found a safe space—where they’re seen, heard, and supported at every stage of life.”

Dr. Anjali Sivendra discovered her passion for medicine at an early age, inspired by watching her father, an internal medicine physician, build close, meaningful relationships with patients in their community. While she initially envisioned a similar path, it was during her third year of medical school that she found her true calling in family medicine. “It was everything—pediatrics, women’s health, geriatrics, OB,” she says. “I loved the idea of caring for people across all ages and stages.”

As a family medicine physician at Vanguard Medical Group’s Jersey City Downtown office, Dr. Sivendra brings that full-scope care to life every day. She chose Vanguard because of its provider-led structure and patient-first approach. “I was drawn to the emphasis on lifestyle medicine and innovative, holistic care,” she says.

Women’s health remains a key area of focus for Dr. Sivendra, both clinically and through community service. As a past president of the Camden Prenatal Collaborative, she worked to connect underserved women with vital prenatal care. “It wasn’t just about medical procedures—it was about education,” she explains. “Helping patients better understand their health gives them more autonomy and confidence.”

Patients often describe Dr. Sivendra as having a calm, reassuring presence. “I try to explain things in plain language and really meet people where they are,” she says. “I think that makes them feel safer and more at ease.”

She believes the beauty of family medicine lies in building lasting relationships. “You get to know patients as whole people—not just their conditions. Understanding their goals, families, and what motivates them is key to providing truly personalized care.”

Dr. Sivendra is a strong advocate for inclusivity in healthcare. “I want every patient to know they’re welcome here, no matter who they are or what they’re going through.”

Outside of work, she enjoys cooking traditional Tamil dishes, tackling home improvement projects, painting, and cross stitching. She also regularly volunteers at GRACE Church in Summit and the Ozanam Shelter Soup Kitchen in Edison.