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.

Physician Assistant finds joy in helping patients thrive

“One of the most powerful parts of family medicine is helping patients feel confident in managing their own health.”

Zoe Tenny’s nurturing personality – combined with her love for math and science — made a career in healthcare a natural fit. After shadowing clinicians and gaining hands-on experience as both a scribe and a medical assistant, she discovered her ideal role as a Physician Assistant (PA).

During her PA training, Zoe completed a clinical rotation in family medicine at Vanguard Medical Group and was immediately drawn to its patient-first approach and supportive, collaborative environment.

“I was really interested in women’s health and pediatrics, but what stood out about family medicine is how you get to see it all and treat the patient as a whole person,” she explains. “It’s not just about managing a condition—it’s about understanding their medical history, lifestyle, and personal goals, and creating care plans that truly fit their lives.”

Zoe brings a thoughtful, relationship-driven approach to her practice. Patients often tell her that she’s a great listener who takes time to ask the right questions and explain things in a way they understand. “I love working one-on-one with patients and making sure they feel informed, comfortable, and in control of their health.”

She finds motivation in the tangible impact she sees through follow-up visits and long-term care. “It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the progress patients make over time and to know that I had a part in that. Building those relationships and seeing that positive change—that’s what drives me.”

Outside of the office, Zoe enjoys spending time outdoors—especially at the beach—as well as baking, listening to podcasts, and being with her family.

Physician Assistant Creates Caring Connections with Patients

“When you take the time to understand all the factors in a patient’s life, you get a more complete picture of their health—enabling you to provide more effective care.”

Growing up in a family of healthcare professionals, Rafael always knew he wanted to help people. A self-professed science enthusiast, he found that a career in healthcare perfectly combined his passion and skills. He discovered the physician assistant profession during college while shadowing a PA.

“I was inspired when I first learned about physician assistants—their versatility, integral role in the healthcare system, and ability to work across specialties,” said Rafael. “Shadowing PAs opened my eyes to a dynamic and impactful career, and I knew it was the perfect fit for me.”

While at Rutgers, he volunteered at the HOPE Clinic, providing medical care for the underserved and uninsured in South Plainfield. Not only was he able to make a difference, he honed his skills as a medical professional and solidified his passion for primary care.

“I love the longevity of primary care,” said Rafael. “It allows me to build lasting relationships with my patients, understanding not just their physical health but their mental well-being too. I get to address their concerns, treat their problems, and follow their progress as they grow and navigate through life. It’s incredibly rewarding to be an integral part of their journey.”

Patients like that Rafael takes his time and is attentive to their concerns. “They say I am thorough and that I listen,” he explained. “If I can do anything, it’s to be the listening ear that they need. Plus, you’ll find that often, if you slow down and just listen, patients will share the essential information that helps you to help them.”

When he’s not working, Rafael enjoys spending time with friends, and regularly joins them for jam sessions. Singing and making music is one of his favorite ways to unwind. He also enjoys working out, playing volleyball and video games.

Primary Care Physician Assistant Values Patient Relationships

“Primary care is the foundation of patient health and wellbeing.”

Physician Assistant Emily Childers got her first glimpse of her future career in high school. She was part of a health science program that visited different hospitals and facilities. As someone who loved helping people, a healthcare career resonated with her. Her experience with her own provider, a physician assistant, solidified the choice.

“She was empathetic and thorough,” said Emily. “I always felt heard when I saw her. She built that relationship with me. I ended up shadowing her and ultimately working for her later on as a medical assistant.”

Now as a physician assistant in primary care, Emily enjoys helping patients of all ages stay healthy. Emily’s patients say she is genuine and empathetic. They like that she takes the time to listen to them. She strives to help them fully understand their health. She focuses on preventative care, and encourages healthy habits, screenings, and proactive steps that patients can take.

“I’m looking forward to following my patients for the long-term, and I want them to know that they’re a valued partner in their health care journey,” says Emily. “I want them to feel comfortable coming to me with their concerns, big or small, so that we can address them together.”

When she’s not working, Emily enjoys baking, yoga, and taking her dog to parks. Originally from Dallas, she also likes exploring the area and discovering new favorite destinations.