Provider Location: Verona - Grove Ave.

Nathan Plaskett, DO

Family Physician Embraces Diversity and Compassion

“I see every patient relationship as a partnership built on respect, trust, and genuine care.”

From an early age, Dr. Nathan Plaskett’s hands were at the piano keys. A gifted musician, he spent years pursuing classical piano before realizing that his true calling lay not on the stage, but in service to others. Guided by a lifelong love of science and an innate sense of empathy, he shifted his focus from music to medicine — trading concert halls for clinic rooms to help people live healthier lives.

He chose family medicine because of its breadth and variety. “No other specialty gives you the same scope of practice,” he says.

At Vanguard Medical Group, Dr. Plaskett blends the artistry of human connection with the precision of science. Known for his down-to-earth personality, he approaches each patient with warmth, respect, and genuine curiosity. He is especially committed to providing inclusive, nonjudgmental care for all patients, including those who are underrepresented or part of the LGBTQ+ community.

“The doctor-patient relationship is the foundation for quality care,” he says. “Developing that mutual respect and trust is so important.” Patients like that he takes the time to fully explain their health in clear, compassionate terms. Patient education is a pivotal part of the process.

Dr. Plaskett enjoys working as part of a team at Vanguard. You’ll find him both in the office and doing rounds for Vanguard patients at the hospital. “This is an extension of the care that our patients receive in the office,” he explains. “Continuity of care is so important.”

Outside the office, Dr. Plaskett’s lifelong love of music continues — and these days he’s just as likely to be repairing a piano as playing one. He’s also learning guitar and is a dedicated martial arts enthusiast, who has volunteered for the Bruce Lee Foundation.

Olivia Ramos, PA-C

Physician Assistant Empowers Patients to Live Their Healthiest Lives

“It’s such a privilege to do what I love and to make a difference every single day.”

For Olivia Ramos, PA-C, healthcare is more than a profession — it’s a calling rooted in curiosity, compassion, and connection. “I’ve always loved science — biology, chemistry, math — but what really inspired me was the idea of using that knowledge to make a tangible difference in people’s lives,” she says.

A lifelong athlete and former competitive cheerleader, Olivia learned early on the value of a healthy body and a strong support system. Athletics taught her discipline and teamwork. She sought a career where she could help others take care of their bodies and feel their best, and that led her to become a Physician Assistant.

Olivia first discovered Vanguard Medical Group through classmates who raved about their clinical rotations — and through her mother, who was a patient. “I could tell that Vanguard values exceptional, personalized care,” she recalls. “As a physician-led organization, they really exemplify that patient-first mentality.”

In family medicine, Olivia has found her perfect fit. She loves caring for patients of all ages and helping them navigate every stage of life. “Primary care is such a special field because it focuses on prevention and education,” she says. “I love taking the time to explain diagnoses and the ‘why’ behind recommendations because knowledge is powerful.”

Known for her warmth and patience, Olivia takes pride in truly listening. She makes a conscious effort to let patients tell their story without interruptions. “That’s when you really learn who they are and how to help.”

When she’s not caring for patients, Olivia enjoys hiking, spending time with family and friends, listening to music, and reading by the beach.

Denise T. Donnelly, M.D.

Physician helps patients feel understood and empowered

“I treat my patients the way I’d want someone to treat my own family, with honesty and compassion.”

Dr. Denise Donnelly knew she wanted to become a doctor from a young age—but not because of a TV show or a science class. It was during a life-changing visit to the family physician when she was just six years old. Her younger brother had recently been diagnosed with autism, and the doctor took the time to explain it not just to her parents, but to her as well.

“I remember walking out of that appointment and thinking, ‘Wow, I feel better,’” she recalls. “That moment stuck with me—how a doctor could help ease anxiety and bring clarity, even to a child. I knew then I wanted to be that kind of doctor.”

Though she initially considered pediatrics, Dr. Donnelly discovered her true calling in family medicine during medical school. She was drawn to the continuity of care, the opportunity to support every generation in a family, and the variety of experiences each day brings. “I love that I get to see kids, their parents, their grandparents—all in one day. It keeps things interesting and deeply meaningful.”

Her patients describe her as warm, approachable, and honest. “I’m a people person—I love connecting with patients,” she says. “I talk to them like I’d talk to a friend or family member. No medical jargon, just real conversations about their health and how we can work together to improve it.”

Dr. Donnelly brings a balance of empathy and accountability to her practice. “Sometimes you need a little tough love, but always with compassion. I want my patients to know I care, and I’m rooting for them.”

Outside the office, she enjoys cycling and logging miles on her Peloton. She shares her life with her fiancé, Kyle, and their whippet, Nitro. She also loves spending time with family and winding down with a good book.

Kristina Chan, PA-C

Physician Assistant Builds Trust Through Compassionate Listening

“The most powerful thing we can do in medicine is listen—with empathy, patience, and purpose.”

Kristina Chan got an early introduction to the power of healthcare. In high school, she watched as a dedicated medical team helped her grandmother recover from a stroke, restoring her to nearly full function over a period of months. That experience made a lasting impact and sparked Kristina’s decision to pursue a career where she could make the same kind of difference for others—as a Physician Assistant (PA).

Before earning her PA degree, Kristina gained hands-on experience working as an EMT—a role that proved especially meaningful when her team responded to a stroke patient. Thanks to their training, they were able to recognize the signs quickly and get him to the hospital promptly. “In that moment, it all came full circle for me,” she recalls. “I was able to help someone in a situation similar to what my grandmother went through.”

During her PA clinical training, Kristina completed two rotations at Vanguard Medical Group and immediately felt at home. “The teamwork stood out to me,” she says. “I loved how PAs and physicians collaborated, and how there was access to specialties like sports medicine. I knew this was the kind of practice I wanted to be a part of.”

Kristina is drawn to the variety of family medicine, where no two days—or patients—are ever the same. “One patient may come in with a cold, another with diabetes, and another with a skin concern,” she says. Her background in dermatology gives her a special interest in skin health and cancer screening. “I always tell patients that skin checks are just as important as colonoscopies. It’s about prevention and early detection.”

Patients appreciate Kristina’s calm, compassionate approach. “Sometimes people come in anxious, worried about their symptoms or a possible diagnosis. I make it a point to listen—really listen. That alone can bring a lot of comfort.”

What does she love most about being a PA? “Helping people. It’s that simple. Just like the team helped my grandmother, I want to be that person for someone else. That makes me happy.”

Outside of the office, Kristina enjoys staying active—especially playing volleyball—and is involved in her local church, where she helps foster community and fellowship.

Christie Joshi, PA-C

Physician Assistant Values Quality Patient Interactions

“It’s a privilege to be part of my patients’ lives.”

Long before she chose a career in healthcare, Christie Joshi witnessed the deep bond between patients and providers. When her father fell ill, her mother—a hospice nurse—became his caregiver. “I understood what it felt like to need comfort and guidance,” Christie recalls. “I saw firsthand how trust and rapport make all the difference.”

That experience led her to become a primary care physician assistant, a role she loves for its variety. “In a single day, I might see patients with respiratory infections, chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension, or those simply coming in for preventive screenings,” she explains. “No matter the reason for their visit, I want to help them take control of their health.”

Christie joined Vanguard because of its comprehensive, team-based approach to patient care. “The model here is unique,” she says. “We have primary care providers and specialists—cardiology, gastroenterology, sports medicine—all in one place. Plus, having a pharmacist on staff to consult about medications is invaluable. It’s an environment designed for high-quality care.”

Patients describe Christie as approachable, kind, and empathetic. Known for her calming presence and clear explanations, she strives to make every patient feel at ease. “I want them to feel heard and reassured, especially if they’re nervous.”

For Christie, the most rewarding part of her work is being there for patients during difficult times. “When someone is facing a health challenge, you’re reminded of our shared humanity,” she says. “Making a difference in those moments is the greatest service I can provide.”

Outside of work, Christie enjoys walking, playing tennis, and baking gluten-free treats. An avid reader, she loves curling up with a good book alongside her rescue cats.

Melissa Ann Eppinger, MD

Family physician sees the person behind the diagnosis

“My goal is to provide compassionate care that acknowledges each patient’s unique story, empowering them through every step of their healthcare journey.”

Melissa Ann Eppinger’s path to medicine seems almost destined. With a father who is a nephrologist and a mother who works as a physician assistant, healthcare was always a central theme in her life. During high school, a volunteer job as a hospital courier, delivering flowers and plants to patients, gave her a firsthand look at the difference a kind gesture can make. However, it was a profound personal experience with a life-changing diagnosis that truly set her on the path to becoming Dr. Melissa Ann Eppinger.

“I understand what it’s like to be on the other side of the examination table,” she said, “feeling the fear and worry. My goal is to ensure my patients know that I’m here for them, seeing them as more than just their medical conditions.”

Dr. Eppinger ultimately pursued her medical education with a focus on family medicine. Her formative experiences included internships in surgery and pediatric neurosurgery, where she conducted and published research in areas such as breast oncology, hypertension, pediatric neurosurgery, and neurology.

Returning to New Jersey, where she considers home, she said “I feel a strong connection to the community that helped shape who I am today.” Dr. Eppinger chose Vanguard for its comprehensive resources and patient-centered approach.

Dr. Eppinger values the diversity of her patients, from newborns to the elderly and everyone in between. “I could be seeing a sick appointment, and then seeing a baby, and after that treating someone with a chronic medical condition,” she said. “They are so much more than their chronic medical conditions, hypertension, anxiety, depression, and diabetes, so much more than their blood pressure value, hemoglobin count or A1C value. They are also mothers and fathers, chefs and firefighters and marathon runners, and that’s how I think we should be treating our patients. We need to take a step back and truly get to know who our patients are to really be effective clinicians.”

She has a particular passion for women’s health, engaging in meaningful conversations about issues that many women are hesitant to discuss. “I aim to empower women and emphasize the importance of healthcare screenings. I also provide services like pap smears, birth control implants, and intrauterine device insertions.”

Her patients appreciate her personable and compassionate approach, noting her dedication to listening and understanding their concerns. “It’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of my patients’ lives, helping them through both the big and small challenges,” she said.

Outside of work, Dr. Eppinger enjoys traveling, staying fit through cardio kickboxing, and dancing competitively in jazz, contemporary, and ballet.

Roger DiRuggiero, MD

Physician Brings Depth and Breadth of Experience in Internal Medicine and Urgent Care

“Compassionate and excellent patient care starts with the connection between the provider and the patient.”

Long before Roger DiRuggiero ever donned a white coat or picked up a stethoscope, he was a kid captivated by a family physician. His Uncle Nick was the consummate family doctor of the 1970s, delivering babies and performing surgery. “He was my hero and one of the reasons I chose a career in medicine,” said Dr. DiRuggiero. He also found inspiration from his dad, a pharmacist who always went the extra mile for his customers.

He chose to study medicine in Italy at the University of Padova. Not only was it one of the oldest and most demanding medical schools in the world, but it was near family. He reconnected with his great aunts and uncles during his time there.

Returning to the states for his internal medicine residency, Dr. DiRuggiero worked concurrently at the hospital and an urgent care center. “In urgent care, you treat the full spectrum of ages,” he said. “I really enjoyed acute care and also liked the surgical aspect including being able to delve into orthopedics.” Ultimately, it was his inspiration to open a hybrid practice, incorporating both internal medicine and urgent care, 7 days a week.

Dr. DiRuggiero is excited to be joining Vanguard Medical Group, which follows his core philosophy of family medicine that puts the patient first. Now he looks forward to getting to know a new group of patients.

“I think the most enjoyable thing about my relationships with patients is our social connection,” he said. “It doesn’t make any difference whether it’s the Super Bowl or golf, children or grandchildren, hobbies, or interests. I search for that connection, and we have a continuous dialogue from visit to visit. It makes the office visit more personal, human to human. That helps build trust and ultimately compliance.”

Dr. DiRuggiero finds fulfillment in helping his patients on their health journey. “It’s knowing that I have a broad breadth of knowledge and skill set to treat anybody who comes to our office. They can leave knowing that they have an action plan that keeps them feeling their best.”

When he’s not working, Dr. DiRuggiero enjoys traveling, including to his beloved Italy and to St. Barts. He is an avid golfer and also is teaching himself guitar. He is passionate about staying fit and healthy and starts his daily routine with a gym workout that keeps him feeling his best.

Urvi Patel, PA-C

Physician assistant helps patients take control of their health

“I think of primary care as the headquarters for a patient’s health.”

When Urvi Patel was in high school, her grandfather had a heart attack. That’s when she realized that no one in her family was equipped to deal with a medical emergency.  “I had this opportunity as a first-generation college student to pursue whatever career I wanted, and that’s when I decided on medicine,” she said.

Urvi ultimately chose a career as a physician assistant, and during her schooling, she gravitated toward pediatrics, women’s health, and family medicine. Vanguard Medical Group was a natural fit because the primary care practice incorporates all three, and more. “Vanguard’s team-based care approach creates a supportive environment where everyone is helping each other,” she said. “That not only helps me as a provider, but in turn it benefits our patients.”

She takes the time to really listen to her patients and address their concerns. “It’s so important to listen with an unbiased, nonjudgmental ear,” she said. “That way, you can get to know your patients and get a full picture of their health. The better that you understand the whole person, the better you will be able to provide recommendations for treatment or preventive care.”

Urvi feels the impact that she makes every single day. “I like being able to go home, knowing that I made a difference in someone’s life. That is very fulfilling for me. Helping people is what drew me to medicine in the first place.”

When she’s not working, Urvi loves to read, bake, and spend time with family. “I have a huge family,” she said, “and we see each other lot.”

Nadira Khan, PA-C

Physician Assistant Encourages Self-Care

“Good things happen when we take care of ourselves. We have to learn to prioritize ourselves and our health.”

As the oldest of four girls, Nadira Khan was the natural caretaker for her sisters. From a young age, she knew that caring for others would factor into her career choice. She found the ideal role during a hospital volunteer experience while she was in high school. “That’s when I learned about physician assistants,” Nadira said. “I loved everything about the PA profession, from its schooling to its flexibility to its variety.” She chose family medicine because it offered the most varied experience. “It’s something new every single day, and I never tire of it,” she said.

Nadira’s patients appreciate her thoroughness and the time she spends with them. “I’m a very good listener, and I really take the time to understand my patients’ point of view. I want to know how they’re feeling and why they’re feeling that way. My goal is to have the kind of rapport where they can talk to me about anything.”

“I treat all my patients as if they were my family members,” added Nadira. “I want them to thrive no matter what challenges they may face.” That’s why she encourages them to practice self-care. Toward that end, she advocates preventive care, making sure patients are up to date on vaccinations and screenings, and following healthy lifestyles. “At the end of the day, we should learn to give ourselves compassion, time, and attention to focus on our own needs, desires and goals,” she said. “This way we can better support ourselves and our loved ones with a healthy rejuvenated mind/body.”

When she’s not working, Nadira likes to spend time with family and friends back in Brooklyn. She also enjoys working out and practicing her own self-care regimen.

Michelle Tavares, RDN, CDCES

“The best part is helping patients realize they’re able to manage their health through the way they eat.”

Michelle Tavares has always had a passion for healthy living. Her interest in diet and exercise inspired her career as a registered dietitian nutritionist, which has brought her immense joy. In this role, she helps people meet their health and lifestyle goals. Her specialties are medical nutrition therapy and diabetes management.

“I spent several years working at a hospital, where I saw quite a bit of end-stage disease,” she said. “I saw how uncontrolled diabetes was one of the primary conditions that led to these end-stage diseases. Since diabetes can be managed with diet and exercise, I thought this was where my expertise as a dietitian would be best put to use.”

As a registered dietitian, Michelle works in VMG’s Nutrition Counseling and Diabetes Education Program, providing patients the tools and knowledge needed to manage diabetes and health-related diseases. Services include weight loss counseling, medical nutrition therapy, diabetes and prediabetes management counseling, and personalized counseling on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She advises patients on the role that diet can play and creates a customized nutrition plan.

“I try to individualize sessions for each person based on his or her own unique needs and goals,” said Michelle. “I ask about the person’s schedule and cultural background so that I can truly customize a plan that will be a good fit.”

Michelle has created healthy versions of popular recipes. For example, she re-created a popular South American meal, modifying it for a heart-healthy meal plan. “I removed the salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure. I added different peppers and increased the oregano and garlic. I also included a touch of turmeric because it helps with inflammation. The patient loved it.”

Patients say that Michelle is easy to talk to and makes them feel comfortable. “I enjoy getting to know my patients and being able to individualize my sessions based on their own unique needs and goals,” she said.

When she is not working, Michelle enjoys running, skiing and exercising on her Peloton. She also likes trying new healthy recipes.