Addictions; Behavioral Health; Community Based Participatory Research; Family Medicine; Global Health; Health Services Research; Health Services Research; Primary Care; Substance Use Disorder
As a family physician, I have always wanted to work where I’m needed most. I enjoy practicing in medically underserved communities both locally and globally. I see patients on Buffalo’s East Side. I also routinely take medical students with me on medical relief trips to impoverished and developing countries. I was born in Kenya, East Africa and am grateful to my parents for giving me an international upbringing and global perspective on life. They were inspiring teachers who had a heart for students and for serving those in need around the world. This contributed to my passion for global health.
From delivering babies to caring for those at the end of their lives and all ages in between, I engage in the full spectrum of family health care. I see patients and precept students and residents at ECMC Family Health Center in Buffalo; I perform outpatient procedures as well as visit patients in their homes. Patient education is an important aspect of my care, because I strongly believe that part of my work is to prevent disease. I strive to practice high quality, patient-centered and holistic health care. I address not only the physical wellness of my patients, but also their emotional, social and spiritual needs.
I am also board certified in addiction medicine. I love working with patients struggling with addictions because, over several months, I see many of their lives dramatically change for the better.
I enjoy teaching students and residents in various settings, e.g., in classrooms, hospitals, outpatient offices, free clinics—and even farther afield in backdrops such as the Adirondack Mountains and rural Haiti. At times, I hold informal seminars at my home. Seeing trainees progress through the years and develop into outstanding physicians inspires and gratifies me.
After completing my residency at UB, my wife, who is also on the medical school’s faculty, and I liked Buffalo so much that we decided to raise our children in Western New York. Being a UB faculty member is a perfect fit for me. It allows me to teach, care for those in need, pursue my research interests and above all, make a difference. I try to live by my personal mission statement: “The purpose of my life is to love and honor God and my family and make a positive and significant difference in the lives of others.” Being a medical faculty member at UB gives me the supportive environment and diverse community to work toward those goals every day.
Addictions, Behavioral Health, Community Based Participatory Research, Family Medicine, Global Health, Health Services Research, Health Services Research, Primary Care, Substance Use Disorder
Children, Adolescents, Adults, Seniors/Elderly
Male
This UBMD physician is also a member of the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, teaching the next generation of doctors and researching to advance care in WNY and beyond. Learn more about this physician's research and teaching activities, as well as view credentials, publications, professional involvement and more below.