A Message From Our Program Director

Hello from someone who was trained right here in the Central Valley! Thank you for your interest in our family medicine residency program. I know this is a great place to learn and grow and am delighted to share what we’re building here as well as some of the successes we’ve already had.

We’re dedicated to providing an enriching academic and clinical learning environment that will successfully prepare you for independent practice in a variety of settings. We are confident that through your work in residency and beyond, you will contribute to advances in healthcare and enhance the health and overall well-being of people in your communities.

I have had the honor and privilege of learning from many amazing physicians in this community over the past 12 years. I have personally witnessed the self-sacrifice, dedication, and passion that it takes to make an excellent faculty mentor. We’ve assembled a team full of qualified physicians and role models with extensive teaching experience who are ready to prioritize your learning and growth. We are committed to supporting residents who are self-motivated and curious about their education by building in regular and consistent feedback and fostering a culture of psychological safety.

I know the importance of having a wide range of learning experiences during training that accurately reflect the full spectrum of opportunities you will have in your futures. We emphasize a family-centered, comprehensive, and full-scope learning experience during residency, so you’re prepared for the career of your dreams. We incorporate scholarly work, advocacy, and community service into your schedules so that you can grow personally and professionally while connecting with this community in a more meaningful and fulfilling way.

We welcome your questions about the program and look forward to having input from our inaugural class of interns! This is an exciting time to be starting your family medicine journey in Modesto. Please reach out with any questions you have. Again, on behalf of our entire faculty and the Memorial Medical Center administration, thank you for your interest in our program. I look forward to meeting you.

Sincerely,
RaeLeigh C. Payanes, M.D.
Program Director, Family Medicine Residency