About Us

Dr Derin Patel, MD is a Board Certified Internal Medicine physician with over 10 years of experience and the CEO of Hillside Primary Care. After graduating from Ross University School of Medicine, he completed his residency training at the University of Kentucky in Internal Medicine.

Dr. Patel practiced as a hospitalist in Owensboro, Kentucky, for 2 years and then in Evansville, Indiana, before moving to Texas and starting his own practice in 2018. His passion for educating his patients about their plan of care while taking the time to listen makes Dr. Patel a caring and compassionate physician.

Specialty
Board Certified Internal Medicine

Education
Undergraduate – University of Illinois at Chicago
Medical School – Ross University School of Medicine
Residency Training – University of Kentucky

Experience
Board Certified Internal Medicine physician with over 8 years of experience.

Blake Tokheim joined Hillside Medical Group in 2024 as Chief Executive Officer, where he leads corporate strategy, performance optimization and growth initiatives. Blake brings over 13 years of experience in strategic development, mergers and acquisitions and third-party partnerships, with a focus on physician groups and multisite healthcare services.

Before joining Hillside, Blake served as AVP of Business Development at InnovaCare Health, where he was instrumental in growing the company into a leading managed care platform with 47 clinics and over 200 providers. He spearheaded over 18 acquisitions across Florida and Texas, significantly expanding the company’s geographic footprint and patient base.

Prior to InnovaCare, Blake spent 7 years as a private equity investor and investment banker at The Riverside Company and KeyBanc Capital Markets.

Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, Blake holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Dayton.

Donna Marie Barry is a dedicated healthcare professional with over 35 years of experience in practice operations and human resources. In late 2024, she joined Hillside Medical Group as the Chief Operating Officer, following a successful career in various areas of healthcare in San Antonio. Donna thrives in dynamic environments, specializing in practice operations, business development, and program creation, with a strong focus on developing people to meet evolving challenges.

Her leadership approach is rooted in exceptional communication skills and a commitment to problem-solving and relationship building. Donna believes in nurturing talent and fostering growth, which has been a cornerstone of her career.

Originally from Amarillo, Texas, Donna moved to San Antonio at a pivotal moment in her life, marking the beginning of her healthcare journey. Her deep love for healthcare drives her to make a meaningful impact every day.

Donna takes immense pride in her two grown children, who were raised in Helotes and continue to inspire her. Outside of work, her family is her greatest joy. She has a passion for cooking and an appreciation for fine food and wine, which she loves to share with those she cares about.

Mrs. Durga Patel, CFO at Hillside Primary Care, holds an MBA specializing in Accounting from Devry University. She grew up in Chicago, IL, and earned her Bachelor’s in Chemistry from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Durga moved to San Antonio in 2017 and began her journey with Hillside Primary Care in 2018.

In her free time, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with her family.

Mr. Luis Rangel, who joined Hillside Primary Care in 2018 as the third employee, has been a dedicated member of the team ever since.

Luis, who joined as our practice manager, demonstrated exceptional leadership, which ultimately led to his promotion to the position of Director of Operations for our organization. He works closely with the management team and providers to oversee all aspects of the clinics, including daily operations, ensuring they run as smoothly as possible. Mr. Rangel, a certified EMTB, will graduate with his bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration in winter 2025. He also brings extensive experience in emergency medical services (EMS), emergency room (ER), and critical care healthcare administration. A native of Castroville, Texas, Luis contributes a wealth of leadership skills to his role at Hillside Medical Group. With his positive attitude and strong sense of humor, he leaves a lasting impression on everyone he meets while balancing his various responsibilities at our clinics.

Outside of work, Luis enjoys spending time with his family and his dog, Cinnamon.

Luis and his team are always happy to answer any questions you may have about our clinics, services, or related to management.

Samreen joined Hillside Primary Care in January 2020, bringing years of leadership and management experience gained since her move to San Antonio in 2012. She quickly progressed to lead manager and currently serves as our Director of Compliance and Training. Samreen has been instrumental in growing our practice, managing daily operations, and achieving our goals. Her proven ability to improve patient satisfaction, streamline workflows, manage staff, and ensure regulatory compliance reflects her strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills. She consistently drives continuous improvement in our healthcare service delivery.

Samreen holds an Associate degree in Management and Finance and recently completed a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management, demonstrating her commitment to the healthcare field. She is always happy to answer any questions you may have about our practice.

Outside of work, Samreen enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, cooking, and painting.

Dr. Lajja Patel is a Board Certified Internal Medicine Physician. She completed her medical education from Ross University School of Medicine in 2009 and completed her Residency training at the University of Kentucky in 2012. She has been a practicing Internal Medicine physician for the past thirteen years. Dr. Patel grew up in Chicago, Illinois, and now lives in San Antonio.

She has served as the Medical Director for several Hospitalist Programs in the past and currently serves as the Medical Director for MedCede Physician Services in San Antonio, Texas.

Dr. Suneeta Naik is a Family Practice Physician with over 30 years of experience. She has been providing care to the Universal City community for over 10 years. She takes a lot of pride in caring, educating, and providing compassionate, evidence-based care to her patients.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her daughters and grandchildren.

Specialty:
Family Practice

Experience:
Family Practice physician with over 30+ years of experience.

Book an appointment with Dr. Suneeta Naik, MD, at our Universal City Office at Hillside Primary Care.

Dr. Amita Kumar, MD, is a Canadian native and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine. Her clinical practice focuses on preventive medicine, specializing in treating postmenopausal symptoms, diabetes, hypertension, and eczema. Her patients praise her for her caring and compassionate nature.

Before joining Hillside Primary Care, Dr. Kumar gained experience in both private practice and academia.

Dr. Kumar enjoys spending time with her family and traveling in her spare time. She strives to balance healthy eating, exercise, and fun in her life and promotes this same philosophy to her patients.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Amita Kumar at Hillside Primary Care today and experience personalized, compassionate care. Call us now or visit our office to book your appointment!

Dr Mark Bentley, DO was born in Ohio and completed his undergrad from Shawnee State University. He obtained his medical degree from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, he then completed his Family Medicine residency with Kettering Health Network at Soin Hospital in Beavercreek, Ohio. Dr. Bentley is passionate about LGBT+ medicine and is excited to serve this community in San Antonio. Dr. Bentley thrives at providing high-quality patient care to the community. You can find him enjoying the outdoors, traveling, and art in his free time.

Call our Live Oak office today! and book your appointment with Dr. Bentley now. Don’t wait—your health deserves it!

Dr. Vamsi Garimella completed his undergraduate degree in Biology at Howard University. He further pursued medicine, earning his medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine. He completed his Internal Medicine Residency training at the University of Miami in Miami, FL, where he was able to grow his passion for primary care. Dr. Garimella is keen on emphasizing prevention in his patient population and is excited to serve the community in San Antonio. His hobbies include playing a variety of sports and engaging in outdoor activities

With over 35 years of experience, Dr. Vasquez specializes in primary healthcare and is dedicated to providing trusted, personalized medical care to patients throughout the San Antonio area.

Dr. Vasquez is known for his compassionate approach and commitment to improving the health and lives of his patients. He is excited to continue serving his community as part of our team.

Outside of his practice, Dr. Vasquez enjoys creating artwork and antique furniture pieces. Most importantly, he cherishes spending time with his family.

Dr. Sandra Rocha, DO, joined Hillside Primary Care in February 2025. She is Board Certified in Family Medicine and has been practicing for over 20 years.

Dr. Rocha recently relocated from El Paso to New Braunfels. She enjoys treating her patients for their physical and emotional needs, striving to reach a healthy balance between the two areas of health.

In her free time, Dr. Rocha enjoys a variety of crafts and spending time at home with her family.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Sandra Rocha at Hillside Primary Care, New Braunfels.

Dr. Ariana Lerma, DO is a proud San Antonio native who is fluent in Spanish and passionate about serving the community she calls home. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin and received her medical degree from the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her Family Medicine residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch.

Dr. Lerma is dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality comprehensive care that addresses the physical, emotional, and preventive health needs of her patients. She values building lasting relationships with her patients and creating a welcoming, supportive environment for individuals and families.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Lerma enjoys spending quality time with her family and cats. She is a proud mom to a baby boy and loves cooking with her husband, relaxing with a good movie, and going on outdoor adventures together. Since family is at the heart of everything she does, Dr. Lerma feels especially honored to practice family medicine. She is excited to be back in her hometown and looks forward to caring for and growing with the community she loves.

Dr Mary Baker, DNP, FNP-BC, is a Family Nurse Practitioner certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. With over 20 years of diverse nursing experience, she has worked in critical settings including high-risk labor and delivery, adult ICU, and emergency services. A veteran of the United States Air Force and native of Wisconsin, Mary holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from CarrollColumbia College, a Master of Science in Nursing from Kaplan University, and recently earned her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Baylor University Louise Herrington School of Nursing in 2023.

Mary is passionate about empowering patients through health literacy and preventive care based on evidence-based practices. She is committed to fostering patient engagement to achieve their healthcare goals. Beyond her professional pursuits, Mary enjoys quality time with her husband, two energetic children, and cherished extended family and friends.

Schedule your appointment with Dr Mary Baker at our Live Oak Office today! Experience personalized primary care that puts you first.

Dr. Anais Santoy, DNP, FNP-C, is a compassionate and dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2016 and completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2024 at UT Health Science Center in San Antonio. With eight years of experience as an RN across multiple specialties, she brings a well-rounded and patient-centered approach to her practice.

Anais was born in Mexico and is fluent in Spanish. She grew up in Chicago and relocated with her husband, a proud U.S. Marine, to San Antonio 13 years ago. Faith-driven and family-oriented, Anais values quality time with her husband and two children, stays active through running and thoroughly enjoys reading.

Committed to treating every patient like family, she is a strong advocate for health literacy and preventative care, fully embracing her calling to continue the healing ministry.

Mr. Roy Anderson is a US Army Veteran with over 20 years of nursing experience in emergency and critical care and has been a resident of Schertz for the past 10 years. He graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2020 as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

His experiences in nursing have reinforced the need for exceptional primary care, and he is thrilled to be part of a team dedicated to that goal. He enjoys time spent with his family and looks forward to taking care of the members of the community.

Schedule an appointment with Mr. Roy Anderson, FNP-C, at our Live Oak Office today.

Mrs. Karen Johnson is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). She earned her Master of Science in Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner certification from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in 2009. Before becoming a Nurse Practitioner, Karen worked as a critical care nurse for over 20 years with the Methodist Healthcare System in San Antonio. She also spent several years as a Family Nurse Practitioner at a Family Practice Clinic on the south side of San Antonio.

Karen has been a long-time resident of the Schertz/Cibolo area, with all three of her children graduating from Samuel Clemens High School. After many years of working in San Antonio, she chose to serve her local community by providing care to the residents of Schertz and Cibolo. Three years ago, she opened her own practice and is now merging with Hillside Primary Care Clinic to further expand her career in the area.

Karen’s mission is to improve and maintain the overall health of each patient by delivering high-quality care, promoting preventive measures, and emphasizing early disease detection. She has a deep passion for her patients and treats each one like family.

Ready to experience personalized, compassionate care? Schedule your appointment with Mrs. Karen Johnson at Hillside Primary Care today!

Ms. Florence Pugh is a Board-Certified Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of nursing experience. Born and raised in Michigan, she began her nursing career there and has since become a trusted provider in the healthcare community.

In 2017, Flo earned her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Madonna University in Livonia, Michigan. She decided to pursue an advanced practice degree to serve her community in a new capacity, inspired by her parents’ medical challenges and a desire to provide comprehensive care.

With a military career spanning over 30 years, Flo has transitioned from a medical supply specialist to a field medic and now a nurse. Her diverse background reflects her deep passion for healthcare and her commitment to caring for others.

Outside of work, Flo enjoys spending time with her family and friends, attending church, and playfully teasing her cat, Bernice.

Ready for compassionate care? Schedule an appointment with Flo today and experience the difference! Call us now or book your visit online.

Ms. Fatima Elmaanaoui is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner originally from Casablanca, Morocco. She moved to the USA in 2009 to pursue a career in healthcare. Fatima completed her undergraduate education at IHCC in Iowa and earned her master’s degree in nursing education from WGU. With 6 years of experience in intensive care, telemetry, and medical-surgical care, and an additional 2 years as a nurse educator, she decided to further her education and obtained her FNP degree from Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa.

As a primary care provider, Fatima is passionate about making a positive impact on her patients’ overall health by offering evidence-based and preventive care services. She is fluent in English, Spanish, Arabic, and French, allowing her to connect with a diverse range of patients.

In her free time, Fatima enjoys reading mystery books, traveling, and spending quality time with her loved ones.

Take the first step toward better health—schedule an appointment with Ms. Fatima Elmaanaoui today. Call our office or book online now!

Juan Carlos Perez, FNP-C, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Originally from Mexico, he now calls San Antonio, Texas, home. Juan earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2017 and spent three years working in long-term care. He then pursued a Master of Science in Nursing at The University of Texas at Arlington, graduating in 2022. He joined Hillside Primary Care in March 2023 to deliver culturally competent, holistic, and evidence-based care.

Outside of work, Juan enjoys quality time with his wife and two sons, Carlos and Thiago. He loves fishing, swimming, and hiking. On weekends, you can find him at his local church, engaging with the community. Juan is dedicated to supporting people through their most vulnerable moments.

Ready to experience compassionate, personalized care? Book an appointment with Juan Perez at Hillside Primary Care today. Contact us to schedule your visit and start your journey to better health!

Mrs. Abbi McDaniel is a Certified Nurse Practitioner originally from Evansville, Indiana. She obtained her undergraduate education at Ivy Tech Community College and the University of Southern Indiana and has worked in the hospital for over 6 years in the critical care and medical surgical areas. In 2017, she moved to northeast San Antonio with her family. Her passion has always been for preventative care which led her to pursue her Advanced Practice education through the University of Texas at Arlington. Abbi endeavors to provide quality, compassionate care as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Hillside Primary Care.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, being involved in church, and helping with her daughters scout troop.

Ms. Roselyn Omungo is a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner who is originally from Houston where she obtained her undergraduate nursing degree at Prairie View AM University. She has been in healthcare for 30 years, with experience in NICU, OBGYN, Cardiac care, and Flight Nursing. Her passion lies in primary care, specifically focusing on preventive care and patient education.

She had 3 children and resides in Hill County. She is passionate about serving the community, encouraging healthy living and womens health. In her free time she enjoys riding her motorcycle wine tasting and crafting.

Book an appointment with Ms. Roselyn Omungo today at Hillside Primary Care’s Austin office and take the first step toward personalized, proactive care!

Ms. Vanessa R Andrada is an NCCPA certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with a commitment to excellence in healthcare. A San Antonio, Texas native, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Medical Humanities from The University of Texas at San Antonio in 2018 and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from The University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio in 2023.

Vanessa is dedicated to preventive care and the promotion of healthy lifestyles through evidence-based medicine and places a strong emphasis on patient education. She ensures each patient receives personalized attention, addressing concerns and questions with diligence and care.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Vanessa enjoys quality time with family and friends, walks with her dog, Captain, and engages in hobbies such as journaling and learning the art of crochet.

Book your appointment with Ms. Vanessa R Andrada, PA-C, at our Live Oak Office at Hillside Primary Care today!

Khusboo Surtani is a Board Certified Physician Assistant. She was raised in Houston for 22 years and has always wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. She received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Houston and her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Khusboo’s goal is to provide high-quality, evidence-based care and improve the quality of life for all her patients. She is passionate about spending time during each appointment to educate and address all her patients’ needs and concerns. She is also fluent in Hindi and Sindhi.

In her free time, Khusboo loves making the most of her time with loved ones. She enjoys painting, knitting, crocheting, and spending time with her family and close friends.

Schedule your appointment with Ms. Khusboo Surtani, PA-C, at Hillside Primary Care’s Live Oak Office! Don’t miss out on top-notch care that fits your needs!

Ms. Priyanka Mooney is a US Army veteran and Board Certified Nurse Practitioner (FNP). She worked as an RN for 5 years in various acute care settings throughout Central Texas, settling in San Antonio in 2022. Her experiences at the bedside with patients and families inspired her to advance her education, obtaining her MSN from the University of Texas at Tyler in 2024. She strives to impact patients and strengthen their quality of life by providing compassionate, evidence-based care.

Outside of healthcare, she enjoys spending time with her 2 children, traveling, outdoor recreation, and trying new restaurants.

Emily Stansberry is a US Army Veteran and Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner originally from Orange County, California. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing through Seattle University and worked as an RN for 7 years in medical-surgical units, a step-down burn unit, and an internal medicine clinic. Gaining experience from bedside nursing inspired her to pursue her Master of Science in Nursing FNP Degree and have the opportunity to treat patients on another level. She is passionate about providing quality care and education to help patients effectively manage their overall health.

Outside of healthcare, Emily enjoys working out, dancing, and watching movies.

Call us now to schedule your visit! or Book your appointment with Emily Stansberry, FNP today at our Live Oak Office and experience primary care that truly makes a difference!

Mrs. Patricia Diaz De Leon, PA-C, is a Nationally Board Certified Physician Assistant originally from Corpus Christi, Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas, in 2002, followed by her Master’s of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of New England in Portland, Maine, in 2008. With over 12 years of experience in pediatrics, primary care, internal medicine, urgent care, and industrial medicine, Patricia has a deep passion for preventive and chronic care. A resident of the Schertz/Cibolo area for over five years, she is thrilled to be back with the Hillside Primary Care team, serving our valued patients.

Outside of her professional life, Patricia loves spending quality time with her family and friends, especially with her husband and two active children.

Ms. Joni Maxwell is a West Texas native but feels at home in San Antonio. She earned her undergraduate nursing degree from Middle Tennessee State University and has over a decade of clinical experience in emergency rooms, surgery, and pediatrics. Desiring a greater role in her patients’ health and wellness, Ms. Maxwell completed her Family Nurse Practitioner degree at Texas State University. She is an LGBTQ+ ally and strongly believes in addressing both the physical and socioeconomic determinants of health.

Outside of healthcare, she loves spending time with her family and pets. Her hobbies include reading, playing video games, and learning to sew.

Betty J. Thomas is a physician assistant at Hillside Immediate Care with over 14 years of experience in primary care, urgent care and long-term care. With a total of 32 years in the healthcare field, she brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to patient care.

She earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of North Dakota and her undergraduate in Nursing at Southwestern Adventist University.

She is a civilian member for the local chapter of Society of Army Physician Assistants.

PA Thomas is a proud Texan and originates from the Fort Worth, Texas area.

She is happily married with grown children and 2 grandchildren.

Ms. Elizabeth Long is a native Texan born and raised in Houston, Texas but has been living in San Antonio the last three years. Ms. Elizabeth Long is a graduate of South University in Savanna, Georgia. She graduated in 2017 and she is certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and has over 20 years of nursing experience with the majority of her time spent working in surgical services.

As a clinician she blends clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating health conditions with an added emphasis on disease prevention and health management. Elizabeth brings a comprehensive perspective and personal touch to health care.

When not at work, Elizabeth enjoys exploring the hill country and listening to live music.

Crystal Molina, FNP-C was born and raised in El Paso, TX where she completed her bachelor’s and master’s programs at the University of Texas at El Paso in 2014 and 2023. She is certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and has 1 year of experience as a nurse practitioner and over nine years of nursing experience, with the majority spent working in the critical care setting of emergency medicine in the region’s only level 1 trauma center, University Medical Center.

While caring for chronic patients in the emergency department, she realized the importance of preventative medicine and chronic disease management in an outpatient setting. Crystal knew she could make a positive impact as a family nurse practitioner by helping her patients stay out of the hospital and providing holistic care in the primary care setting.

Her goal as an FNP is to ensure her patients have all the information they need about their health so they can leave their appointments feeling confident about their care and prevent emergency room visits. She is also passionate about providing education to her patients on preventative measures.

When not at work, Crystal enjoys spending time at the gym, reading books, and watching all sports. She also enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.

Schedule an appointment with Crystal Molina, FNP-C today at Hillside Primary Care’s El Paso clinic!

I have over 10 years’ experience in patient care, graduated with my bachelor’s in nursing from UT Health Science Center San Antonio and my master’s for my FNP from UT Arlington. I am certified through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. I’m passionate about building relationships with my patients to empower them to take control of their health with a focus on preventative care and healthy living.

I’m a Christian, a wife, and a mom to two amazing kids. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family and being involved with my kid’s sports. I look forward to serving my community through Hillside Primary Care.

Ms. Emily Gonzales is a board-certified nurse practitioner with a strong background in women’s health. She obtained her Bachelor’s in nursing at Texas Tech University, where she developed a deep passion for patient care. Her nursing experience further fueled her desire to pursue advanced practice, leading her to enroll in the Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner at Texas Woman’s University. Emily is dedicated to providing compassionate and high-quality care, always striving to make a positive impact on the lives of her patients.
Outside of work she enjoys reading, working out, traveling, and spending quality time with her loved ones.

I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of healthcare experience. I originally come from Iran, where I completed my undergraduate Nursing degree at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. In 2015, I relocated to the United States and pursued further education, earning my Nurse Practitioner degree from the University of Phoenix, Arizona. My career journey has equipped me with a wealth of experience in various healthcare settings, including critical care, trauma surgery, and outpatient clinics. I am committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle and ensuring that patients who visit my practice receive comprehensive answers to their questions and have their concerns addressed with the utmost care and attention. I currently reside in Georgetown, Texas, with my spouse. I am bilingual, fluent in both English and Persian, and have a deep passion for serving the community. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to advocate for healthy living and to make sure that every patient who comes for an appointment leaves feeling heard, understood, and well-cared for.

I am a certified nurse practitioner (FNP-C) originally from Nigeria. I completed my undergraduate study at the university of Rhode Island and have worked with several hospitals including the veteran Affairs hospital as an acute care RN for 9 years.

In 2019. I moved to San Antonio with my family and my passion for providing quality preventative care and chronic disease management led me to pursue an Advanced practice program at the University of Texas, at Arlington.

As a family nurse practitioner I am dedicated to providing quality and compassionate care for my patients here at hillside primary care.

Outside of work, I enjoy time with my husband and two kids. I also engage in volunteering to cook for the homeless community monthly.

Diane Turner, APRN, FNP-BC, began her nursing career in 2007, specializing in medical-surgical nursing before transitioning to gastroenterology at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio. Witnessing the impact of inadequate primary care on patients, she decided to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Texas at El Paso, graduating in 2019. Since then, Diane has worked in both internal medicine and family practice. She is a certified medical examiner for the Department of Transportation and is an active member of the Texas Nurse Practitioners and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Diane is passionate about preventive care and committed to saving lives. She finds great fulfillment in meeting new patients, learning about their unique experiences, challenges, and goals, and personalizing their care to meet their needs.

Outside of her professional life, Diane enjoys spending time with her husband, two sons, dog, two donkeys, and chickens. She is actively involved in her church and loves exploring new destinations around the world.

Anuradha Gurram, FNP-C, is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a steadfast commitment to preventive and patient-centered care. In 2024, she completed a Post-Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Texas at Arlington. Ms. Gurram is originally from India and relocated to the United States in 2007. With two decades of extensive experience, she has worked in telemetry, pre-operative, and medical-surgical settings within hospital environments. As a Nurse Practitioner, she is dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care and is passionate about promoting comprehensive wellness.

Ms. Gurram enjoys gardening and traveling with her family in her leisure time.

I am an experienced and dedicated Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) professional with dual certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP). I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from South University in Tampa, Florida, and my MSN from the University of South Alabama. Currently, I am working toward completing my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Since beginning my nursing career in 2018, I have had the privilege of serving diverse patient populations in both outpatient specialties and inpatient care settings. This experience has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of patient care across the lifespan, with a focus on delivering high-quality, compassionate care in a variety of clinical environments.

As a member of the Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society of Nursing, I am committed to advancing the nursing profession through continued education, research, and leadership. I am passionate about improving patient outcomes and contributing to the ongoing evolution of healthcare. My clinical expertise, combined with a strong dedication to nursing excellence, drives my commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.

Outside of work, I am a proud military spouse and embrace the dynamic lifestyle it entails. I enjoy spending time with my two boys, exploring the outdoors, and traveling whenever possible. I am also passionate about giving back to the community and am actively involved in various outreach programs.

Samantha Ann-Logue Esman is an ANCC board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over sixteen years of healthcare experience. She started her journey working as a Nurse Practitioner in 2025. Prior to this, she dedicated twelve years of nursing to critical care. Having spent over ten of those years at Brooke Army Medical Center in the Surgical Trauma Intensive Care Unit, as well as, the Post Anesthesia Care Unit.

Samantha attended the University of the Incarnate Word for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and the University of Texas at Arlington for her Master of Science in Nursing, becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Samantha desires to help people prevent chronic conditions by educating patients on preventative measures, healthy lifestyle choices, self-advocacy, and accountability. She believes in open communication, kindness, and mutual respect, while providing a comfortable, caring, family-like environment, where patients can freely express their thoughts and concerns. She recognizes the importance of patients understanding their own disease processes and treatment plan in order to effectively manage them and improve their quality of life.

In her free time, Samantha loves spending quality time with her husband and two boys. Faith and family are near and dear to her heart. You can also find her attending church, playing soccer, reading a good book, attempting to grow her own vegetables, exploring new places, and relaxing.

Sidney Villa is a dedicated nurse practitioner and a proud San Antonio native. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from the University of the Incarnate Word and went on to receive a Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas at Arlington.

With a strong foundation in patient-centered care, Sidney is passionate about promoting wellness and building trusting relationships with patients and their families.

Outside of work, Sidney enjoys exploring local trails with her dog, and spending quality time with family watching the latest movies.

I am a Texas Tech University alumnus for both my undergraduate nursing degree and my master’s in nursing specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner. I have been practicing family medicine in San Antonio since 2022. My passion is specifically in diabetes management and other metabolic disorders along with healthy weight programs. San Antonio is such a great place to practice with the many opportunities to stay active and healthy and a great sense of community. I want to continue the community support of those in San Antonio through Hillside Primary Care. I am an active member of Texas Nurse Practitioners and stay updated in the latest standards of care that will benefit my patients. I am also proficient in speaking in Spanish.

Before living in San Antonio, I lived in Virginia, Florida, and Dallas. I have lived and worked in San Antonio since 2012.

In my home life, I have a very loving and supportive husband, 2 dogs: a beagle and a black labrador. We enjoy road trips, camping, and hiking together. I also enjoy yoga, biking, reading, and homemade crafts like crochet and sewing.

Ms. Christy Ponce is a board-certified nurse practitioner born and raised in El Paso Texas. She completed her bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas at El paso in 2001 and her Master of Science In nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2024. She is well rounded with 22 years of experience of nursing. Her areas of focus have been ER, ICU, surgery and administration. She is passionate about educating patients, giving empathetic care and providing quality service. During her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her 13-year-old twins, traveling and working out.

Liza Schwarz, APRN, FNP-BC is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centered care that emphasizes the connection between lifestyle, nutrition, and long-term wellness. A graduate of the University of Texas at El Paso, Liza is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and brings a well-rounded, evidence-based approach to every patient encounter.

Before becoming a nurse practitioner, Liza spent 10 years as an analyst with the FBI, where she developed advanced skills in critical thinking, data analysis, and strategic planning. This unique professional background strengthens her clinical decision-making and allows her to approach complex patient care with a sharp analytical lens and a commitment to uncovering root causes.

Liza is especially passionate about helping patients make sustainable lifestyle changes and believes in treating the whole person—not just the symptoms.

Outside of clinical practice, she enjoys staying physically active and spending time with her husband, family, and their two beloved pit bulls.

Ms. Emily Sun is a Board Certified Physician Assistant. She received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from The University of Texas at Austin and her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She lived in Austin most of her life, but is now happy to call San Antonio home. Emily believes the best care begins with compassion and respect. She is dedicated to providing patient-centered care, and strives to make a positive impact in her patients’ lives.

In her free time, Emily enjoys working out, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. She also speaks Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin Chinese.

Schedule an appointment today with Ms. Emily Sun, PA-C, at Hillside Primary Care Live Oak!

Christen Richardson is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C). Raised in Killeen, Texas, she has long felt a calling to serve others—a commitment that is evident both in her medical practice and her military service. She believes in treating the whole person, not just the illness. She strives to create a welcoming and supportive environment for every patient, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their healthcare journey.

Christen received her Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Spanish from the University of North Texas and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. She is proud to serve in the Texas Army National Guard, an experience that has significantly shaped her character, resilience, and leadership.

Outside of medicine, Christen enjoys staying active through CrossFit, exploring new places through travel, and spending quality time with her family. She is excited to be a part of the primary care team and looks forward to serving the community.

Book an Appointment with Christen Richardson, PA-C, at Hillside for care that puts your well-being first.

Mrs. Teresa M. Beard, DNP, FNP-C was born and raised in a military family, ultimately planting her roots in San Antonio, TX. She started as an LVN at St. Philip’s College and worked her way up to eventually earn her Doctorate of Nursing Practice and Family Nurse Practitioner in 2018 from The University of the Incarnate Word. Her background in nursing includes both long term and critical care, igniting her passion to provide excellent preventative and primary care. She is a compassionate healthcare provider who is dedicated to her patients.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her three children, 20, 13, and 5. She also enjoys attending concerts with her husband.

Sydney English, FNP-C was born in Killeen, Texas as the daughter of an Air Force pilot. She was raised in both Schertz and San Antonio, Texas. She completed her bachelor’s program at Texas A&M University- Health Science Center in College Station Bryan, Texas. She completed her masters program through Texas Woman’s University in 2025. She is certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners with 5 years of nursing experience, with those years spent working in the acute and critical care setting at University Hospital-Medical Center, and in the operating room at University Hospital, North Central Baptist, and Christus Santa Rosa Hospital.

While caring for patients with chronic conditions both bedside and in the operating room, she realized the importance of preventative care and chronic disease management in an outpatient setting to prevent the development and progression of disease which can lead to avoidable hospital admissions and procedural interventions. Sydney knows that, as a family nurse practitioner, she can use her previous patient care experience and her education to improve the health outcomes of her patients in the primary care setting.
Sydney places great importance on her role as a patient educator, to ensure that her patients have all of their questions answered and understand their disease processes in order to feel comfortable making the necessary steps to improve their health along with her guidance and agreed upon treatment plan.

When not at work, Sydney enjoys spending time at the gym, walking outdoors, watching football games and reality TV shows, as well as playing video games. Most of all she values spending time with her husband and her daughter.