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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 4h

We're highlighting Dr. Arun Karlamangla, who recently received IIT Kharagpur's Distinguished Alumnus Award, one of the institution's highest alumni honors! Learn more about his journey from engineering to medicine and the mentors who shaped his career: uclahs.fyi/4ymQY3v

Three individuals stand on a stage during an award presentation ceremony. One individual presents an open framed certificate to another while a third stands beside them. All three wear ceremonial stoles featuring an institutional emblem and anniversary branding. A large screen and event backdrop with decorative designs are visible behind them.

A certificate from the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur is displayed on a decorative scroll. The document announces the “Distinguished Alumnus Award 2026” awarded to “Dr. K. Sreenivasamurthy Arun” and includes several paragraphs describing professional accomplishments and contributions. The IIT Kharagpur seal appears near the top center, with signatures from institute officials at the bottom.

A framed certificate from the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur is displayed against a light background. The document includes text in Hindi and English and features the institute seal near the top. The certificate reads, “Distinguished Alumnus Award 2026 to Dr. K. Sreenivasamurthy Arun for his outstanding achievements and contributions.” Signatures from institute officials appear at the bottom of the certificate.

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 10h

"Focus on finding your passion and following that through residency." In our latest Mentor Shoutout, Dr. Alex Talishinsky reflects on the guidance and encouragement he received from Dr. Olujimi Ajijola during residency and how that mentorship helped shape his decision to stay at UCLA for fellowship

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 15/10/2026

Congratulations to Kisa Hilliard on receiving the Paul Torrens Scholarship from the UCLA Health Policy and Management Alumni Association! The scholarship honors Kisa's commitment to public health, healthcare leadership and evidence-based practice. Read more: uclahs.fyi/3VxZb70

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 14/10/2026

We're highlighting Brenda Sanz, whose behind-the-scenes work helps recruit, onboard and support the faculty who make hospital medicine possible. Her efforts help create a culture where colleagues feel connected, valued and supported. Read more: uclahs.fyi/46JZTAz

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 14/10/2026

We're highlighting Drs. Jeffrey Fujimoto and Hengchen Dai, whose cross-campus collaboration earned the Behavioral Science & Policy Association's Best Publication Award! Learn about their research on using behavioral science to improve vaccination rates: uclahs.fyi/4egsQrM

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 14/10/2026

In the UCLA Department of Medicine, innovators are supported at every stage of their career. This week, Dr. Abel highlights a few whose work shows the impact of supporting discovery, mentorship and new ideas throughout the career journey. Read it here: uclahs.fyi/47eqMgk

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 13/10/2026

Shining the spotlight on Jagrup Kaur, who recently completed UCLA's Leadership Development Program for Emerging Leaders. Learn how she's helping grow UCLA's Companion Care Program while supporting older adults, caregivers and volunteers across UCLA Health: uclahs.fyi/4dRvvbg

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 12/10/2026

Congrats to Dr. Alejandra Casillas on a historic honor! The Harvard College Class of 2001 has named Dr. Casillas its Chief Marshal of Alumni, making her the first Latina to serve in the role. Read about her journey and what this recognition means to her: uclahs.fyi/4ywIJlZ

Two attendees pose together at a formal event in a wood-paneled hall. One attendee wears a black outfit with a red fascinator hat, red ribbon rosette, event badge and glasses. The other attendee wears a gray suit, white shirt and red patterned tie.

An individual waves from a stage during an outdoor ceremony attended by a large crowd. The individual wears a black outfit with a red fascinator hat and event badge. Rows of attendees and red banners are visible beneath tall trees

A group of attendees poses for a photo inside a wood-paneled hall with ornate architectural details. Many wear event badges, red ribbon rosettes and formal attire, while several wear top hats or decorative hats. The group is arranged in multiple rows in front of a carved wooden wall with portraits and sculptures visible in the background.

An individual stands on a lawn beside large white letters spelling “HARVARD.” The individual wears a black outfit, a red fascinator hat, sunglasses and an event badge. A red brick building and trees are visible in the background.

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 12/10/2026

"While we may withdraw life-sustaining interventions, we never withdraw care." After helping care for a patient during a difficult hospitalization, intern Dr. Conor Rork reflects on compassion, presence and supporting families through moments of grief: uclahs.fyi/3V8nXdI

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 09/10/2026

Building community on day one! More than 40 hospitalists join the UCLA Department of Medicine each year. Learn how the UCLA Hospital Medicine Onboarding Program helps new faculty feel prepared, connected and supported from their very first shift: uclahs.fyi/4xW6Aup

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 09/10/2026

Shining the spotlight on Drs. Erin Dowling and Wendy Simon, who are helping transform inpatient care through quality improvement and system-wide change. Learn how their work is improving care for patients while supporting the teams who deliver it: uclahs.fyi/3VDwGop

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 08/10/2026

The hospitalists impact goes beyond the bedside. DoM hospitalists help educate and inspire the next generation of physician leaders. Meet the educators who are teaching residents how to navigate complex inpatient care while modeling curiosity and teamwork. uclahs.fyi/4xIFerr

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 08/10/2026

Compassion, dignity and respect are at the heart of the patient-centered culture our hospitalists foster each day. We shine the spotlight on Dr. Aram Namavar, whose care left a meaningful impression on one family as they navigated a difficult hospitalization. Learn more: uclahs.fyi/4rByzy0

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

It sometimes feels like we're always in award season in the UCLA Department of Medicine! This week, Dr. Abel highlights a few of the recent honors and professional development achievements earned by faculty and staff across the DoM. Read the newsletter: uclahs.fyi/4yIxw1K

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

We're shining the spotlight on Tricia Barrow, whose thoughtful planning, organization and communication help make residency recruitment season a success! Learn how she helps applicants feel welcomed and supported throughout the recruitment process here: uclahs.fyi/4dMDHte

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Compassion in action. After receiving a heartfelt letter from a patient's family, internal medicine resident Dr. Joanne Newens reflected on the power of human connection and the small moments that can make a difference during a hospital stay. Read the story: uclahs.fyi/4dOvWmB

Three individuals pose for a selfie in an office setting. One person wears blue scrubs, another wears a striped shirt and lanyard and a third wears a dark blouse while making a peace sign.

Ten individuals pose inside a clinic space alongside a miniature therapy horse and a small dog. Several participants wear scrubs or hospital ID badges, and one person holds a small keyboard. The miniature horse wears a blue blanket labeled “Mini Therapy Horses.”

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

Our incredible internal medicine chief residents are playing a key role in recruitment season, helping applicants get an authentic look at life in the DoM. Learn how their unique perspective helps future trainees determine whether UCLA is the right fit: uclahs.fyi/4hnXAbn

Ten individuals pose for a formal portrait indoors in front of large windows with a blurred green outdoor background. The group is arranged in three rows, with some seated and others standing behind them. All wear coordinated blue denim jackets or denim shirts paired with white tops and blue jeans.

Three individuals in business casual attire pose in an office holding baskets and bowls filled with assorted snacks and candy. String lights, computer workstations and a meeting table are visible in the background.

Four individuals pose together at a social event. One person holds a plate of food while the group stands in front of a busy indoor dining area with exposed ductwork, hanging lights, televisions and other guests visible in the background.

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

Research news! A multi-institutional team led by Dr. Tamer Sallam has received a NIDDK High Impact Interdisciplinary Science Award to investigate overlooked genetic variations that may help explain why some people are more susceptible to diabetes & obesity: uclahs.fyi/3V9UTT6

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

Residency and fellowship recruitment season is well underway across the UCLA Department of Medicine! We caught up with our program leaders who shared what today's applicants value most, from mentorship and career development to culture and community: uclahs.fyi/47bJVzc

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Great news! Drs. John Mafi, Joann Elmore and Alex Bui have been awarded a five-year $25 million NIH grant to establish a new UCLA-led national center focused on evaluating AI technologies for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Read the full story: uclahs.fyi/4cIfuEb

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

The new UCLA Department of Medicine Research Website is now live! Explore research news, connect with faculty through a searchable researcher directory and discover training and career development opportunities across the department. Learn more here: uclahs.fyi/3UNcrV6

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

When patients need us the most, our hospital medicine teams are there. This week, Dr. Abel highlights the hospitalists who lead inpatient care, train future physicians and provide compassionate care during some of life's most challenging moments. Read more: uclahs.fyi/4hRR2Tu

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

Congrats to Dr. Reza Abdi who received an NIH Program Project Grant to advance immune tolerance in organ transplantation. The project will investigate new approaches to improving transplant outcomes while reducing the need for lifelong immunosuppression: uclahs.fyi/46khpLB

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

Our research community is strong! This year's first DoM Community Faculty Meeting brought research faculty and department leaders together to celebrate recent successes, discuss funding trends and explore new initiatives supporting our research mission: uclahs.fyi/4xWXy16

A group photo shows approximately 65 faculty and staff gathered inside an event space. Participants stand in several rows and many wear UCLA Health ID badges and business or business-casual attire. The room features concrete columns, large windows, wood-paneled ceiling accents and overhead lighting.

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Highlighting Dr. Arpana Church, who has received a $4 million NIH grant to study how probiotics influence communication between the gut microbiome and the brain in people with obesity. The findings could inform new approaches to obesity treatment. Read more: uclahs.fyi/4AjFcJl

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Congrats to Dr. Jay Patel on his appointment as medical director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at UCLA West Valley Medical Center! He will help lead the continued growth of the cardiac catheterization laboratory and STEMI program. Learn more: uclahs.fyi/4rddJVe

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

NEW GRANT ALERT! Dr. Melissa Lechner has received a $7 million NIH grant to advance treatment for immunotherapy-related diabetes. The funding will support the first clinical trial designed to treat this rare but serious complication of cancer immunotherapy: uclahs.fyi/3TuiFJ2

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

Congratulations to Dr. Priscilla Hsue on securing a $6.3 million NHLBI grant! The funding will support a multicenter trial investigating how GLP-1 therapies may reduce inflammation and cardiovascular disease risk in people living with HIV. Learn more here: uclahs.fyi/4xTZJlR

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Pleased to announce that Dr. Gregory Sonnenberg has been appointed director of the UCLA Center for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease where he will lead efforts to advance discoveries in immunology, microbiome science and digestive diseases. Learn more: uclahs.fyi/4AdZEex

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Congratulations to Drs. Tannaz Moin and O. Kenrik Duru! They've secured NIH funding to establish the Southern California Center for Diabetes Translation Research, the only newly funded center joining the NIH-supported national network. Learn more here: uclahs.fyi/46suxhF

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Recruiting the best! This week, Dr. Abel shares perspectives on residency and fellowship recruitment, the people who make it possible behind the scenes and the lasting impact of welcoming outstanding trainees to the UCLA Department of Medicine. Learn more: uclahs.fyi/4y8rDe0

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Proud to announce that the Transplantation Society has awarded Dr. Gabriel Danovitch its highest honor, the prestigious Medawar Prize, in recognition of his contributions to kidney transplantation through clinical care, scholarship, mentorship and advocacy: uclahs.fyi/4xi8QM1

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Welcome to Dr. David Artis who has been appointed the inaugural chief of UCLA's new Division of Experimental Medicine. Dr. Artis is an internationally recognized immunologist whose work has reshaped our understanding of immune function and disease. Read more: uclahs.fyi/4rectkZ

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Incredible news! Dr. Gregg Fonarow has received the 2026 Heart Failure Society of America Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his decades of leadership and contributions to heart failure research, quality improvement and patient care. Learn more: uclahs.fyi/4xQlovy

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

The Cultivating Interest in Research Careers (CIRC) Program is inspiring the next generation of physician-scientists! Learn how Dr. O. Kenrik Duru and faculty mentors are introducing students to careers in biomedical research and academic medicine: uclahs.fyi/4hczeCl

A group of approximately 15 students and program leaders pose outdoors on tiered steps in front of a landscaped area with large palm trees and greenery. Most participants hold certificates with a blue-and-gold design and wear name badges, while several wear business or business-casual attire.

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

Wellness Champion Spotlight! Dr. Linda Vien understands the importance of creating space for well-being amid the demands of a busy clinical practice. Learn why she's passionate about helping faculty establish work boundaries and address burnout here: uclahs.fyi/4goOjQY

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

"For me, balance is really important." In this first installment of our Mentor Shoutout series, internal medicine resident Dr. Leigh Kinney shares how Dr. Mina Sedrak's mentorship has helped her navigate career decisions and prepare for fellowship. Check it out!

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

A recent wellness lunch at the West LA VA brought trainees and colleagues together outside of their usual clinical responsibilities, creating space to recharge and strengthen the sense of community that fosters a positive training experience. Learn more: uclahs.fyi/45LOGik

Six trainees sit around an outdoor patio table in a park-like setting enjoying pizza during a gathering. Paper plates with pizza slices, reusable water bottles, soft drinks and a Jenga game are arranged on the table. Several attendees wear scrubs or clinical attire and ID badges.

Three trainees pose together outdoors at a park gathering. One holds a bag of Café Du Monde beignet mix, another holds a bag of buffalo-flavored snacks and a scratcher, and the third holds a bag of candy and a scratcher. All three wear ID badges and two are dressed in clinical scrubs. The photo was taken on a sunny day near a canopy tent, with grass, trees and park benches visible in the background.

A group of trainees gather on a grassy lawn in a park during an outdoor social event. Attendees sit in folding camp chairs arranged in a large circle beneath tall palm trees and shade trees. Several people hold plates of food while others chat in small groups.

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Shining the spotlight on Dr. Bethlehem Michael for her contribution to research on eating patterns in patients with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. The study highlights why clinicians should look beyond gluten avoidance alone. Read more: uclahs.fyi/4qvs0fG

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Over $60 million in research funding has been awarded to the UCLA Department of Medicine faculty in the past two months! This week, Dr. Abel highlights several recent NIH-funded projects advancing AI, diabetes, HIV, obesity, transplantation and more: uclahs.fyi/4hq44r8

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Meet our new DMPG president, Dr. Stephen Vampola! We caught up with Dr. Vampola, who shared his vision for strengthening connections across UCLA Health's clinical network, supporting engagement and fostering a strong departmental culture. Read more: uclahs.fyi/46DFNaR

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Big congrats to Dr. Joann Elmore on receiving the American Cancer Society Research Professor Award! The award recognizes her contributions to cancer research and will support her work advancing the safe, effective and equitable use of AI in cancer care: uclahs.fyi/4r6byDe

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Wellness Champion Spotlight! Dr. Rushi Parikh shares his thoughts on why fully disconnecting from work can be challenging for physicians and why making time to recharge is essential for long-term well-being. Catch the full story here: uclahs.fyi/4x0TviX

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

We’re highlighting Dr. Mohammad Keykhaei, whose recent publication shows how comprehensive heart failure therapy may help reduce hospitalization costs while also improving care for patients with reduced ejection fraction. Learn more here: uclahs.fyi/4xhbVwF

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

We're proud to recognize and celebrate our 2026-27 UCLA Department of Medicine Wellness Champions! We thank them for their dedication to fostering connection, supporting well-being and strengthening community throughout the department. Learn more: uclahs.fyi/4y707NB

A graphic features 13 professional headshots arranged in three rows against a dark blue background. Each portrait includes the physician’s name and division beneath the photo. Featured wellness champions are Annie R. Zhang, MD (GIM-East/West Medicine); Shira Peress, MD (GIM-Hospitalist); Mariam A. Soni, MD (GIM-Hospitalist); Pauline Yi, MD (GIM-Med-Peds); Shannon R. Bell, DO (GIM-Palliative Care); Alina Katsman, MD (GIM-Primary Care); Bryan Medina, MD (GIM-Primary Care); Daniel Puneky, MD (GIM-Primary Care); Jordyn Silverstein, MD, MSc (Hematology-Oncology); Ashlyn N. Sakona, MD (Infectious Diseases); Ramya R. Malchira, MD (Nephrology); Linda P. Vien, MD (Pulmonary & Critical Care); and Marian Kaldas, MD (Rheumatology).

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

From groundbreaking research to lifetime achievement awards and international recognition, our DoM faculty continue to make a remarkable impact across medicine and science. Read all about their important work in this week's message from Dr. Abel: uclahs.fyi/4xNmkRc

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Last month, new UCLA Department of Medicine faculty came together to begin the 26-27 DMPG Physician Onboarding Program, a yearlong initiative designed to support professional growth, connection and success. Check out highlights from the first session here: uclahs.fyi/4gJaKzg

Approximately 30 physicians participate in an onboarding session in a conference room. They are seated at round tables with notebooks, printed materials, coffee cups and water glasses. A presentation slide at the front of the room reads “Icebreaker,” and an attendee stands between the tables speaking to the group. Large windows, framed wall art and overhead lighting are visible. Several attendees wear name badges and the photo captures an interactive group discussion.

Four physicians participate in a small-group discussion during an onboarding event in a conference room. Two attendees stand and converse while holding beverages, and two others are seated at a round table listening. Conference name badges, notebooks, water bottles and meeting materials are visible on the table.

A physician stands at a lectern delivering a presentation during an onboarding event at the Luskin Conference Center. A projection screen beside the podium displays a slide outlining several Department of Medicine initiatives, including health equity training and care, small grants innovation awards, women in medicine, gender health, the First Gen Program and community engagement efforts. Attendees seated at round tables listen to the presentation.

Physicians participate in a roundtable discussion during an onboarding event in a conference room. Participants seated around a large round table wear conference name badges and review meeting materials, notebooks and handouts. Table signs identify discussion groups including “Central Coast” and “Northwest Region.” Pens, coffee cups, water glasses and notepads are arranged on the table, while attendees engage in conversation in a collaborative workshop setting.

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Looking beyond the scale. In Dr. Aarti Kumar’s new publication, she and her colleagues found that changes in body fat may be a more meaningful predictor of long-term cardiovascular outcomes than BMI alone. Read more: uclahs.fyi/3SR6eXq

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Wellness Champion Spotlight! Dr. Shira Mati Peress tells us how the relationships she built during residency helped her rediscover joy in medicine and why creating opportunities for colleagues to connect remains central to her approach to wellness: uclahs.fyi/3SEoFi4

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UCLA Department of Medicine @domucla.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

New research from Dr. Yousif Arif shows that neighborhood zip code can predict whether patients complete follow-up colonoscopy after an abnormal colorectal cancer screening test. Learn more here: uclahs.fyi/4hRQP3g

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