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Joan is a fun-loving, life-living Nurse Practitioner who practices what she preaches. Whether it's golfing, hiking, surfing or some other activity, you will always see her bright smile lighting the way! She is an expert at helping people get out of pain and into the flow of a joy-filled life. Her compassionate, gentle yet tough-love approach give every patient a one-in-a-million experience. She is a mom, a grandma, and even a homeschooling veteran. Life is an adventure for Joan, and she can't wait to help you get back to the life you want to live. Take a Mulligan, Joan will show you how!

Pam Schillar, a highly experienced Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) relocated to Cave
Creek, AZ from Sandpoint, ID, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to
providing exceptional anesthesia care.

Pam grew up on a wheat farm in Ritzville, WA, a small community in Eastern Washington. She earned
her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from Eastern Washington University in May 1981 and began her career
as an RN at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, WA, initially working on a surgical floor. Pam later
transitioned to the Cardio-thoracic ICU, where she specialized in recovering heart and lung patients.
During this time, she had the opportunity to work closely with CRNAs who specialized in heart and lung
anesthesia, sparking her interest in furthering her education in this field.

In January 1991, Pam joined the United States Air Force as a commissioned officer. After two years in
the Medical ICU, she was accepted into the USAF CRNA program. The Air Force sent Pam to the
University of Texas Health Science Center, where she earned her Master’s Degree in Nursing with a
focus on anesthesia in 1996. Pam has been board certified since October 1996, and over the years, she
has gained extensive experience providing anesthesia services to patients of all ages in a variety of
settings.

For the past 19 years, Pam worked at Bonner General Hospital, a critical access hospital in Sandpoint, ID,
where she provided anesthesia care in a busy surgical services department. Pam enjoyed serving a tight-
knit community, caring for multiple generations of families. However, after years of long winters, Pam
decided to relocate to the Valley, a place she has always loved.

Pam is excited about the opportunities for both personal and professional growth in Arizona. In her free
time, she enjoys golfing, hiking, and taking in the breathtaking desert landscapes and sunsets. She also
enjoys the vibrant culture of the area, from local sports teams and spring training to excellent
restaurants and art and music festivals.

Jessica is a board certified Physician Assistant. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry from the University of Sioux Falls, followed by her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Union College in 2009. She spent over 8 years in the field of Family Medicine prior to specializing in Pain Management and Rehabilitation. Her time spent in primary care was essential to develop her understanding of acute and chronic pain, including its potentially debilitating effects. Jessica believes in building trusting relationships with her patients, and does this by listening and providing a comprehensive plan of care. She believes in teaching and empowering patients to make lifestyle changes, in conjunction with medical treatments, to take control of their pain. 

Kathy Nafisi, FNP-C, APRN, MSN is Arizona board certified Nurse practitioner with 20 plus years of experience in health care. Kathy Nafisi, FNP-C not only is caring, compassionate health care professional but she believes in functional medicine and incorporate multi-facetted expertise to provide optimal and preventive care to her patient population. Kathy Nafisi, FNP-C has wealth of knowledge in preventive health care, chronic health conditions, chronic pain management/ addiction, weight loss, ADHD, sexual health, Male Erectile dysfunction, hormone replacement therapy, women’s health, hair loss, nutrition, and supplements.

Melissa Alaimo, PA-C, is a nationally certified physician assistant at Grayhawk Medical Group, PLLC, serving patients throughout the Scottsdale and Greater Phoenix, Arizona area. 

Melissa is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. Born in Chicago and raised in Arizona, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Northern Arizona University. Before attending PA school, she gained valuable experience working in various areas of medicine for three years, which strengthened her passion for helping others improve their health and well-being.

Melissa went on to earn her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies from Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she also earned her national certification. With a strong background in fitness, nutrition, and preventive health, she is committed to helping patients understand their options and take proactive steps toward achieving their wellness goals.

When she’s not caring for patients, Melissa enjoys hiking in the mountains, traveling, and spending quality time with her loved ones. Her approachable nature and dedication to personalized care make her a trusted partner in supporting her patients’ overall health.

With over two decades of clinical experience and a distinguished career as a Navy Medical Officer, Dr. Bragg brings both expertise and heart to her work in Family Medicine.  A proud graduate of Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in Shreveport, she brings years of experience and training in all aspects of primary care, with a special focus on preventive care and chronic disease management.  Dr. Bragg takes a deeply compassionate approach to medicine, treating every patient with the same attentiveness she would offer a member of her own family—listening with respect, treating with skill, and always striving to understand the person behind the symptoms.

Guided by the belief that medicine is a partnership, Dr. Bragg empowers patients to take an active role in their healthcare journey—serving not just as a physician, but as a trusted guide and advocate in helping patients navigate the often-complex healthcare landscape, stay proactive in their health maintenance, and find comfort and clarity during times of illness.

A lifelong learner and dedicated caregiver, she finds joy not only in providing the highest quality healthcare, but in connecting—whether through meeting new people, seeking new ideas, or exploring new corners of the world. Outside of the clinic, Dr. Bragg enjoys travelling, baking, and spending time with her family. Her greatest joy comes from being with her grandchildren, whose laughter and energy inspire her every day and keep her feeling young at heart.

Laura Hafez is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She completed her BS in Nutrition from ASU in 2014, MS in Nursing from the UofA in 2017 respectively. Not settling for the typical level of education for practicing nurses, Laura decided to continue her education and pursue the Family Nurse Practitioner role to provide better care. She graduated from NAU with a Post Masters Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in family practice in 2019. Laura is a current member of the AANP, as well as Sigma Theta Tau. Laura believes in the promotion of health and well-being, alongside patient education to achieve the best outcomes. She believes in education and research, and applies this to her patient base, making certain her treatment protocols are truly the latest, most effective, and proven remedies available. Laura is passionate about her belief in applying preventative medicine to her patent population, reducing the incidence of disease, both in the short term and later in life.

Jennifer is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She completed her BS in Nursing from ASU in 2012. From there, she decided to start her career as a Registered Nurse in an Intensive Care Unit. She was determined to continue on with her education and pursued her MS in Nursing from GCU, where she graduated from in 2024. Jennifer is a current member of the American Nurses Association and Sigma Theta Tau. She is passionate about providing holistic, quality care that promotes health and wellbeing. She believes her patients should have the opportunity to be active participants in the management of their healthcare as she feels shared decision making is vital to positive patient outcomes. She also believes it is important to provide treatment options based on the best evidence-based recommendations. It is her goal to establish patient relationships which allow open communication and improved long-term outcomes for all of her patients.

Pam Schillar, a highly experienced Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) relocated to Cave
Creek, AZ from Sandpoint, ID, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to
providing exceptional anesthesia care.

Pam grew up on a wheat farm in Ritzville, WA, a small community in Eastern Washington. She earned
her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from Eastern Washington University in May 1981 and began her career
as an RN at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, WA, initially working on a surgical floor. Pam later
transitioned to the Cardio-thoracic ICU, where she specialized in recovering heart and lung patients.
During this time, she had the opportunity to work closely with CRNAs who specialized in heart and lung
anesthesia, sparking her interest in furthering her education in this field.

In January 1991, Pam joined the United States Air Force as a commissioned officer. After two years in
the Medical ICU, she was accepted into the USAF CRNA program. The Air Force sent Pam to the
University of Texas Health Science Center, where she earned her Master’s Degree in Nursing with a
focus on anesthesia in 1996. Pam has been board certified since October 1996, and over the years, she
has gained extensive experience providing anesthesia services to patients of all ages in a variety of
settings.

For the past 19 years, Pam worked at Bonner General Hospital, a critical access hospital in Sandpoint, ID,
where she provided anesthesia care in a busy surgical services department. Pam enjoyed serving a tight-
knit community, caring for multiple generations of families. However, after years of long winters, Pam
decided to relocate to the Valley, a place she has always loved.

Pam is excited about the opportunities for both personal and professional growth in Arizona. In her free
time, she enjoys golfing, hiking, and taking in the breathtaking desert landscapes and sunsets. She also
enjoys the vibrant culture of the area, from local sports teams and spring training to excellent
restaurants and art and music festivals.

Hi there, my name is Bernadette Crovedi, mostly everyone calls me Berni. I moved to Arizona from Cleveland in 2006. I have 15 years of nursing experience, recently in the ER and ICU providing safe, high-quality care by using sound clinical judgement. Around 2018, I was called to provide preventative healthcare and decided to pursue my FNP. I am honest, direct and trustworthy. The care I deliver to my patients is individualized and directed with a holistic approach on prevention. As a nurse I have learned early interventions to lower or eliminate the risk of chronic illness setting in, therefore, I promote health and wellness in a loving manner.

Daniel Talamo, DO, is a primary care physician. He serves patients at HealthyU Clinics at our Avondale, Arizona, clinic. 

Dr. Talamo began his professional career with Adelante Healthcare in Goodyear, Arizona, where he worked for two years. In 2021, he joined Amwell Medical Group and then in 2022, he joined HealthyU Clinics at their first clinic in Avondale, Arizona.

Before working as an osteopathic medical doctor, Dr. Talamo attended Binghamton University in New York, receiving his bachelor's degree in cell and molecular biology. After graduating, Dr. Talamo graduated from the NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine in Old Westbury, New York, and completed his family medicine residency at Houston Medical Center in Georgia in 2019.

In his free time, Dr. Talamo enjoys exercising and working out. After work, you can find him boxing/kickboxing. On the weekends, you can find him hiking or preparing for his next half marathon. He also enjoys traveling, trying new foods, plant care, baking, and spending time with his family in Arizona and New York. 

Dr. Ricardo La Grotta, MD is a primary care physician. He serves patients at HealthyU Clinics at our Chandler, Arizona clinic.

With over two decades of medical experience, Dr. La Grotta brings his passion and commitment to HealthyU Clinics. Motivated by the organization's dedication to prioritizing patients, he joins with enthusiasm and a belief that the clinic is truly upholding the oath in primary care by putting people first.

Having spent his formative years in diverse regions such as South America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Northwest, Dr. La Grotta has cultivated a unique perspective. His focus on Primary Care and Urgent Care stems from a seamless blend of practical experience and scientific knowledge.

Although his family has been in the Pacific Northwest for four decades, Dr. La Grotta eagerly embraces Arizona as his new home. He looks forward to immersing himself in the beauty of the state, connecting with its vibrant communities, and indulging in the rich gastronomy that Arizona has to offer.

Siomara Hercules is a certified Nurse Practitioner with over eight years of nursing experience in orthopedic trauma, palliative care, and colorectal surgery. Her diverse clinical background has shaped her into a well-rounded provider who approaches patient care with empathy, attention to detail, and a deep respect for each individual’s unique health journey. 

Siomara earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University and her Master of Science in Nursing from United States University. She chose to specialize in urology because of her passion for helping patients feel comfortable, informed, and empowered—especially when navigating personal and often sensitive health concerns. 

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Siomara is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all patients. 

Outside of work, Siomara is a proud mom of three and can often be found cheering from the sidelines at her kids' sports games or exploring new restaurants around town. She brings the same energy, warmth, and curiosity to her personal life as she does to every patient encounter.

Carla is an enthusiastic Board Certified Physician Assistant who works closely with Dr. Bashir. Carla is an Arizona native and completed her undergraduate education, locally, at the University of Arizona, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Physiology. She then earned her Master’s degree in Physician Assistant studies from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. She developed a strong interest in cardiology during PA school and is enthusiastic about learning all there is in cardiac care. In her free time, Carla enjoys playing tennis, hiking, traveling, and skiing.

John Monroe, MD, founded Healthy Life Family Medicine in Goodyear, Arizona, in 2007. As a board-certified family physician, Dr. Monroe provides compassionate, patient-focused care to people of all ages. He’s committed to helping families in and around the communities west of Phoenix improve and protect their health. 

Dr. Monroe completed his undergraduate studies at Arizona State University in Tempe. He went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine at the University of Arizona in Tucson. Dr. Monroe served his family medicine residency at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix, including a year as chief resident. He’s certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. 

Dr. Monroe diagnoses, treats, and manages a wide range of health concerns such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and back and joint pain. He also offers physical exams and acute medical care for illnesses and injuries. Dr. Monroe also provides chronic care services to help patients manage chronic diseases and maintain their health and quality of life.