Cardiologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Chiropractor providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Dentist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Dermatologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Family Physician providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
OB-GYN providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Ophthalmologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Orthopedic Surgeon providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Pediatrician providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Physical Therapist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Podiatrist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Psychiatrist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
As an expert otolaryngologist, Dr. Richard A. Ruiz treats the full range of diseases and problems that develop in your ear, nose, and throat. He welcomes patients of all ages to his practice, Richard Ruiz M.D., Inc., in Temecula, California, where men and women can schedule timely appointments, enjoy short wait times, and feel welcomed by a staff focused on each individual’s health and well-being.
Dr. Ruiz received a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences from the University of California, Irvine (UCI), where he graduated with honors in research. Even at this early stage in his career, he established himself as a serious researcher, publishing multiple articles in peer-reviewed science and medical journals.
After graduating from UCI, Dr. Ruiz attended medical school at the prestigious Yale University Medical School in New Haven, Connecticut. In his first year, he was elected president of the student council, a position typically held by a fourth-year medical student.
During his time at Yale, Dr. Ruiz continued to publish his work in various medical journals and presented his findings at meetings at various institutions, including Harvard Medical School and the American College of Surgeons, and Yale Surgical Grand Rounds. He spent years doing basic and applied medical research, culminating in his thesis The Treatment of Melanoma with Immunotherapy.
Dr. Ruiz completed a general surgery internship and residency at Yale University Medical Center, then entered a three-year residency in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery at the same facility. While he was a resident, he competed for and won the Temporal Bone Dissection Award, which is given to one resident each year.
In his last year at Yale, Dr. Ruiz served as a lecturer in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. During that time, he developed an expertise in the fields of endoscopic sinus surgery, nasal surgery, ear surgery, head and neck tumors, and reconstruction of cancer defects of the head and neck.
Dr. Ruiz is a member of the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.
Bobby S. Bhasker-Rao, MD, FACS, Inc. provides a range of surgical and nonsurgical weight loss solutions for adults living in and around Rancho Mirage, California. Fellowship-trained robotic bariatric surgeon Dr. Bobby has extensive training in daVinci® robotic technology to complete laparoscopic surgeries that support consistent and efficient weight loss. The practice empowers men and women to make necessary lifestyle and diet changes that are essential to optimal health.
Dr. Bobby earned his medical degree from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in California. After completing his residency at Brookdale University Hospital & Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Bobby returned to California to finish his fellowship training in robotic bariatric surgery at the University of California - Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, where he also served as a clinical instructor of surgery.
Dr. Bobby is a master of robotic surgery, using his expertise to train and educate other bariatric surgeons. In his private practice, Dr. Bobby performs laparoscopic gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, duodenal switch, and Lap-Band® surgeries with the daVinci system. He can also use daVinci technology to remove an appendix or gallbladder or treat an inguinal hernia.
Dr. Bobby works with a skilled team of professionals to create customized nutrition counseling plans. In addition, the team provides personalized wellness services and physical fitness programs that include free exercise classes and peer support groups.
The Bobby S. Bhasker-Rao MD, Inc. staff understands that choosing to have bariatric surgery is a life-altering decision. They take a compassionate, personalized approach to pre-and postsurgical care so individuals can achieve their desired body weight and maintain optimum health for the rest of their lives.
Call Bobby S. Bhasker-Rao MD, Inc. in Rancho Mirage, California, today to schedule a consultation.
Craig Owens, MD, is a board-certified general surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates.
Dr. Owens studied at the Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts, earning his medical degree. Then, he completed a transitional year internship at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Brighton, Massachusetts.
Before entering private practice, Dr. Owens completed a general surgery residency at the Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium in Loma Linda, California, receiving extensive training in all aspects of surgical care.
Dr. Owens is knowledgeable in various surgical techniques and specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.
He holds privileges at several area hospitals, including Inland Valley Regional Medical Center; Rancho Springs Medical Center and Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta; Temecula Valley Hospital in Temecula, California; and Menifee Valley Hospital.
When he isn’t meeting with patients or performing operations, Dr. Owens enjoys golfing and car racing. He also believes in continuing education and stays abreast of advances in surgical techniques and technologies.
Dr. Owens is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery. He welcomes anyone needing general surgery to Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates today.
Brian Tiu, MD, is a board-certified vascular surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates.
Dr. Tiu always knew he wanted to be a doctor. Growing up, he volunteered at various hospitals and medical centers, which spurred his interest in medicine.
Dr. Tiu studied at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark, earning his medical degree. Then, he completed a surgical residency at the State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn and a vascular surgery fellowship at Maimonides Medical Center, also in Brooklyn.
These experiences inspired Dr. Tiu to pursue a career in vascular surgery. Dr. Tiu thinks vascular surgery is the most interesting field of medicine. As an expert in the field, he does everything from minimally invasive procedures, like angiograms, to open procedures, like removing blockages and performing bypasses.
Dr. Tiu loves making a difference in his patients' lives. He never rushes appointments and makes time to explain each vascular diagnosis in-depth. Specifically, he explains the natural course of diseases, including where they originate, why they occur, and what can be done to improve them.
Bolaji Nafiu, MD, FACS, is a double-board-certified vascular surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates.
Dr. Nafiu studied at the University of Ibadan College of Medicine in Nigeria, earning his medical degree. After graduation, he moved to the United States. He completed a general surgery residency at the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Willowbrook, California, and a vascular surgery fellowship at Yale New Haven Hospital in Connecticut.
As a general and vascular surgeon, Dr. Nafiu treats various medical conditions, including blood clots, carotid artery disease, and chronic venous insufficiency. He also treats aortic aneurysms and peripheral vascular disease.
He holds privileges at several area hospitals, including Inland Valley Regional Medical Center in Wildomar, California; Rancho Springs Medical Center and Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta in Murrieta, California; and Temecula Valley Hospital in Temecula, California.
Dr. Nafiu is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a member of the Society of Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. He welcomes anyone needing vascular or general surgery to Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates today.
Amit Karmur, DO, is the newest vascular surgeon to join Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates (MVSA).
Dr. Karmur graduated from medical school at the Western University of Health Sciences and completed his general surgery residency at Community Memorial Health System in Ventura, California. He then went on to sub-specialize and complete his fellowship in vascular surgery at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center.
Dr. Karmur treats all types of diseases that affect the vascular system. He specializes in both traditional open surgical and minimally invasive endovascular techniques. These include diseases of the carotid arteries, aortic aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease, and dialysis access.
During his spare time, Dr. Karmur likes to travel and learn about new cultures. He also enjoys maintaining his health by working out and staying active by exploring the outdoors. He and his wife are both from the Inland Empire and are excited to be back in the community.
Raymund Cordero, MD, is a skilled, dedicated, and board-certified doctor of medicine specializing in general surgery and has been practicing locally for over 20 years.
In addition to his work at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, Dr. Cordero also holds appointments at Inland Valley Regional Medical Center, Rancho Springs Medical Center, Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta, Temecula Valley Hospital, and Menifee Valley Hospital.
Dr. Cordero is a member of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), the American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS), and the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS). He is certified by the American Board of Surgery (ABS).
When Dr. Cordero isn’t serving patients, he likes watching basketball and soccer. He also enjoys spending time with his two children, who are both interested in pursuing medicine.
Xiujie Wang, MD, FACS, RPVI, is a board-certified vascular surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates.
Dr. Wang studied at Shanxi Medical University in Jinzhong, China, earning her medical degree. After graduation, she moved to the United States and completed a surgical residency at St. Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury, Connecticut. She also completed a vascular surgery fellowship at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City.
Dr. Wang brings more than 20 years of vascular surgery experience to the practice. She treats a wide array of conditions but has a special interest in treating peripheral artery disease (PAD), varicose veins, and aneurysms.
Outside of the office, Dr. Wang holds appointments at several area hospitals, including Inland Valley Regional Medical Center; Rancho Springs Medical Center and Loma Linda University Medical Center; and Temecula Valley Hospital.
Dr. Wang is board-certified in general and vascular surgery by the American Board of Surgery. She’s also a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a member of the Society of Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum.
Dr. Wang welcomes anyone in need of vascular surgery to Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates today.
Hege Johnsen, MD, FACS, is a board-certified general surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, providing complete surgical care to patients in Wildomar, Temecula, Hemet, and Menifee, California.
Dr. Johnsen studied at Albert Szent-Gyorgi Medical University in Szeged, Hungary, earning her medical degree. She then moved to the United States and completed a residency in general surgery.
Dr. Johnsen brings more than 20 years of experience to the practice. She specializes in general surgery but has a special interest in breast surgery and inguinal hernia repair without mesh (shouldice procedure).
Outside of Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, Dr. Johnsen holds appointments at several area hospitals, including Inland Valley Regional Medical Center in Wildomar, California; Rancho Springs Medical Center in Murrieta, California; Menifee Valley Hospital in Menifee, California; and Temecula Valley Hospital in Temecula, California; and Loma Linda University Medical Center.
Dr. Johnsen is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. She speaks English and Norwegian fluently, allowing her to serve the practice’s diverse clientele.
Dr. Johnsen welcomes anyone needing general, breast surgery, hernia repair or cholecystectomy to Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates today.
I am a triple-board certified surgeon with expertise in general, colorectal and trauma/ critical care surgery. Born and and raised in Brazil, I completed my medical education at the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC).
In high school, my passion for Biology, Math and Physics led me to pursue medicine for its challenging and exciting nature. Working in the operating room, I take great satisfation in promptly addressing my patient's concerns through surgical interventions.
My frequent surgical procedures involve colorectal cancer removal, anorectal surgery (including hemorrhoids and fistulas), and hernia repair. With over two decades of surgical experience in Murrieta and Temecula, I am committed to providing patients with top-notch care and a positive treatment experience. As a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (FASCRS), I continuously strive to integrate new technologies into my practice.
Beyond my medical pursuits, I enjoy traveling with my family, watching movies, reading, operating my drone, and capturing aerial photographs.
I am a triple-board certified surgeon with expertise in general, colorectal and trauma/ critical care surgery. Born and and raised in Brazil, I completed my medical education at the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC).
In high school, my passion for Biology, Math and Physics led me to pursue medicine for its challenging and exciting nature. Working in the operating room, I take great satisfation in promptly addressing my patient's concerns through surgical interventions.
My frequent surgical procedures involve colorectal cancer removal, anorectal surgery (including hemorrhoids and fistulas), and hernia repair. With over two decades of surgical experience in Murrieta and Temecula, I am committed to providing patients with top-notch care and a positive treatment experience. As a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (FASCRS), I continuously strive to integrate new technologies into my practice.
Beyond my medical pursuits, I enjoy traveling with my family, watching movies, reading, operating my drone, and capturing aerial photographs.
Brian Tiu, MD, is a board-certified vascular surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates.
Dr. Tiu always knew he wanted to be a doctor. Growing up, he volunteered at various hospitals and medical centers, which spurred his interest in medicine.
Dr. Tiu studied at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark, earning his medical degree. Then, he completed a surgical residency at the State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn and a vascular surgery fellowship at Maimonides Medical Center, also in Brooklyn.
These experiences inspired Dr. Tiu to pursue a career in vascular surgery. Dr. Tiu thinks vascular surgery is the most interesting field of medicine. As an expert in the field, he does everything from minimally invasive procedures, like angiograms, to open procedures, like removing blockages and performing bypasses.
Dr. Tiu loves making a difference in his patients' lives. He never rushes appointments and makes time to explain each vascular diagnosis in-depth. Specifically, he explains the natural course of diseases, including where they originate, why they occur, and what can be done to improve them.
Francis Essien, MD, FACS, is a board-certified general surgeon and fellowship trained in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery.
Dr. Essien's zeal for the art and science of medicine and surgery began as a teenager at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria.
An interest in providing excellent patient care brought Dr. Essien to the United States to pursue a natural calling in the surgical specialty.
Passionate about cutting-edge, advanced, minimally invasive, and robotic surgical technology, Dr. Essien’s knowledge and expertise give patients the advantage of a faster recovery.
The surgeon’s more cosmetic approach also offers less pain and a quicker return to a happier and more productive lifestyle.
Dr. Essien is highly skilled in various procedures, most frequently performing laparoscopic surgery for severe gastroesophageal reflux disease, laparoscopic hernia repairs, hiatal hernia repairs, minimally invasive endocrine surgery, laparoscopic adrenalectomy, and laparoscopic colon resections for benign and malignant conditions.
Dr. Essien also performs laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, laparoscopic gastric bypass, and revision bariatric procedures.
With a passion for Bariatric surgery, Dr. Essien helps patients achieve their goals of a healthier weight while eliminating the medical illnesses associated with excessive weight and enjoying a better quality of life.
Dr. Essien believes in an individualized and holistic approach to improving the health and wellness of patients.
Outside of caring for patients, Dr. Essien enjoys spending time with family at home, cooking, traveling, cycling, and playing golf.
I am Dr. Kaylene Barrera, and it my absolute pleasure to be a surgeon in this community. I grew up in Southern California and got interested in Medicine when I was young. My mother had initially wanted to be a social worker, but then went back to school to become a nurse and would ask me to help her study by quizzing her with flashcards.
This led me to college at the University of California, Irvine and medical school at the University of Southern California, where I was fortunate to work with some amazing mentors that inspired me to go into surgery. My surgical training continued at the State University of New York, Downstate in Brooklyn where I trained at county and university hospitals. Again, I was blessed to have the most amazing mentors that taught me not only the technical aspects of surgery but the importance of dedication to our patients. I appreciated how as a surgeon, one could be involved in every aspect of a patient's care, contribute to scientific breakthroughs and be a patient advocate. Sharing what I have learned and experienced as a surgeon, I have published 9 peer reviewed publications, 33 national presentations, and four book chapters. I also have written about impact of meaningful issues such as drug shortage and the opioid epidemic, as these have a profound impact on my patients lives.
My journey has led be back to California, and to a great practice where I feel at home. My partners and I strive to treat each patient that we take care of like our family. As a general surgeon I have the opportunity to care for conditions ranging anywhere from lipomas and cysts to hernias, gallbladder disease, hemorrhoids, breast disease, trauma, and intestinal surgery.
Outside of the operating room, I enjoy playing the clarinet and saxophone, being an amateur gardener, and watching reruns of Star Trek TNG.
Thank you for choosing Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, looking forward to the opportunity to help you in your wellness journey
Olivia Mac, MD, is double board certified in general surgery and surgical critical care.
Dr. Mac grew up in the suburbs of Los Angeles County and attended medical school at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. After medical school, she returned to California to complete her general surgery residency at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center/Kaiser Permanente Fontana and then a surgical critical care fellowship at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center.
Dr. Mac became a surgeon so that she could use her skills to help others, as surgeons in the past have helped those in her family.
In her free time outside of the office, Dr. Mac enjoys baking, playing the piano, and playing with her cats.
She looks forward to welcoming both new and returning patients to Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates.
Craig Owens, MD, is a board-certified general surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates.
Dr. Owens studied at the Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts, earning his medical degree. Then, he completed a transitional year internship at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Brighton, Massachusetts.
Before entering private practice, Dr. Owens completed a general surgery residency at the Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium in Loma Linda, California, receiving extensive training in all aspects of surgical care.
Dr. Owens is knowledgeable in various surgical techniques and specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.
He holds privileges at several area hospitals, including Inland Valley Regional Medical Center; Rancho Springs Medical Center and Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta; Temecula Valley Hospital in Temecula, California; and Menifee Valley Hospital.
When he isn’t meeting with patients or performing operations, Dr. Owens enjoys golfing and car racing. He also believes in continuing education and stays abreast of advances in surgical techniques and technologies.
Dr. Owens is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery. He welcomes anyone needing general surgery to Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates today.
Hege Johnsen, MD, FACS, is a board-certified general surgeon at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, providing complete surgical care to patients in Wildomar, Temecula, Hemet, and Menifee, California.
Dr. Johnsen studied at Albert Szent-Gyorgi Medical University in Szeged, Hungary, earning her medical degree. She then moved to the United States and completed a residency in general surgery.
Dr. Johnsen brings more than 20 years of experience to the practice. She specializes in general surgery but has a special interest in breast surgery and inguinal hernia repair without mesh (shouldice procedure).
Outside of Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, Dr. Johnsen holds appointments at several area hospitals, including Inland Valley Regional Medical Center in Wildomar, California; Rancho Springs Medical Center in Murrieta, California; Menifee Valley Hospital in Menifee, California; and Temecula Valley Hospital in Temecula, California; and Loma Linda University Medical Center.
Dr. Johnsen is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. She speaks English and Norwegian fluently, allowing her to serve the practice’s diverse clientele.
Dr. Johnsen welcomes anyone needing general, breast surgery, hernia repair or cholecystectomy to Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates today.
I am a board-certified general and vascular surgeon affiliated with Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates. Raised in Brazil, I'm fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. My passion for science, teaching and helping others led me to medicine, and I discovered my calling in surgery during anatomy class.
After graduating from the Federal University os Santa Catarina in Brazil, I continued my education in New York, completing residency in general surgery and a vascular surgery fellowship on the East Coast. Opting for warmer climate of California, I've been treating vascular diseases for over two decades, cherishing the connection with my patients. I prioritize lasting cardiovascular health beyond surgical interventions. Recently, I joined the faculty at the UHS General Surgery Residency program, where I stay updated on vascular surgery developments while enjoying teaching.
Outside of work, I endulge in cooking, hiking and tennis with family and friends.
