Chen Senior Medical Center

Ricardo Melendez-Fadhel

Dr. Ricardo Melendez-Fadhel has always been fascinated with the human body and dedicated his life to helping others after seeing the impact of his grandfather’s health complications. “It is truly rewarding to give back to older generations with the care they deserve,” Dr. Melendez-Fadhel says. “By improving their health and quality of life, I hope to help them spend more time focusing on what matters most.” Outside of work and medical research, Dr. Melendez-Fadhel enjoys quality time with his wife. Born and raised on an island, he is drawn to surfing, boating, scuba diving, relaxing on the beach, and watching sunsets. He enjoys traveling around the world and learning about different cultures.

Education: Universidad Central del Caribe , St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital , University of Puerto Rico

Certifications: American College of Physicians , American Medical Association

Services: Primary Care

Rene Parraga

Doctor Rene Parraga-Montilla earned his doctorate in medicine from the Luis Razetti School of Medicine; he completed his internal medicine residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital, the major teaching facility for the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine. He joined the Miller School of Medicine as an Assistant Professor of Medicine and Associate Internal Medicine Clerkship Director. Prior to joining Chen, he taught medicine to medical students and trained physicians in the specialty of internal medicine at Jackson Memorial Hospital. Dr. Parraga-Montilla is motivated by complex medical cases and enjoys being a role model for younger physicians and other healthcare staff. “I hope to have a positive impact on how to treat patients professionally and with compassion,” Dr. Parraga-Montilla said. “It is important to listen to patients and let them know you care.”

Education: University of Venezuela

Services: Internal Medicine

Blanca Infante Avila

Blanca Infante knew in high school that she “wanted to work in the health field caring for patients.” She prides herself on listening to her patients’ concerns and loves watching them reach their goals. Blanca Infante has “deep respect” for the senior population. “I try to make their life as easy as possible,” she says. Blanca Infante believes healthcare should be accessible for everyone and emphasizes the importance of health education. Blanca Infante often reads and participates in seminars to keep up with new medical advancements. When not caring for patients, Blanca Infante enjoys working with her hands and making pottery. She hopes to one day take pottery classes. She also likes exercising in her free time.

Education: University of Havana , University of the West Indies , Kingston Public Hospital , Miami Regional University

Services: Internal Medicine , Family Medicine

Michael Herrera

Dr. Michael Herrera loves caring for and connecting with his community, which is his favorite part of being a physician. “My patients are all treated like how I would treat my own family,” he says. He wants patients to know he will fight for them. “I will do everything that I possibly can to create a personalized treatment plan for every individual,” he says. He encourages patients to play an active role in their care and always takes the time to answer questions and explain treatments to patients and their families. “I want my patients’ families to be confident and secure in my taking care of their loves ones,” he says. In his free time, Dr. Herrera enjoys cooking with his fresh grown herbs. He also likes playing video games.

Education: Ross University School of Medicine , The Brooklyn Hospital Center , Brooklyn College

Services: Primary Care

Claudia Cottone

Having grown up in the world of healthcare, Dr. Claudia Cottone realized early in life that she wanted to pursue medicine. “I’ve always admired my father’s determination and dedication towards his patients,” she says. She loves building relationships with patients and “becoming part of their health journey.” She explains, “I especially enjoy seeing my patients making changes towards better health in their lives.” She aims to treat patients holistically and with compassion and kindness. “Setting realistic goals is my secret to helping my patients achieve their health goals,” she explains. When not with patients, Dr. Cottone can be found supporting her kids at soccer games and school events. She also enjoys relaxing at the beach.

Education: University of Palermo , Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital , University of Turin

Certifications: Endocrine Society , American Association of Clinical Endocrinology , American Diabetes Association , American College of Physicians , American Medical Association

Services: Internal Medicine

Md Sakib

Md Sakib’s passion for medicine extends beyond an interest in science, rather he feels called to serve. This passion was ignited after witnessing “the profound impact that compassionate healthcare can have on individuals and their families.” He finds “great joy” in conversing with patients and believes that strong relationships are built upon “trust, empathy, and active listening.” He aims to be present with patients and “foster a collaborative journey toward health.” He adds, “Each day presents an opportunity to touch a life to provide comfort, hope, and healing.” Md Sakib can be found spending his free time with family or enjoying the tranquility of fishing. He also loves traveling and sampling new cuisines.

Education: Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College & Hospital , Florida Gulf Coast University , Miami Regional University , University of New England

Services: Internal Medicine

Jennifer Castilloux

Since Dr. Jennifer Castilloux was young, she’s always been interested in science. “All the complexities of the human body and pathology piqued my interest,” Dr. Castilloux says. Specializing in internal medicine, Dr. Castilloux rounds in skilled nursing facilities in Broward and Miami-Dade counties. “I chose to work with seniors because I believe they deserve a physician that will advocate for their needs, especially if they are unable to do so for themselves. I take time to make sure my patients really understand what’s going on with them and teach them about prevention so they can regain control of their health and take better care of themselves,” Dr. Castilloux adds.

Education: Mount Sinai Medical Center , Nova Southeastern University , Florida International University

Certifications: American College of Osteopathic Internists , American Osteopathic Association

Services: Hospitalist Medicine