At ChenMed, we often say that great care starts with great people. And during Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we’re proud to recognize some of the exceptional teammates who show up every day with heart, hustle, and a fierce commitment to our mission.

These teammates don’t seek the spotlight, but their work shines all the same. Whether they’re guiding patients through tough health journeys, optimizing care behind the scenes, or keeping our technology humming, their impact is lasting, personal, and deeply felt.

Turning challenges into progress

When things get tough, some people rise—and some rise early, stay late, and keep rising until the work is done. That’s exactly what Dr. Charanpreet Khangura did when she took on the role of Center Clinical Director at Detroit North.

“She worked way past closing almost every day for months to get us on the right track,” said her nominator, Dr. Sandra Molteni. “We were struggling, and under her leadership, we’ve absolutely thrived.”

But she didn’t just steer a center, she built a culture. From coordinating urgent patient needs like same-day oxygen to personally creating relationships with surgeons who now take calls directly from her team, Dr. Khangura proved what’s possible when leadership is hands-on, consistent, and purpose-driven.

Field Support Technician DiAna Smith brings that same energy behind the scenes. From the Atlanta market and beyond, DiAna is often the quiet force solving problems before they become problems. “Her support helps reduce errors, increase efficiency, and improve coordination of care,” shared nominator Tim Heath. “She identifies challenges and drives results—without ever needing credit.”

DiAna isn’t in the exam room, but her work has a direct line to patient outcomes. And just like Dr. Khangura, she leads with a mix of urgency, ownership, and care.

Healing with compassion wherever it’s needed

Whether face-to-face with patients or supporting clinicians from afar, several of our AAPI teammates bring a special kind of healing: the kind that comes with true compassion.

In Bradenton, Florida, acupuncturist Dr. Reynarichie Bragg is a bright light for every patient she encounters. “She introduces herself with a warm and welcoming smile,” said her nominator, Kristin Ackles. “She’ll rearrange her schedule to fit any patient in, even same day, just to help minimize chronic pain.”

That flexibility isn’t for convenience. It’s for people. One patient, in for X-rays only, was in visible pain. Dr. Bragg noticed, paused, and offered to treat the patient on the spot. “She got her scheduled for a follow-up the next day,” Kristin added. “The patient left smiling.”

At the Home Office, Coding Supervisor Hana Pham plays a quieter but equally essential role. “Reviewing charts with accuracy and finding chronic conditions to query PCPs, Hana is helping our patients stay away from hospital and sick days,” said nominator Arsenio Diaz Cardelle.

Her attention to detail ensures our clinical teams have the most accurate information—and that patients get the care they actually need. As Arsenio put it, “She guides her team with love and compassion every day.”

Showing up for the team

Leadership doesn’t always mean standing in front. Often, it means showing up beside your team with a hand, a solution, or a sense of calm. All four of our AAPI honorees share this kind of leadership.

“She’s not just a clinical director,” said Dr. Molteni about Dr. Khangura. “She loves our patients, she loves us, and she shows us every day with her consistency.”

That kind of presence can change a team. Just ask anyone who’s worked with DiAna Smith. “She’s the one you want on your team when things go sideways,” said Tim Heath. “She holds herself to high standards and always follows through.”

Dr. Bragg brings that same energy to her coworkers. “She’s willing to lend a helping hand to anyone, no matter what the job is,” Kristin said. Whether she’s treating a patient or helping a colleague, she shows up with kindness and humility.

And then there’s Hana, who not only leads her team with technical excellence, but with something just as important: warmth. “She shows up with a big smile and loving interactions every single day,” Arsenio shared.

Making a lasting impact, without needing the spotlight

What these team members have in common isn’t just a title, a department, or a role. It’s how they do what they do—with love, accountability, and passion. They’re not asking to be noticed. But the lives they’ve touched? They noticed.

AAPI Heritage Month is a time to pause and reflect on the contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander individuals across the country. At ChenMed, it’s a chance to say thank you to the teammates who have made us stronger, better, and more compassionate.

Their actions remind us that leadership isn’t about standing out. It’s about lifting others, solving complex problems, and keeping patients at the center, always.

Looking for a place where your work truly matters?

At ChenMed, we’re always looking for people who bring heart and purpose to everything they do. Join us and help deliver care that transforms lives.

We are currently hiring for the following roles in the communities we serve. Click below to explore our immediate openings or visit Chenmed.com/careers.

Primary Care Physician
Center Operations Directors
Medical Center Support
Membership Growth Sales

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