Philosophy of care | My philosophy centers on you, your personal needs and unique health journey. I believe in a collaborative approach, empowering patients with knowledge and being actively involved in treatment decisions. Whether managing chronic liver disease, guiding someone through a transplant process or offering preventive care, I create a compassionate and supportive environment where you feel heard and cared for. | Why I entered medicine | I chose a medical career to make a positive impact on people’s lives, especially in the realm of complex diseases like liver conditions, where treatment requires a balance of medical expertise and empathy. Liver disease, in particular, often affects individuals and their family in profound ways, and I find it incredibly rewarding to help patients navigate their care, from diagnosis to advanced treatments like a transplant. | Personal interests | I enjoy cooking and traveling, as well as time with family and close friends. I believe in maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper eating and regular exercise. I'm also committed to finding a balance between work and personal life. Dr. Peyton is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). His top areas of expertise are Hepatitis C, Primary Biliary Cholangitis, Hepatitis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

Philosophy of care | My principal aim is to treat all patients as I would want my family and friends to be treated: with dignity, respect and compassion. I want you to walk away from our first visit feeling seen and heard and knowing your experiences, thoughts and opinions regarding your care matter. I empower you and your caregivers with knowledge regarding your condition and how to navigate life with it. Living with liver disease can be incredibly difficult and overwhelming, so I am willing to walk with you every step of the way. | Why I entered medicine | Two reasons: my desire to care for others and my love for learning about the inner workings of the human body. I was drawn to the field of liver disease specifically because of the intellectual challenges inherent in caring for those with liver disease as well as the long-term relationships I am able to form with patients and their families. It is a career that challenges and humbles me on a daily basis, and I wouldn't have it any other way. | Personal interests | My family is my everything, and there is nothing more wonderful than spending time with them and watching my two children grow. Additionally, I love to garden, cook (though toddlers are the toughest food critics), make ice cream and ride my bike. Dr. Linganna is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Her top areas of expertise are Visceromegaly, Enlarged Liver, Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, and Liver Transplant.

Philosophy of care | My philosophy is to provide you and your family the best medical care I can through communication, understanding and partnership. | Why I entered medicine | I entered medicine because of my interest in science and the connection it provides with people. Dr. Wong is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Her top areas of expertise are Jaundice, Visceromegaly, Enlarged Liver, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

Philosophy of care | My approach as a transplant hepatologist is to treat the entire spectrum of liver disease, from early-stage diagnosis to advanced complications. My goal is to identify and address liver disease early to prevent progression to transplant whenever possible, because I believe if we can save livers, we can save lives. For patients whose disease is too advanced, we guide them and their families through the transplant process. | Why I entered medicine | I entered medicine to help people. That means using my skills and knowledge to make a real difference in patients' lives, especially those facing serious, complex illnesses. Being able to diagnose, treat and support patients through challenging conditions is a privilege and a responsibility. It’s about providing the right care, at the right time, and empowering patients to make the best decisions for their health. Whether it's helping manage symptoms, preventing disease progression or guiding a patient through a life-saving transplant, my purpose is to be there every step of the way, advocating for my patients and improving their quality of life. | Community involvement | I grew up in Pottsville, attended undergraduate school in Erie and went to medical school in Philadelphia. After completing all my subsequent training in Pittsburgh, I remained on faculty at the oldest and most established liver transplant program in the country. Now, I am excited to join the team leading the first liver transplant program in Allentown. This initiative will provide life-saving interventions to many who previously might not have had such an opportunity. It's a remarkable full-circle moment in my medical journey – one I couldn't pass up! | Personal interests | I have a passion for reading, researching and teaching about liver disease. Outside of my medical career, I love playing and watching sports – I'm a huge fan of the Steelers and Sixers. However, my favorite moments are spent with my family, especially my three children. Dr. Malik is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). His top areas of expertise are Hepatitis, Autoimmune Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, Visceromegaly, and Liver Transplant.

Philosophy of care | I strongly believe in creating a partnership with my patients, educating them about their conditions and treatment options, and encouraging them to make informed decisions for their health. I enjoy getting to know what my patients value in their lives and their health, and helping them achieve their health care goals. | Why I entered medicine | I love the combination of meaningful personal interactions and scientific thinking I get to experience every day in the medical profession. I specifically chose my field because endocrinologists treat a variety of chronic conditions, so we get to know our patients well over time. I love helping people understand their health conditions, feel better and reduce their risk of serious medical problems. | Personal interests | In my free time, I enjoy jogging, hiking, exploring local parks, cooking and listening to podcasts. Dr. Punati is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Her top areas of expertise are Postmenopausal Osteoporosis, Osteoporosis, Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), and Hyperparathyroidism.

Victoria Lieb is a Nurse Practitioner in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Her top areas of expertise are Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH).

Ranita Kuryan is a Pediatric Endocrinologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Her top areas of expertise are Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), Short Stature (Growth Disorders), Precocious Puberty, and Idiopathic Short Stature (ISS).

Philosophy of care | I believe patient care is a team effort and the family plays a very important role. As a pediatric endocrinologist, I help children who often need lifelong medical treatment. While the medical component of care is important, for it to be effective, the patient and family should be well aware of the disease and the treatment. This knowledge helps them incorporate aspects of care into their daily routine, enabling them to lead a normal life. It is always my priority to educate the patient and the family about their medical condition and treatment. | Why I entered medicine | I have always been interested in academics and had family role models as physicians. With their encouragement and my interest in caring for children, I decided to become a pediatrician. It is very gratifying to take care of children, from the newborn period to the teenage years, and to help parents take care of their child’s medical condition with comfort and confidence. | Community involvement | I have been a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Endocrine Society and Pediatric Endocrine Society. | Personal interests | In my free time I enjoy hiking, cooking, watching movies and spending time with family. . Her top areas of expertise are Familial Short Stature (FSS), Idiopathic Short Stature (ISS), Short Stature (Growth Disorders), and Type 1 Diabetes (T1D).

Laurissa Kashmer is a Pediatric Endocrinologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Her top areas of expertise are Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), Short Stature (Growth Disorders), Mosaicism, and Vitamin D Deficiency.

Philosophy of care | I went into primary care because I love developing relationships with my patients. I believe in listening to them and including them in their care. I want patients to understand the why and the how of their healthcare so they can make educated decisions that have a positive impact on their lives. | Why I entered medicine | My father was a doctor, and I grew up in a medical household. I always had a passion for taking care of people, but my early plans were to go into social work, not medicine. Somewhere along the way, though, I realized how much my father loved what he did. I recognized that becoming a doctor would allow me to make a profound difference in people’s lives, and I decided to follow in his footsteps. | Community involvement | Being an active participant in my community is vitally important to me. I sit on the board of the B’nai B’rith Housing Corporation in Allentown, a residence for seniors and those with mobility impairments. I also volunteer regularly at my synagogue and serve on many committees. It’s all part of supporting people around me who’ve given me so much. | Personal interests | Reading fiction is one of my favorite pastimes. I’m in a book group of women I’ve known for 20 years. We meet once a month to talk about books—and anything else that inevitably comes up. I also get together regularly with friends to play mah-jongg (a game using tiles that was developed in China). At home, I love spending time with my husband, two teenage kids and my two dogs. I credit the dogs with keeping me in shape; we log a couple of miles every day, rain or shine, hot or cold. My other happy place is any quiet stretch of beach along the Jersey shore. You’ll find me there whenever I can get away (sitting under an umbrella with my sunscreen on, of course!). Dr. Post is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Her top areas of expertise are Melorheostosis, Melorheostosis with Osteopoikilosis, Osteopenia, and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D).

Hiral Shah is a Gastroenterologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Shah is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). His top areas of expertise are Choledocholithiasis, Bile Duct Obstruction, Barrett Esophagus, Endoscopy, and Pancreatectomy.

Glenn Freed is a Gastroenterologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Freed is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). His top areas of expertise are Barrett Esophagus, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Esophagitis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

Paola Blanco is a Gastroenterologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Blanco is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Her top areas of expertise are Crohn's Disease, Gastric Dysmotility, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

Michael Engels is a Gastroenterologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Engels is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). His top areas of expertise are Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Acute Pancreatitis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

Philosophy of care | The physician’s role is to accurately diagnose and treat disease, but the practice of medicine also requires the doctor to see the entirety of who our patients are. Illness is disruptive and disorienting, and it can chip away at the big and small joys of life. I want to ease this suffering by guiding my patients through the process of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. I aim to see my patients and their families for all their complexities, and my goal is to help them get back to what they love doing. | Why I entered medicine | My grandfather was a family physician here in the Lehigh Valley, and I grew up witnessing his dedication to healing and his unwavering empathy. Medicine offers the perfect blend of cognitive and technical challenges, and it’s a career that guarantees the privilege of knowing and taking care of our patients. | Community involvement | I’ve been involved in Scouting throughout my life. As an Eagle Scout, I’m excited to be the leader for my son’s Cub Scout den. | Personal interests | In my free time, I enjoy distance running and hobby board gaming. I love being outside and traveling with my wife and three children. Dr. Zator is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). His top areas of expertise are Bile Duct Obstruction, Gallstones, Choledocholithiasis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

Philosophy of care | I provide the best possible evidence-based care to my patients, and look forward to helping you. | Why I entered medicine | The medical field fascinated me, and I loved how I could apply the science of gastroenterology to improve lives. | Community involvement | I am active at the Jewish Community Center and the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley. | Personal interests | I enjoy skiing, long-distance running and spending quality time with my wife and children. Dr. Mendelson is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). His top areas of expertise are Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease, Painful Swallowing, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

Philosophy of care | My philosophy centers around building relationships with patients, whether it be for a routine screening colonoscopy or long-term treatment of irritable bowel syndrome or ulcerative colitis. | Why I entered medicine | Medicine should focus 100% on patient care. I entered the field to treat you and all my patients the way I would want my family members treated: with care, respect and to the best of my knowledge and skill. | Community involvement | Saint Thomas More Catholic Church. South Parkland Youth Association. | Personal interests | I enjoy sports, hiking, muscle cars and grandkids. Dr. Bross is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). His top areas of expertise are Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Crohn's Disease, Acute Pancreatitis, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

Eric Nellis is a Gastroenterologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Nellis is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). His top areas of expertise are Painful Swallowing, Swallowing Difficulty, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

Philosophy of care | For health to work, it truly needs to be individualized and centered on you. Everyone is different and it's hard to fit everyone into a medical textbook mold. I believe many things can be achieved by understanding disease processes, and sometimes less is more. Medications and procedures all have risks and benefits and deciding what truly needs to be prescribed or done is a discussion between me and you. Just because something can be done doesn't always mean it should be done. | Why I entered medicine | I entered medicine to help people take control of their health, feel empowered and make positive life changes based on informed decisions with me as a guide. Understanding the human body is challenging and it’s my job to translate all the medical jargon so you understand what is happening to you, why it is happening and what options you have. I've always viewed medicine as a partnership with patients and not a dictatorship; most people enjoy being in control of their own bodies and health. | Personal interests | I spend most of my free time outside with my husband and daughters hiking, biking, jogging or snowboarding and just living and being in the moment. Dr. Patek is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Her top areas of expertise are Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Gastritis, Chronic Erosive Gastritis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

Philosophy of care | I strongly believe health care access should be for all. Regardless of their socio-economic status, religious background and beliefs, every person should have access to quality health care. I try to participate in free clinics set up by my mosque and eagerly supervise residents and fellows at Lehigh Valley Hospital clinics serving indigent patients. | Why I entered medicine | The field of medicine has the pulse of society. A caring doctor not only knows a patient's medical problems, but also is closely aware of the patient's circumstances and living environment. I entered medicine because I love science and for the dignity and respect doctors carry in society. | Community involvement | During more than two decades in the Lehigh Valley area, I have been involved through my mosque in community projects such as free clinics and soup kitchens. I have participated in LVHN charity walks and colorectal cancer awareness events. I also have been an active member of the Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America, which undertakes educational and legislative campaigns. | Personal interests | I am interested in reading world history, enjoy listening to music and watching cricket. I enjoy long walks and pickleball. Dr. Imam is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). His top areas of expertise are Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Painful Swallowing, Swallowing Difficulty, Gastrectomy, and Endoscopy.