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 a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Esophageal Varices. Her top areas of expertise are Jaundice, Visceromegaly, Enlarged Liver, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

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 Esophageal Varices. His top areas of expertise are Hepatitis C, Primary Biliary Cholangitis, Hepatitis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

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 Esophageal Varices. His top areas of expertise are Hepatitis, Autoimmune Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, Visceromegaly, and Liver Transplant.

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 Esophageal Varices. Her top areas of expertise are Visceromegaly, Enlarged Liver, Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, and Liver Transplant.

Ashley Tran is a Transplant Surgeon and a Gastroenterologist in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Dr. Tran is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Esophageal Varices. Her top areas of expertise are Hepatitis, Hepatitis C, Alcoholic Cirrhosis, Visceromegaly, and Endoscopy. Dr. Tran is currently accepting new patients.

Renata Lerer is a Gastroenterologist and a Transplant Surgeon in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Her top areas of expertise are Familial Colorectal Cancer, Cirrhosis, Gastritis, and Mesenteric Artery Ischemia. Dr. Lerer is currently accepting new patients.

Kimberly Chaput is a Gastroenterologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Chaput is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Esophageal Varices. Her top areas of expertise are Mesenteric Artery Ischemia, Diverticular Disease, Plummer-Vinson Syndrome, Colonoscopy, and Endoscopy.

Philosophy of care | My philosophy is to treat you as I would a member of my own family, offering guidance in your time of need. I strive to provide state-of-the-art care for each patient during every encounter. I will do my best to make sure you understand your condition so you can continue to take strides toward optimum health. | Why I entered medicine | It hurts my soul when people don’t feel good. Since childhood I’ve been passionate about wanting to help people feel better. Growing up I saw the relationship my father had with his own doctor, and that inspired me. | Community involvement | I have volunteered in Mother Teresa’s mission in Calcutta, India. I also have organized and managed a team of 30-plus staffers for Lustgarten Foundation pancreatic cancer fundraiser walks in Allentown the last 12 years. | Personal interests | In my spare time I enjoy biking with family, tennis and meditation. Dr. Shah is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Esophageal Varices. His top areas of expertise are Pancreatic Cancer, Pancreatic Pseudocyst, Bile Duct Obstruction, Endoscopy, and Liver Transplant.

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 Esophageal Varices. His top areas of expertise are Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Crohn's Disease, Acute Pancreatitis, 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 Esophageal Varices. His top areas of expertise are Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Acute Pancreatitis, 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 Esophageal Varices. His top areas of expertise are Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Painful Swallowing, Swallowing Difficulty, Gastrectomy, and Endoscopy.

Philosophy of care | I provide the best available care based on the latest research and standard of care. This can only be achieved through close interaction with each patient, listening to their history and helping them choose the treatment that best meets their goals and lifestyle. | Why I entered medicine | I have always been passionate about providing healing and care. I love to use insights about how the body functions and modern medicine to provide a cure and respite from disease. | Community involvement | I have led a team of passionate medical clinicians on three international trips to provide medical care to Ukrainian refugees. My team was able to bring medicine and care to hundreds of people escaping the ravages of war. | Personal interests | My free time is spent with my children and husband. We love to travel to experience different foods and cultures. Dr. Shnitser is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Esophageal Varices. Her top areas of expertise are Crohn's Disease, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Ulcerative Colitis, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

Philosophy of care | My aim is to provide quality care by educating you about your conditions so you feel more comfortable sharing your health concerns, have a better understanding of the treatment plan, and ultimately become a more active participant in your care. | Why I entered medicine | I entered medicine because I wanted to enter a field that combined my interest in science with the ability to work closely with people. Medicine provides this plus the opportunity to stay on the leading edge of technology and research while being a lifelong learner. | Community involvement | Locally, I am a member of the Pennsylvania Society of Gastroenterology. | Personal interests | I am an avid sports fan and season-ticket holder. I enjoy traveling to national parks and other new places, running, hiking, kayaking, listening to informative podcasts, and spending time with my family and dog. Dr. Sullivan is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Esophageal Varices. His top areas of expertise are Lower Esophageal Ring, Biliary Hypoplasia, Swallowing Difficulty, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

Eric Nellis is a Gastroenterologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Nellis is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Esophageal Varices. His top areas of expertise are Painful Swallowing, Swallowing Difficulty, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), 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 Esophageal Varices. His top areas of expertise are Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease, Painful Swallowing, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

Philosophy of care | I believe in taking care of you as a whole, investing in your emotional well-being as well as treating your physical ailment. | Why I entered medicine | I entered medicine because I wanted to help people. I have always found medicine and science fascinating, and the more I learned, the more I wanted to know. Gastroenterology is by far the most interesting specialty to me, and with the variety of pathology we see, it is never boring. | Community involvement | I routinely participate in local Step Beyond Celiac 5K events to raise money for celiac disease research, and have spoken at local PA gluten free expos. My personal and professional passion is to raise awareness for and to focus on patient education for celiac disease. | Personal interests | I love spending time with my son, daughter and husband, and enjoy improving on my gluten-free cooking skills. Dr. Baragona is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Esophageal Varices. Her top areas of expertise are Celiac Disease, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Gastric Dysmotility, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

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

Philosophy of care | I am a board-certified gastroenterologist with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a range of digestive disorders, especially gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophageal motility disorders and functional bowel diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), I help you improve your quality of life through personalized care and evidence-based treatment. My patient-centered approach combines the latest advancements in gastroenterology with compassionate care to manage both common and complex digestive conditions. Dr. Hickey is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Esophageal Varices. His top areas of expertise are Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Biliary Hypoplasia, Swallowing Difficulty, 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 Esophageal Varices. Her top areas of expertise are Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Gastritis, Chronic Erosive Gastritis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

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