A small, family-feel practice led by Mohamed Hussain, APRN-BC, with a diverse staff fluent in seven languages.
Primary Care
Patient Care
Mohamed A. Hussain, APRN, MBBS, Board-certified family nurse practitioner through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Mohamed is a dedicated healthcare professional whose journey into medicine began in India with a childhood dream of becoming a physician. In 1993, he achieved that dream when he graduated from Karnataka University with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS).
After relocating to the United States, Mohamed continued to expand his education and professional expertise. In 2002, he earned a Master’s degree in Business from the University of Hartford, developing a strong foundation in healthcare leadership, administration, and business management. In 2013, he completed his Master’s degree in Advanced Nursing Practice from Quinnipiac University, further strengthening his ability to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care.
Driven by hard work, compassion, and a commitment to serving his community, Mohamed established his own medical practice to create a family-oriented healthcare environment where patients feel respected, heard, and cared for. His approach to medicine extends beyond treating individual symptoms or illnesses. He believes that healthcare should address the whole person, recognizing the importance of physical health, emotional well-being, lifestyle, family, and the individual needs of each patient.
Mon–Sat
Vernon-Rockville, CT
Primary Care
Patient Care
Annie Augustine, MSN, RN, Board-certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-BC). Annie is an experienced healthcare professional with an extensive nursing background spanning acute care, critical care, neonatal intensive care, rehabilitation, psychiatric care, addiction services, long-term care, and primary care. She brings more than three decades of nursing experience and advanced practice training to the delivery of compassionate, evidence-based, patient-centered healthcare.
Annie earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) from American Sentinel Nursing and Health Sciences at Post University in Waterbury, Connecticut, completing the program in March 2024. She previously earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from American Sentinel University in Colorado in 2014 and her General Nursing and Midwifery Associate Degree from JMH, Thrissur, Kerala, India, in 1986.
Mon–Fri
Vernon-Rockville, CT
Primary Care
Patient Care
Sarita Lewis, APRN, BSN, RN, CNE, RN Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner through American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Sarita is a highly experienced healthcare professional with more than 25 years of diverse clinical experience in emergency, trauma, urgent care, surgical, and acute-care settings. She holds a Master’s degree in Advanced Nursing Practice and brings extensive clinical knowledge and expertise in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients across the lifespan.
Throughout her distinguished nursing career, Sarita has developed exceptional expertise in emergency and trauma nursing, with a strong focus on the assessment and management of critically ill and medically complex patients. Her professional background includes experience in a Level I Trauma Center, where she cared for patients presenting with a broad range of acute and life-threatening conditions, including medical emergencies, traumatic injuries, chest pain, stroke, pediatric emergencies, behavioral health crises, and other high-acuity presentations.
Sarita is recognized for her strong clinical judgment, critical-thinking skills, and ability to remain calm and effective in rapidly changing and high-pressure environments.
Her extensive clinical background has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of patient care, from initial assessment and stabilization through ongoing treatment and follow-up. Sarita is committed to delivering safe, patient-centered, and evidence-based care, while treating every patient with dignity, compassion, and respect.
As an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Sarita brings together her extensive bedside nursing experience, advanced clinical knowledge, and dedication to patient education and preventive healthcare. She is passionate about helping patients achieve better health outcomes and believes in building trusting, long-term relationships with the individuals and families she serves.
Mon–Fri
Vernon-Rockville, CT
Primary Care
Patient Care
Shahida, MSN, FNP-C, APRN, is a dual Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner credentialed through both the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), with more than 17 years of comprehensive healthcare experience.
She earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University, graduating with honors. Her diverse clinical background includes primary care, women’s health, adult medical-surgical care, and pediatrics, providing her with a broad perspective on the healthcare needs of patients across the lifespan.
Shahida is dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based, and individualized care, with a strong emphasis on patient education, preventive health, and building meaningful provider-patient relationships. She strives to empower each patient to take an active role in their health and is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care across the lifespan.
Mon–Fri
Vernon-Rockville, CT
Primary Care
Patient Care
Carsia Denise Simms, APRN, BSN, RN Board-certified Family Nurse practitioner through American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Carsia is a dedicated and highly experienced registered nurse with more than 14 years of clinical experience and a strong background in nursing supervision and patient care. She is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based, and patient-centered care while maintaining high standards of clinical excellence and professionalism.
Carsia earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Hartford and her Associate of Science in Nursing from Capital Community College. She has pursued advanced graduate education in nursing with a focus on Family Nurse Practitioner practice, reflecting her commitment to expanding her clinical expertise and providing comprehensive care across the lifespan.
Throughout her nursing career, Carsia has demonstrated strong leadership, clinical judgment, and the ability to effectively coordinate and supervise patient care. Her professional strengths include clinical assessment, care coordination, patient education, leadership, and a commitment to continuous professional development.
Mon–Fri
Vernon-Rockville, CT
Practice Manager
Patient Care
Aiholaney “Laney” Garcia is the heart of Shifa Clinic’s day-to-day operations. As Practice Manager, she plays a vital role in keeping the practice organized, efficient, and running smoothly, allowing the providers to remain focused on what matters most—delivering quality patient care.
With an extensive background in medical assisting and clinical research coordination, Laney brings a unique combination of clinical knowledge, organizational expertise, and compassion to her role. She continues to support the clinical team whenever needed, assisting with patient care and helping ensure that the needs of both patients and providers are met.
Known for her warm personality and genuine compassion, Laney strives to make every patient feel valued, respected, and cared for. She believes that every person deserves to feel that their health matters. One of the qualities that makes her especially meaningful to the Shifa Clinic community is her effort to know patients by name and build personal connections with them.
Laney is dedicated to creating an environment where patients feel welcomed, supported, and confident that they are receiving care from a team that truly cares about them. Her commitment to the clinic, its providers, staff, and patients makes her an integral part of the Shifa Clinic family.
Mon–Fri
Vernon-Rockville, CT
Front Desk Supervisor
Patient Care
Besarta “Bee” serves as the Front Desk Supervisor, where she plays an essential role in ensuring the smooth and efficient day-to-day operations of the practice. Known for her warm and friendly greeting, Bee creates a welcoming experience for patients from the moment they arrive.
In her supervisory role, Bee coordinates patient visits, referrals, prior authorizations, and medical records while overseeing the daily activities of the front desk. Her organizational skills, attention to detail, and dedication to patient service help keep the practice running efficiently and ensure that patients receive timely assistance with their healthcare needs.
In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Bee is a Certified Phlebotomist and has received Medical Assistant training through the practice. Her clinical training and hands-on experience allow her to support both the administrative and clinical teams.
Bee is committed to providing compassionate, professional, and patient-centered service while contributing to a positive and welcoming environment for both patients and staff.
Mon–Fri
Vernon-Rockville, CT
Patient Care Team
Patient Care
Shazia is a valued member of our beloved patient care team, dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive experience for every patient who walks through our doors. She plays an essential role in the day-to-day operations of the practice, assisting patients with check-in, appointment scheduling, and coordinating specialist referrals to help ensure continuity of care.
In addition to her patient-facing responsibilities, Shazia plays a key role in managing insurance prior authorizations, helping patients navigate the insurance process and facilitating access to necessary medications, treatments, and services. Her knowledge and experience in medical billing and coding further strengthen her ability to support both our patients and clinical team.
With her compassion, organizational skills, and strong understanding of healthcare administration, Shazia is an integral part of our team. Her commitment to helping patients and supporting the smooth operation of the practice reflects the values of exceptional, patient-centered care that our practice strives to provide.
Mon–Fri
Vernon-Rockville, CT
Certified Medical Assistant
Patient Care
Jola is a dedicated and compassionate Certified Medical Assistant and (CMA) an integral member of our healthcare team. Known for her exceptional customer service and warm, welcoming personality, Jola is committed to ensuring that every patient feels comfortable, respected, and well cared for throughout their visit.
In her role, Jola works closely with patients and the clinical team to help ensure their needs are met and that each visit runs smoothly. She also assists with specialist referral coordination and insurance prior authorizations, helping patients navigate important aspects of their healthcare with care and attention to detail.
Jola has a genuine passion for helping and caring for others, with a special love for working with children. Her kind heart, patience, and compassionate nature are evident in the way she interacts with patients each day. Her warm smile and positive attitude help create a welcoming environment where patients feel valued and cared for.
Mon–Fri
Vernon-Rockville, CT
Certified Medical Assistant
Patient Care
Sena is the newest member of our team and a valued addition to Shifa Clinic. She is a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) who is cross-trained in front-desk operations, allowing her to support both the clinical and administrative needs of our patients.
Sena assists patients with their healthcare needs, helps coordinate care when necessary, and works closely with the team to ensure a smooth and positive patient experience. Her kindness, professionalism, and compassionate approach help patients feel heard, respected, and understood.
Mon–Fri
Vernon-Rockville, CT
Primary Care
Mohamed A. Hussain, APRN, MBBS, Board-certified family nurse practitioner through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Mohamed is a dedicated healthcare professional whose journey into medicine began in India with a childhood dream of becoming a physician. In 1993, he achieved that dream when he graduated from Karnataka University with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS).
After relocating to the United States, Mohamed continued to expand his education and professional expertise. In 2002, he earned a Master’s degree in Business from the University of Hartford, developing a strong foundation in healthcare leadership, administration, and business management. In 2013, he completed his Master’s degree in Advanced Nursing Practice from Quinnipiac University, further strengthening his ability to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care.
Driven by hard work, compassion, and a commitment to serving his community, Mohamed established his own medical practice to create a family-oriented healthcare environment where patients feel respected, heard, and cared for. His approach to medicine extends beyond treating individual symptoms or illnesses. He believes that healthcare should address the whole person, recognizing the importance of physical health, emotional well-being, lifestyle, family, and the individual needs of each patient.
Primary Care
Annie Augustine, MSN, RN, Board-certified Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-BC). Annie is an experienced healthcare professional with an extensive nursing background spanning acute care, critical care, neonatal intensive care, rehabilitation, psychiatric care, addiction services, long-term care, and primary care. She brings more than three decades of nursing experience and advanced practice training to the delivery of compassionate, evidence-based, patient-centered healthcare.
Annie earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) from American Sentinel Nursing and Health Sciences at Post University in Waterbury, Connecticut, completing the program in March 2024. She previously earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from American Sentinel University in Colorado in 2014 and her General Nursing and Midwifery Associate Degree from JMH, Thrissur, Kerala, India, in 1986.
Primary Care
Sarita Lewis, APRN, BSN, RN, CNE, RN Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner through American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Sarita is a highly experienced healthcare professional with more than 25 years of diverse clinical experience in emergency, trauma, urgent care, surgical, and acute-care settings. She holds a Master’s degree in Advanced Nursing Practice and brings extensive clinical knowledge and expertise in providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients across the lifespan.
Throughout her distinguished nursing career, Sarita has developed exceptional expertise in emergency and trauma nursing, with a strong focus on the assessment and management of critically ill and medically complex patients. Her professional background includes experience in a Level I Trauma Center, where she cared for patients presenting with a broad range of acute and life-threatening conditions, including medical emergencies, traumatic injuries, chest pain, stroke, pediatric emergencies, behavioral health crises, and other high-acuity presentations.
Sarita is recognized for her strong clinical judgment, critical-thinking skills, and ability to remain calm and effective in rapidly changing and high-pressure environments.
Her extensive clinical background has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of patient care, from initial assessment and stabilization through ongoing treatment and follow-up. Sarita is committed to delivering safe, patient-centered, and evidence-based care, while treating every patient with dignity, compassion, and respect.
As an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Sarita brings together her extensive bedside nursing experience, advanced clinical knowledge, and dedication to patient education and preventive healthcare. She is passionate about helping patients achieve better health outcomes and believes in building trusting, long-term relationships with the individuals and families she serves.
Primary Care
Shahida, MSN, FNP-C, APRN, is a dual Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner credentialed through both the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), with more than 17 years of comprehensive healthcare experience.
She earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University, graduating with honors. Her diverse clinical background includes primary care, women’s health, adult medical-surgical care, and pediatrics, providing her with a broad perspective on the healthcare needs of patients across the lifespan.
Shahida is dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based, and individualized care, with a strong emphasis on patient education, preventive health, and building meaningful provider-patient relationships. She strives to empower each patient to take an active role in their health and is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care across the lifespan.
Practice Manager
Aiholaney “Laney” Garcia is the heart of Shifa Clinic’s day-to-day operations. As Practice Manager, she plays a vital role in keeping the practice organized, efficient, and running smoothly, allowing the providers to remain focused on what matters most—delivering quality patient care.
With an extensive background in medical assisting and clinical research coordination, Laney brings a unique combination of clinical knowledge, organizational expertise, and compassion to her role. She continues to support the clinical team whenever needed, assisting with patient care and helping ensure that the needs of both patients and providers are met.
Known for her warm personality and genuine compassion, Laney strives to make every patient feel valued, respected, and cared for. She believes that every person deserves to feel that their health matters. One of the qualities that makes her especially meaningful to the Shifa Clinic community is her effort to know patients by name and build personal connections with them.
Laney is dedicated to creating an environment where patients feel welcomed, supported, and confident that they are receiving care from a team that truly cares about them. Her commitment to the clinic, its providers, staff, and patients makes her an integral part of the Shifa Clinic family.
Primary Care
Carsia Denise Simms, APRN, BSN, RN Board-certified Family Nurse practitioner through American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Carsia is a dedicated and highly experienced registered nurse with more than 14 years of clinical experience and a strong background in nursing supervision and patient care. She is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based, and patient-centered care while maintaining high standards of clinical excellence and professionalism.
Carsia earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Hartford and her Associate of Science in Nursing from Capital Community College. She has pursued advanced graduate education in nursing with a focus on Family Nurse Practitioner practice, reflecting her commitment to expanding her clinical expertise and providing comprehensive care across the lifespan.
Throughout her nursing career, Carsia has demonstrated strong leadership, clinical judgment, and the ability to effectively coordinate and supervise patient care. Her professional strengths include clinical assessment, care coordination, patient education, leadership, and a commitment to continuous professional development.
Front Desk Supervisor
Besarta “Bee” serves as the Front Desk Supervisor, where she plays an essential role in ensuring the smooth and efficient day-to-day operations of the practice. Known for her warm and friendly greeting, Bee creates a welcoming experience for patients from the moment they arrive.
In her supervisory role, Bee coordinates patient visits, referrals, prior authorizations, and medical records while overseeing the daily activities of the front desk. Her organizational skills, attention to detail, and dedication to patient service help keep the practice running efficiently and ensure that patients receive timely assistance with their healthcare needs.
In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Bee is a Certified Phlebotomist and has received Medical Assistant training through the practice. Her clinical training and hands-on experience allow her to support both the administrative and clinical teams.
Bee is committed to providing compassionate, professional, and patient-centered service while contributing to a positive and welcoming environment for both patients and staff.
Patient Care Team
Shazia is a valued member of our beloved patient care team, dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive experience for every patient who walks through our doors. She plays an essential role in the day-to-day operations of the practice, assisting patients with check-in, appointment scheduling, and coordinating specialist referrals to help ensure continuity of care.
In addition to her patient-facing responsibilities, Shazia plays a key role in managing insurance prior authorizations, helping patients navigate the insurance process and facilitating access to necessary medications, treatments, and services. Her knowledge and experience in medical billing and coding further strengthen her ability to support both our patients and clinical team.
With her compassion, organizational skills, and strong understanding of healthcare administration, Shazia is an integral part of our team. Her commitment to helping patients and supporting the smooth operation of the practice reflects the values of exceptional, patient-centered care that our practice strives to provide.
Certified Medical Assistant
Jola is a dedicated and compassionate Certified Medical Assistant and (CMA) an integral member of our healthcare team. Known for her exceptional customer service and warm, welcoming personality, Jola is committed to ensuring that every patient feels comfortable, respected, and well cared for throughout their visit.
In her role, Jola works closely with patients and the clinical team to help ensure their needs are met and that each visit runs smoothly. She also assists with specialist referral coordination and insurance prior authorizations, helping patients navigate important aspects of their healthcare with care and attention to detail.
Jola has a genuine passion for helping and caring for others, with a special love for working with children. Her kind heart, patience, and compassionate nature are evident in the way she interacts with patients each day. Her warm smile and positive attitude help create a welcoming environment where patients feel valued and cared for.
Certified Medical Assistant
Sena is the newest member of our team and a valued addition to Shifa Clinic. She is a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) who is cross-trained in front-desk operations, allowing her to support both the clinical and administrative needs of our patients.
Sena assists patients with their healthcare needs, helps coordinate care when necessary, and works closely with the team to ensure a smooth and positive patient experience. Her kindness, professionalism, and compassionate approach help patients feel heard, respected, and understood.
