Current Residents
First-Year Residents
David Beckett, DO
My name is David Beckett. Originally being from Phoenix, I went to NAU for undergrad where I decided to pursue medicine. After working in clinical research and obtaining a masters degree, I decided to go to Western University in Lebanon, Oregon where I had the opportunity to work with underserved populations and be one of the leaders for a local free clinic that predominately assisted Spanish speakers and those without insurance. With this being one of the highlights of my medical school experience, I knew I wanted to continue that type of care into residency. That led me to return to Arizona and join El Rio where I am surrounded by other like-minded individuals dedicated to helping others.
When I am not working on my studies and working, I enjoy lifting weights, participating in races, watching the Seahawks, and hanging out with my son, wife, and bulldogs.
Alejandra Pagan Cruz, MD
My name is Alejandra M Pagan, I am originally from Puerto Rico. My interest in medicine started when my youngest sister became ill, and I witnessed the compassion and dedication of the physicians involved in her care. That experience inspired me to pursue a career in medicine.
I completed my medical education at the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in Jalisco, Mexico, and did my clinical rotations in Tucson, Arizona. During that time, I fell in love with the community and its diverse population. I am grateful to continue my training and practice at El Rio Health, where I am committed to giving back to the community that has given me so much. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym and hiking.
Juan Sanchez, MD
My name is Juan Sanchez. I am originally from the Phoenix-metropolitan area and moved down to Tucson to attend the University of Arizona for undergrad. I instantly noticed Tucson’s vibrant community, enriched with various cultures, cuisines, and a multitude of hiking trails and outdoor activities. I ultimately decided to return to Tucson and attend medical school at the University of Arizona. Throughout my medical education, I frequently heard about El Rio Health’s commitment to providing equitable and affordable care to the community, aligning with my own values and making my decision to apply to El Rio clear.
Ethan VanDemark, MD
My name is Ethan VanDemark, and I am a first-year family medicine resident at El Rio Health. I moved to Arizona at a young age and have since called this great state home. I grew up in the Phoenix area before attending the University of Arizona, where I studied neuroscience and cognitive science with an emphasis in cognition, along with minors in biochemistry and chemistry. During my college years, largely influenced by the widespread impact of COVID-19, I decided to pursue a career in medicine. I was accepted to Creighton University School of Medicine in Phoenix, Arizona, where I spent four meaningful years learning allopathic medicine while working with a diverse patient population in the Phoenix area.
I already had extensive knowledge of Tucson from my time in college and knew it would be a place where I would be happy long term. When applying for residency, Tucson was high on my list. Since starting at El Rio Family Medicine this summer, I have been very surprised and thankful for the amazing opportunities provided. I have found a strong sense of purpose serving the Tucson community. Residency feels very different from medical school, in a positive way. Being a PCP for a wide range of patients is a privilege and something I look forward to each and every day.