Staff

An Exceptional Gastroenterology Team with Distinguished Expertise

At Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital, you'll join a distinguished team of gastroenterology colleagues who bring diverse clinical expertise and extensive experience to the department. The camaraderie within this group creates a collaborative environment that fosters both professional growth and collegial support. Currently, the gastroenterology team includes five board-certified specialists who collectively offer a comprehensive range of GI services to the Charlottesville community.

Your future colleagues include Dr. David H. Balaban, a highly respected gastroenterologist with over 25 years of experience who has authored numerous journal articles and serves as the Director of Medical Nutrition Support Services. Dr. Emily M. Christman serves as a GI hospitalist with expertise in pancreatic disease, creating a natural partnership with your incoming hospitalist role. Dr. Diego A. Gomez brings over 35 years of experience with special focus on esophageal disorders and general GI conditions, while Dr. Arun Mannem, who joined the practice in 2016, contributes expertise in hepatology and inflammatory bowel disorders. Dr. Daniel J. Pambianco rounds out the team with his endoscopic expertise.

• Complementary clinical specializations among team members create comprehensive coverage across the gastroenterology spectrum
• Long-term stability within the group demonstrated by the tenure of several physicians
• Collaborative practice environment with colleagues who value communication and mutual support
• Strong reputation in the community with physicians who are highly rated by patients
• Academic engagement with several physicians contributing research publications and presentations
• Board certification across the entire gastroenterology team, reflecting commitment to excellence
• Modern practice infrastructure with support staff dedicated to gastroenterology services
• Integrated Epic EHR facilitating seamless communication and continuity of care

By joining this established team of respected gastroenterologists, you'll find yourself among colleagues who are not just exceptional clinicians but valued mentors and collaborators. The practice's stability, with several long-tenured physicians, speaks to the positive work environment and professional satisfaction that has kept these specialists committed to Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital for years. This positions you to step into a role where you can both contribute immediately and develop professionally with the support of experienced colleagues who understand the unique challenges and rewards of GI hospital medicine. Meet the GI Team