Dr. Esmaeili is the Medical Director at the Fudge Family Acute Rehabilitation
Center. He started his health care journey as an ER Tech, then a Registered
Nurse and later a Board Certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
physician. From 2002 -2018 he served as Medical Director of the Rehabilitation
Institute at Palomar Health in San Diego county, CA. His decision to specialize
in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation is a result of his medical rotation
on a Spinal Cord Injury unit. Dr. Esmaeili grew up admiring Albert Schweitzer
who was a missionary physician, humanitarian, theologian and Noble Peace
Prize winner. One of Albert Schweitzer’s quotes reflects Dr. Esmaeili
thinking: “Success is not the key to happiness, happiness is the
key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”
An important aspect of Dr. Esmaeili’s leadership is the understanding
of the team, and supporting nursing, therapy, social work and support
staff to achieve quality patient care. He understands the challenges and
contributions of every discipline in a rehabilitation team. He works with
staff members to influence and enhance their skills and knowledge, supporting
them to work at their full potential.
Dr. Esmaeili believes every patient has the potential to improve and move
closer to functional and cognitive independence.
Education & Training
Medical Education - American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Internship - Temple University School of Medicine (Transitional)
Residency - University of California Irvine (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation)