Mid-Level Practitioners

Kimberly Molitor Fordham, FNP-C

I became a healthcare provider because I want to make a difference in the lives of my patients and I truly enjoy caring for others. Acute and chronic pain conditions can affect an individual’s quality of life. As the patient’s advocate, I aim to develop treatment plans with the best outcomes so my patients can get back to their lives and what they love to do.

I was born and raised in Lake Charles, Louisiana, where I also studied at McNeese State University. I graduated with an associate degree in nursing in 2009 and a bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2014. As a registered nurse, I’ve worked in various fields of nursing, including substance abuse rehab, oncology, orthopedics, wound care, and day surgery. After working as a nurse for several years, I decided to broaden my scope of practice by pursuing a master’s degree in nursing. My preceptorship included 600 hours of clinical practice, with most of my training in internal medicine at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. I graduated in 2018 as a family nurse practitioner, and I am nationally certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and licensed with prescriptive authority through the Texas State Board of Nursing.

In my spare time, I enjoy camping, biking, and trying new foods with my friends and family.

Teresa Hoang, FNP-C

I am a family nurse practitioner who works closely with a team of specialized physicians and staff to ensure comprehensive, individualized patient care. I completed my bachelor’s degree in nursing at Lamar University in 2009 and my master’s degree in nursing at Texas Woman’s University in 2014. I then completed my Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) certification under the National Institute of First Assisting (NIFA) as a first assistant in surgery and am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). I am deeply integrated with the orthopedic surgeons to provide the best possible care for each individual’s needs.

Outside of patient care, I enjoy cooking, experiencing new cultures and foods, and traveling around the world with my husband and two kids.

Farah Moawad, FNP-C

I often visited my relatives overseas when I was younger, and that’s when I became aware of the medical disparities around the world. That realization is the reason I chose to pursue a career in the medical field. My motivation for pursuing a career with Minivasive Pain and Orthopedics stemmed from my personal experience within this specialty as I, too, have endured a debilitating back injury. It was only after the combined efforts of both orthopedic and pain management treatments that I was able to restore my quality of life, reduce my pain, and get back to doing the things I love.

I was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and obtained my bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center. I worked in the Medical ICU for several years to help very sick patients. I always knew I wanted to obtain a higher level of education and play a more active role in patient care therefore I pursued my master’s degree at The University of Texas Health Science Center and became a Nurse Practitioner.

My goal at work is to help my patients leave all our facilities feeling heard, cared for, and in a better state of health. At Minivasive Pain and Orthopedics, we strive to offer our patients the best quality evidence-based care, and our personal approach is unmatched.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also participate in outdoor activities and travel to help improve my physical and mental health.

Mercedita Lei Refugio, FNP-C, RNFA

My professional journey began overseas at the Philippine Women’s University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in nursing. My family and I moved to the United States in 2005 and there I started my nursing career in Chicago, Illinois.

While in Chicago, I worked in a diverse set of roles, including staff nurse, preceptor, charge nurse, nursing supervisor and eventually earned a promotion to nursing manager. Seeking career growth and with the desire to continue learning, I pursued my Family Nurse Practitioner Degree at the Chamberlain University College of Nursing and graduated with honors. Later, I decided to move to Houston, Texas with my family to continue my journey in the healthcare world. Before beginning my first job as a family nurse practitioner, I took two nursing certifications to advance my training.

As an advanced practice nurse, I believe that listening, evaluating, formulating, educating, and collaborating are the keys to providing a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. With a background as a professor in the Philippines, I know that keeping patients well-informed regarding the status of their health is vital for decision making, and that each individual is considered a partner in their own care. Additionally, I strive to stay current on new treatments and techniques to remain a lifelong learner and competent care provider. Recently, I completed the First Assistant Training at the National Institute of First Assisting.

Outside of work, I love cooking and traveling with my family.