Our Hepatology Capabilities
Your Partner in Hepatic Research
Active Locations
With experience in liver and metabolic trials across diverse communities
Start-Up Average Time
A streamlined process for site activation, ensuring swift and efficient readiness from study award
Individuals in Our Database
Our extensive database includes people with diverse liver and metabolic conditions, representing varied backgrounds and communities, supporting inclusive and impactful research
Supporting Research Progress in Obesity, MASH, and Hypertriglyceridemia
Our Reach and Capabilities
Diverse Community Engagement:
With 76.87% of our enrollment coming from diverse backgrounds, we are committed to proactive recruitment strategies that ensure our trials truly represent the communities we serve.
On-Site Capabilities:
Comprehensive screening with FibroScan and advanced imaging, supported by trained staff, liver biopsy capabilities, and an in-house PMBC lab and pharmacy.
Expert Clinical Team:
Skilled Clinical Research Coordinators, regulatory specialists, patient recruitment experts, and other specialists dedicated to quality and compliance.
Our Dedicated Research Professionals
Augusto Focil, M.D., M.P.H.
Internal Medicine
Oxnard, CA
Dr. Focil is a highly respected physician and clinical investigator with over 30 years of experience in internal medicine, family health, and preventive medicine, specializing in complex metabolic conditions, including obesity, MASH, NASH, and NAFLD.
A valedictorian graduate from Universidad Católica Santiago de Guayaquil and alumnus of UCLA School of Medicine, Dr. Focil has an extensive background in patient care and research. As the owner and medical director of Clinicas Mi Salud, a leading healthcare facility in Southern California, he oversees comprehensive services, including a dedicated Phase I unit. Dr. Focil’s clinical research experience spans nearly 15 years and over 50 studies, particularly excelling in studies related to metabolic diseases. His dedication to advancing knowledge in this field has led him to be among the top enrollers in various vaccine and metabolic trials.
Karen Simon, M.D.
Gastroenterology
Camarillo, CA
Dr. Karen Simon is a distinguished physician with a specialized focus in gastrointestinal medicine, bringing extensive expertise in conditions such as MASH, NASH, UC, and Crohn’s disease.
After earning her BA from Stanford University and MD from Northwestern University, Dr. Simon completed her residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and pursued advanced training through a fellowship at UCLA and Cedars, underscoring her commitment to excellence in patient care and research. Over her career, Dr. Simon has conducted more than 23 clinical trials, significantly contributing to advancements in the gastrointestinal field. Her role as a speaker for Exact Sciences and membership on the Takeda Chloride Channel Council reflect her active engagement with industry advancements, while her contributions to the St. John’s Hospital Ethics Committee highlight her dedication to ethical standards in healthcare. As a passionate educator, Dr. Simon frequently lectures on topics such as colorectal cancer screening, reinforcing her commitment to preventive healthcare and patient education.
Elias Tarakji, M.D.
Gastroenterology
Arcadia, CA
Dr. Tarakji is a highly experienced gastroenterologist with over 25 years in practice, recognized for his expertise in gastrointestinal conditions, including a specialized focus on MASH, NASH, and other liver-related disorders.
His extensive training at Wayne State University School of Medicine and the Detroit Medical Center, including residency, chief residency, and fellowship, has equipped him with a robust foundation in advanced gastroenterology. As a dedicated practitioner, Dr. Tarakji is skilled in advanced endoscopic procedures and screening colonoscopies, demonstrating his commitment to early detection and prevention of gastrointestinal diseases. With a record of over 14 clinical trials as a principal or sub-investigator, Dr. Tarakji has contributed to advancing treatments in gastroenterology, particularly in liver and metabolic health. In his role as Medical Director of Valley Digestive Health Center, and through leadership positions at Arcadia Methodist Hospital, Dr. Tarakji continues to impact the field, combining patient-centered care with a commitment to clinical research excellence.
Keval Shah, D.O.
Gastroenterology
Santa Maria, CA
Dr. Shah is a distinguished gastroenterologist and hepatologist with extensive experience in MASH, NASH, and other liver-related conditions, supported by a robust educational background and a broad array of certifications.
Board-certified in Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, and Hepatology, Dr. Shah completed his residency at St. John Providence Health System in Detroit and pursued a Gastroenterology and Hepatology fellowship at Beaumont Health System. His specialized training in hepatology and inflammatory bowel disease at Henry Ford Hospital underscores his comprehensive understanding of complex gastrointestinal and hepatic conditions. Dr. Shah’s expertise is further enhanced by advanced clinical training in motility through a fellowship with the American Neurogastroenterology Motility Society at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. His clinical interests span nutrition and weight loss, esophageal disorders, and colorectal cancer screening, demonstrating a commitment to preventive care and a wide spectrum of gastrointestinal concerns. Dr. Shah has an extensive background in clinical trials, consistently contributing to the advancement of treatments for liver and gastrointestinal diseases, particularly in the fields of MASH and NASH. His clinical and research experience makes him a valuable Principal Investigator dedicated to innovative healthcare solutions.
Oguchi Nkwocha, M.D.
Family Medicine
Salinas, CA
Dr. Nkwocha is an esteemed Chief Medical Officer at Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas, bringing over 40 years of medical expertise with a strong focus on liver and metabolic diseases, including MASH and NASH.
With a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Idaho State University and an MD from the University of Utah School of Medicine, complemented by a Master’s in Predictive Analytics from Northwestern University, Dr. Nkwocha combines clinical insight with data-driven healthcare strategies. His extensive experience encompasses preventive care, chronic disease management, and acute illness treatment, emphasizing innovative approaches in metabolic health. Dr. Nkwocha also manages an electronic medical record (EMR) system supporting over 70,000 patients, reflecting his commitment to efficient and comprehensive healthcare delivery. As a leader of a multidisciplinary medical team, Dr. Nkwocha is dedicated to advancing patient outcomes through tailored, evidence-based care.
Explore Our Specialists
Why FOMAT?
Integrated Research
Capabilities spanning 25 sites and 56 locations, with 50 principal investigators accessing over 540,000 patients through partnerships with over 330 providers.
Site Network
Robust referring network of medical, radiation, surgical, and gynecology oncologists, as well as patient advocacy groups .
Diverse Patients
Access to varied patient backgrounds, characterized by our commitment to diversity.
Centralized Coordination
Single point of contact for regulatory, FQs, site activation, contracts, and more.
High-Quality Data
Reliable insights through rigorous data management.