At the 2025 NJBIZ Healthcare Heroes Awards, held on June 24 at The Palace at Somerset Park, two exceptional healthcare leaders were recognized for their unwavering commitment to the people of New Jersey. Dr. Rupen Parikh, Chief Medical Officer, was honored as Health Care Professional of the Year, while Dr. Tushar Patel, President of Health Camp of New Jersey (HCNJ), received the Public Health Hero Award.
Both physicians have played pivotal roles in shaping community health through HCNJ, a nonprofit founded in 1999 that provides free health services to underserved residents across New Jersey. Their work has impacted over 13,500 individuals, helping detect more than 4,200 chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer—many in early stages, enabling timely treatment and intervention.
Dr. Patel became a beacon of reliable information during the COVID-19 pandemic. He spearheaded community-based health outreach using virtual seminars and multilingual media, coordinated local vaccination drives, and brought much-needed clarity during a time of fear and confusion. His proactive approach ensured that vulnerable populations had access to trusted health guidance and critical care resources.
The NJBIZ awards, presented this year by Hackensack Meridian Health, have long celebrated healthcare excellence across New Jersey. Categories include Physician of the Year, Mental Health Hero, Nurse of the Year, Innovation Hero, and more. A highlight of the evening was the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Robert Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health, for his transformational work in building New Jersey’s largest healthcare network. Over 300 professionals and leaders attended the event to honor achievements in medical service, innovation, and compassion.
Looking forward, HCNJ has unveiled a new initiative—a permanent, full-time Community Health Center in Central New Jersey. This facility aims to transition their successful mobile health model into a more sustainable, year-round operation. The center will provide primary care, chronic condition management, immunizations, dental and mental health support, and educational services such as nutrition and wellness programs.
Designed with underserved and immigrant communities in mind, this center will help eliminate long-standing barriers to care, including high costs, lack of insurance, and language access. The initiative promises a more inclusive, continuous, and culturally sensitive healthcare experience for thousands in need.
