Sanitas opening network of medical centers in New Jersey

The Sanitas Medical Center, working in collaboration with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield New Jersey and located at 3196 Kennedy Blvd., will start taking appointments in January with a focus on health disparities often suffered within the Hispanic population. Two other Sanitas Medical Centers are slated to open in Belleville and Jersey City in early 2018.

U.S. census data shows that Hispanics are the largest minority group in New Jersey and the number is projected to increase. Union City and other communities within Hudson County house one of the highest concentration of Hispanics.

“Our goal is to be there for people in the Latino community where they live and work in every corner of New Jersey. The Sanitas Medical Centers will be vital by providing access to much needed medical care as an alternative to the emergency room setting,” said Kevin Conlin, Horizon BCBSNJ executive vice president and chief operating officer, in a statement.

“We have selected a great medical team of local doctors, nurses and staff, and we’re thrilled to start caring for the community of Union City,” said Dr. Fernando Fonseca, Sanitas chief executive officer. “Our approach to care is centered on our patients and their families, giving them more time with their doctor and the convenience of a one-stop medical center for their everyday health care needs. Our expansion in New Jersey will continue to build upon our success in Florida and Connecticut as well as over 40 years of experience providing quality care to over 3 million people in South America.”

The Sanitas Medical Centers, including the Union City location, are independently owned and operated by Sanitas. They provide family primary care services, comprehensive urgent care, laboratory and diagnostic imaging services, and educational programs in wellness and disease management. A Horizon Connect retail center will be located on-site.