Hackensack Meridian Health & Wellness Center opens in Hewitt

Shown from left: Lucy Pereira-Argenziano, M.D., SVP, Ambulatory, chief medical officer,  Hackensack Meridian Health; Thomas Salazer, M.D., chief clinical officer, Northern Region, Hackensack Meridian Medical Group; Michael Geiger, SVP, Ambulatory Care and Network Development, Hackensack Meridian Health; Mark Sparta, FACHE, president, COO, Hackensack Meridian Health; West Milford Mayor Michele Dale;Councilwoman Marilyn Lichtenberg; George Guariglia, M.D., Family Medicine Physician; Lisa Tank, M.D., president, Hackensack University Medical Center; Dr. Brian Kitchin, superintendent of West Milford Schools

HEWITT, NJ – A new chapter in local healthcare dawned this morning with the celebratory ribbon-cutting of the newest Hackensack Meridian Health & Wellness Center. This state-of-the-art facility, poised to become a cornerstone of community well-being, is built upon the trusted foundation of Highlander Family Medicine, the practice of the esteemed Dr. George Guariglia. For decades, Dr. Guariglia has been a beloved and dedicated physician to the greater Hewitt community, and this new center is a direct expansion of his unwavering commitment.

The grand opening was a vibrant affair, attended by esteemed members of the community. Among the dignitaries present to mark this milestone were West Milford Mayor Michele Dale, Councilwoman Marilyn Lichtenberg, and the West Milford Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Brian Kitchin. They were joined by Mark Sparta, the Chief Operating Officer of Hackensack Meridian Health, and other leaders, physicians, and care teams from Hackensack Meridian Health, Hackensack Meridian Medical Group, and Hackensack University Medical Center, all thrilled to unveil the new space.

“This is more than just a new building; it’s a commitment to the health and vitality of our community,” said Dr. George Guariglia, whose practice is the bedrock of the new center. “Our goal is to provide high-quality, convenient, and seamless healthcare right where people live. By bringing a wide range of specialists and advanced diagnostics under one roof, we are making it easier for my patients and our entire community to get the care they need, when they need it.”

The new Health & Wellness Center, located at 1900 Union Valley Road, Suite 303, significantly expands the services available to residents. In addition to the comprehensive primary care that Dr. Guariglia and his team have provided for years, the center now offers specialized care in cardiology, gastroenterology, gynecology, orthopedics, and pediatrics.

A key feature of the new facility is its on-site advanced diagnostic and laboratory services, designed to provide faster results and a more streamlined patient experience. Residents will now have local access to crucial imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, general X-rays, and bone density testing. The inclusion of a full-service laboratory further reduces the need for patients to travel for essential tests.

The opening of the Hackensack Meridian Health & Wellness Center in Hewitt represents a significant investment in the long-term health of the community. It brings together the trusted, local care that residents have relied on for decades with the extensive resources and expertise of the Hackensack Meridian Health network, building a stronger, healthier future for all.