Healthcare Unity Group extends reach in New Jersey with emphasis on inclusive healthcare

Pandemic’s aftermath prompted doctors to take their practices in new direction

Jersey City, N.J. – In an effort to bolster inclusivity and deliver comprehensive services, Healthcare Unity Group, Inc. (HUG) has recently broadened its presence in New Jersey. Established by Dr. Anthony Walko and Dr. Richard Minuski, HUGNJ.ORG has just inaugurated an office in Jersey City and plans to open another location in Kearny, N.J., in early 2024.

HUG provides a wide spectrum of healthcare services with a primary focus on HIV care and related services. These include HIV testing, treatment and prevention (PrEP). Additionally, HUG administers testing and treatment for hepatitis B and C and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

A hallmark of HUG is its unwavering commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community.

“We understand the distinct needs of this community and our team is deeply committed to addressing them,” said Dr. Walko, the CEO of HUG. “The mission here is to foster an inclusive healthcare environment, so every patient experiences a sense of value and respect.”

Dr. Walko is a chiropractic physician and holds a Masters degree in nursing as an Adult-Getontolgy nurse practitioner. Dr. Walko is also certified by the American Academy of HIV Medicine as an HIV specialist. Dr. Minuski is a chiropractic physician and registered nurse and serves as the Chief Operating Officer of HUG.

The leadership team also includes Dr. Ajay Desai, DO, an osteopathic physician and the organization’s medical director. Rene Evans, a certified nurse’s aide and phlebotomist, is the clinical coordinator for HUG.

The organization’s journey began when the two founding doctors were providing care in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Their attention pivoted suddenly as they observed the profound repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic in the lives of Americans.

“We witnessed a distressing surge in drug abuse, homelessness and infectious diseases in the United States, and we knew we had to act,” said Dr. Minuski. “Our aim was to establish an affordable healthcare avenue, accessible to everyone.”

In tandem with its HIV care services, HUG offers primary care services, mental health support, chiropractic care and nutrition services. The staff comprises multilingual healthcare professionals, ensuring easy access for non-English speakers. Telemedicine services are also available to assist those with limited access.

“We’re doing everything we can to make our services accessible to all segments of our community, to remove any barriers to care,” Dr. Walko said. “The new office in Jersey City and the opening of the Kearny office will really help boost those efforts. We’re looking forward to it.”