2 LI Gurwin Healthcare System Caregivers Receive Awards

COMMACK, NY — Jenny Meade of Island Nursing and Rehab Center located in Holtsville and Martiza Gonzalez of Gurwin Jewish Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Commack were named 2025 recipients of the United Hospital Fund’s (UHF) Tribute to Excellence in Health Care Award for Quality Improvement Champions, Gurwin Healthcare System announced.

The Excellence in Health Care Award for Quality Improvement Champions was established by UHF in 2019 to honor "extraordinary personal leadership to improve quality of care, patient safety and patient experience," according to a news release. Honorees are selected for their vision and accomplishments by participating hospital systems, long-term care facilities, home care organizations, independent practice associations and federally qualified health centers from across the greater New York metropolitan region.

Meade, a speech language pathologist who lives in Center Moriches, was recognized for her "personalized, empathetic approach to care that consistently leads to improved outcomes and enhanced patient experiences" at Island Nursing and Rehab Center, a member of Gurwin Healthcare System, according to Gurwin.

Maritza Gonzalez, director of MDS at Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Commack, "leads with compassion and precision, mentoring her team while ensuring quality care through careful oversight of documentation and metrics," according to the healthcare system. Gonzalez is a resident of West Islip.

"We are incredibly proud to have not one, but two exceptional members of our Gurwin team honored by United Hospital Fund," Stuart B. Almer, president and CEO of Gurwin Healthcare System, said in a news release. "Jenny and Martiza’s dedication to advancing patient care reflects the shared commitment to excellence that defines our entire organization. This recognition is a testament to their hard work, innovation and unwavering focus on improving outcomes for those we serve."