The George Subraj Family Foundation, empowered by Zara Realty, is extending its remarkable legacy of philanthropy by committing $1 million to Northwell Health to enhance cardiac care in Richmond Hill, Queens, and Guyana, South America. This generous contribution, facilitated through Northwell’s Center for Global Health (CGH), will fund critical education, training, and research programs designed to address disparities in cardiac health and improve outcomes for underserved communities.

This donation builds upon the foundation’s previous efforts, inspired by George Subraj’s passion for improving healthcare access in Guyana. In 2008, the foundation was instrumental in facilitating Guyana’s first successful kidney transplant, revolutionizing healthcare in the region and setting the stage for future advancements.

Expanding Access to Advanced Cardiac Care

The $1 million pledge will help Northwell Health create sustainable cardiac care initiatives in Richmond Hill, Queens — home to a significant Guyanese population — and in Guyana, where specialized cardiac services remain scarce. By leveraging Northwell’s expertise, the program will focus on training healthcare providers, educating communities, and conducting research to address the growing burden of heart disease in both regions.

Dr. Rajiv Jauhar, vice chairman of the Sandra Atlas Bass Heart Hospital at North Shore University Hospital, has dedicated over two decades to serving the Queens community and has witnessed the alarming prevalence of heart disease firsthand.

“Cardiovascular disease poses a significant challenge to Guyanese populations in both Guyana and Richmond Hill, Queens, due to a combination of cultural, dietary, and genetic factors,” said Dr. Jauhar. “In 1968, heart disease rates among South Asians, Guyanese Americans, and white/Caucasian Americans were similar. Since then, heart disease among Caucasian Americans has declined by 50%, while rates among the Guyanese population have increased drastically. This disparity is deeply concerning and demands immediate action.”

Dr. Jauhar’s commitment to improving cardiac health for the Guyanese community perfectly aligns with the mission of the George Subraj Family Foundation and Northwell Health’s ongoing efforts to address healthcare inequities.

A Comprehensive Plan to Improve Cardiac Outcomes

The investment will fund a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach to enhance cardiac care:

• Community Outreach: Culturally sensitive outreach efforts will equip trained community health workers to provide heart health education, screenings, and prevention workshops tailored to the Guyanese population in Queens. Focus groups, surveys, and data analysis will identify at-risk populations and guide targeted interventions. Public events and awareness programs will encourage healthy lifestyles, regular check-ups, and better access to preventive care.

• Fellowship Programs: Each year, two Guyanese physicians will undergo specialized training at Northwell Health in cardiology fields such as interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. The six-month program will provide hands-on experience, virtual case reviews, and mentorship from New York-based Guyanese physicians, strengthening the cardiology workforce in Guyana.

• Physician Training: Primary care physicians in Guyana will receive training in cardiac ultrasound techniques and emergency cardiac care protocols, improving frontline cardiac care delivery. In Richmond Hill, the program will enhance referral systems from primary care providers to cardiologists for high-risk patients. Additionally, physicians will be trained in lifestyle counseling to help patients manage risk factors through healthier habits.

• Advanced Cardiac Techniques: Specialized training for local cardiologists in Guyana will focus on advanced cardiac procedures and techniques, ensuring that specialized expertise is available within the country.

• Research and Data Analysis: Research initiatives will analyze cardiac health trends in the Guyanese population, helping develop tailored interventions to address specific challenges and improve long-term outcomes.

Building on the Little Guyana Initiative

This collaboration between Northwell Health and the George Subraj Family Foundation builds upon the success of the Little Guyana Initiative, a Northwell-funded program led by LIJ Forest Hills Hospital under the guidance of hospital president Lorraine Chambers-Lewis, PA-C. This initiative addresses health disparities in Richmond Hill, where a 2023-24 health assessment revealed alarmingly high rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and sudden death among Guyanese Americans.

“I’m thrilled that Northwell Health has received such a generous donation to enhance cardiac care for our Richmond Hill community — affectionately known as Little Guyana here in Queens,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “Investing in our healthcare system remains a top priority for my office, and by working together, we’re ensuring that all members of our community have the resources they need to lead healthier lives.”

A rep from New York City Council Member Lynn Schulman’s office (D-29, Queens) echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of addressing health disparities. “The collaboration between Northwell Health and the George Subraj Family Foundation is a groundbreaking effort to improve cardiac care for the Guyanese community in both Guyana and Richmond Hill, Queens,” said Shulman’s rep. “By investing in advanced training for cardiologists and expanding access to cardiac care, we’re tackling critical healthcare disparities and ensuring that our vibrant Guyanese community receives the high-quality care they deserve.” Schulman, who also serves as chair of the New York City Council’s Committee on Health, underscored the significance of equitable healthcare access for all.

New Challenges as Guyana Experiences Rapid Growth

This initiative comes at a pivotal moment, as Guyana’s economy experiences unprecedented growth driven by the discovery of vast oil reserves. However, with economic expansion comes new health challenges.

“The economic boom in Guyana has created tremendous opportunities but has also introduced significant health challenges,” said Eric Cioè-Peña, MD, vice president of Global Health at Northwell Health. “We’re witnessing a concerning trend: the proliferation of fast-food chains and changing lifestyles are driving an increase in cardiovascular risk. This ‘importation’ of heart disease, linked to Western diets and lifestyle shifts, poses a serious threat to the health and well-being of the Guyanese population.”

A Legacy of Transforming Communities

“Our mission is clear: to empower communities with knowledge, resources, and care, transforming daunting statistics into stories of resilience, strength, and longevity,” said Tony Subraj, son of George Subraj and board member of the George Subraj Family Foundation. “Together, we’re building a lasting legacy of healthier communities and brighter futures,” added Amir Sobhraj, VP of Zara Realty.

Expanding Northwell’s Global Reach

This program adds to Northwell Health’s impressive portfolio of global health initiatives, which includes partnerships in Ecuador, India, the Dominican Republic, Kenya, and Uganda. These programs are designed to improve global health outcomes and build meaningful connections with communities worldwide.

Honoring a Vision of Compassion and Progress

The George Subraj Family Foundation’s $1 million donation highlights its unwavering dedication to fostering positive change through healthcare innovation. As Northwell Health implements these initiatives, the impact of this partnership will extend far beyond borders, offering hope and healing to countless individuals.

By continuing George Subraj’s compassionate vision, the foundation remains committed to empowering communities, strengthening healthcare systems, and saving lives. Through this transformative collaboration with Northwell Health, the George Subraj Family Foundation is not only honoring a lasting legacy but also shaping a healthier future for generations to come.