December 6, 2024
The Travis County Medical Society has selected Dr. Hemali Patel as the 2024 Humanitarian of the Year! As the director of Central Health’s Transitions of Care program, Dr. Patel has made quite an impression on her patients, colleagues, and the medical community.
During the Travis County Medical Society’s annual awards dinner last night, they awarded Dr. Patel for her dedication to improving healthcare access and outcomes for vulnerable populations in Travis County.
Dr. Patel played a key role in establishing the Transitions of Care (TOC) program in 2022 and has since expanded its reach. Her team ensures seamless coordination for patients as they transition between hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient services, and other programs. Beyond care coordination, the TOC team serves as fierce advocates for their patients, preventing them from falling through the gaps in the healthcare system.
Dr. Patel is grateful and humble about the recognition, and says her patients inspire her. “When you see the difference you make in someone’s life — even if it takes a year or two — it is such a profound moment.”
Dr. Hemali Patel
From left to right: Dr. Alan Schalscha, Dr. Hemali Patel, Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, Dr. Audrey Kuang, and Dr. John Weems
Congratulations to Dr. Patel for receiving this well-earned recognition. Thank you for your passion, dedication, and advocacy.
Congratulations are also in order for our partner over at CommUnityCare. Dr. John Weems was honored as the Ruth M. Bain Young Physician of the Year last night at the awards dinner.
Continuing Central Health’s Legacy
Dr. Patel is not the only Central Health leader to receive the Humanitarian of the Year award. In 2022, Dr. Audrey Kuang, Director of High-Risk Populations, was honored for her work with unhoused patients, while Chief Medical Officer Dr. Alan Schalscha was recognized in 2019 for his dedication to health equity.
The Central Health system continues to shine in the local medical community, and we couldn’t be prouder of these leaders who embody our mission to create equitable healthcare for all.