When family medicine doctor Amelia Pawaroo-Balram, M.D., was still in high school, she was considered a budding artist skilled at drawing and painting, who won awards in local competitions. Her parents thought she would follow that creative path in college, but she surprised them by saying, “I’m going to study medicine.”
Born in New York, she grew up in Montville, New Jersey, with her parents, who are from Guyana, South America. With ancestors from India, she completed her academic studies at St. Matthews University School of Medicine Grand Cayman, and her residency at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson, New Jersey.
Dr. Pawaroo-Balram began her practice with Hackensack Meridian Health in September 2023, and is now affiliated with Hackensack University Medical Center.
What fuels your passion for primary care?
Because of my international background, I enjoy working with people from different backgrounds, and I can assimilate into different scenarios. I like working as a team with my patients to achieve a common goal. Just like my patients, I get excited when the information comes together perfectly to achieve that.
What is your favorite thing to do?
Spending time with my 5-year-old daughter, Madison—who is going on age 20—is such a joy. She’s into art, as well. She told me she wants to be a doctor because then she can work with me!
What do you do now as philanthropy?
I fund the Wi-Fi at an orphanage in Guyana. When my daughter grows out of her clothes, I pack them up and send them there, too. I used to send baby bottles—I mean, I had 20 at one time, and I think of someone there who has none, and how important that one thing is to them. I want to continue to remain grounded, and this helps me.
If you could have dinner with anyone, past or present, who would that be?
Bill Gates. His story is so inspiring: dropping out of college, then starting Microsoft and doing so well as a global business leader and philanthropist. He used his creativity to mold technology, and it’s a big reason why we are where we are with tech today. I have a ton of questions for him!
Next Steps & Resources
- Meet our source Amelia Pawaroo-Balram, M.D.
- To make an appointment with Dr. Pawaroo-Balram or a family medicine specialist near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
- Learn more about family medicine services at Hackensack Meridian Health
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