Health First, Parrish Healthcare and BIMDA Form Exclusive Two-Year Community Partnership

Healthcare Collaboration Targets Future Growth and Patient Access in Brevard County

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — Health First and Parrish Healthcare have entered into a two-year exclusive joint presenting sponsorship agreement with the Brevard Indo-American Medical and Dental Association (BIMDA), a move aimed at strengthening collaboration among some of Brevard County’s most prominent healthcare organizations.

Officials said the agreement, which runs through 2026 and 2027, is designed to reinforce a shared commitment to keeping high-quality, accessible healthcare in Brevard County so residents can receive care close to home.

Through the partnership, the three organizations will work together to host community events, educational programs, networking opportunities and celebrations focused on health, medicine and community engagement.

Dr. Ashok Shah, BIMDA sponsorship chair and past president, said the partnership reflects the organization’s mission of bringing together medical professionals of Indian heritage while advancing education, culture and charitable efforts across Central Florida.

“BIMDA was created and exists primarily to serve as a mission-based organization, bringing together physicians, dentists, and other medical scientists of Indian heritage across Brevard County and Central Florida, in further pursuit of educational, cultural and charitable opportunities,” Shah said.

He added that partnering with Health First and Parrish Healthcare aligns with BIMDA’s goal of improving health and wellness throughout the community.

Health First President and CEO Terry Forde said the agreement underscores the importance of collaboration and local investment as Brevard County continues to grow.

“The future of Brevard County has never been brighter,” Forde said. “As we look ahead and work to meet the healthcare needs of a growing and dynamic Space Coast, it is crucial that we prioritize keeping care local. This partnership is a direct reflection of our commitment to ensuring that residents, families and visitors can access the highest quality healthcare right here in Brevard County—without having to leave our community.”

Parrish Healthcare CEO George Mikitarian also highlighted the value of partnerships in improving community health.

“I have long supported the importance of collaborative partnerships as a key driver for a healthier, safer community,” Mikitarian said. “This agreement further underscores our joint commitment to a better Brevard—through education, the sharing of ideas, resources and information, and the celebration of medical excellence.”

Leaders from all three organizations said the agreement is intended not only to meet current healthcare needs, but also to help build a stronger, more connected healthcare environment for the Space Coast in the years ahead.

 

BIMDA, founded in 1996, is one of Central Florida’s leading organizations for medical and dental professionals of Indian heritage, with a mission centered on education, science, culture and charitable work.

Health First has served Brevard County for more than three decades through its network of hospitals and healthcare services, while Parrish Healthcare includes Parrish Medical Center, Parrish Medical Group and the Parrish Health Network, focusing on quality, safety and integrated care across the region.

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