Paul Abend named a 2026 NJ Top Doc

NJ Top Docs has reviewed and approved Paul Abend, DO, FAAPM&R, for its 2026 list based on merit. The recognition highlights his leadership at United Collaborative Group, his clinical roles in rehabilitation medicine, and his work expanding patient-centered care in New Jersey.

Why it matters: - NJ Top Docs’ 2026 recognition adds outside validation to Paul Abend’s role as a physician leader in rehabilitation, family medicine and sports medicine. - The honor also underscores his influence across clinical care, hospital leadership and access-to-care initiatives in New Jersey.

What happened: - NJ Top Docs reviewed and approved Paul Abend, DO, FAAPM&R, as a 2026 NJ Top Doc. - Abend is managing partner and co-founder of United Collaborative Group (MSO). - Abend also serves as Chief Medical Officer and partner of United Collaborative Group.

The details: - Abend holds dual board certification in Family Medicine and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. - His clinical focus includes pain relief, mobility restoration and movement optimization. - Abend began his medical education at UMDNJ–New Jersey School of Osteopathic Medicine. - He served as Chief Resident in both the Department of Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation, and Pain Medicine and the Department of Family Medicine at Rutgers–Robert Wood Johnson Hospital. - He completed a Sports Medicine Fellowship at Rutgers–Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. - Abend recently completed board recertification, keeping his certification active for the next five years. - His awards include the Distinguished Alumni Award from Rowan Osteopathic Medical School in 2021 and the Distinguished Alumni Award from Drew University in 2019. - He has also received the Jefferson Award for New Jersey State and Regional recognition and the Dr. Margaret Bauman Award.

Between the lines: - The recognition reflects a career built around both direct patient care and system-level leadership. - Abend’s portfolio suggests a physician who combines rehabilitation expertise with business and administrative influence. - His work in autism research and care appears to be a notable part of his broader professional profile.

What's next: - Abend continues as Chairman of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Medical Director of Inpatient and Outpatient Rehabilitation Services at RWJ Barnabas Hospital at Rahway. - He also serves as President of Union County Surgical Center. - Abend consults with multiple private equity healthcare organizations. - He was most recently appointed Medical Director of the JOGO Health Medicare Access Program. - NJ Top Docs directs readers to more information about Dr. Abend.