Wayman Scott, Associate Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Relations at GBMC HealthCare, discusses the organization's efforts to increase healthcare access in Baltimore City. GBMC provides accessible primary care through a neighborhood office and an in-home geriatric program for older adults, addressing barriers like transportation and mobility. They also hire community health workers to spread awareness of available resources and offer personalized care, making healthcare more accessible for underserved populations.
At GBMC, our nurses are the cornerstone of exceptional care—combining clinical expertise with genuine compassion each day. We are thrilled to announce 12 of our outstanding nurses have been named winners of Baltimore magazine's Excellence in Nursing award, chosen from hundreds of nominations. Their inspiring contributions and innovative spirit will be showcased in the May issue of Baltimore magazine. Join us in celebrating these remarkable professionals whose dedication and heart set the standard for excellence in healthcare. Ashley Bandurchin, DNP, RN, CCRN, CSSGB, EBP-C, CENP Center for Nursing Practice Lydia B., BSN, RN, CEN, FNE-A Emergency Department/ Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Program Jessica Dunn, BSN, CRN Interventional Radiology Eyerusalem Hagos, NP Gilchrist Ashley M., MSN, RN, FNE-A/P, SANE-A Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Program JoAnn Parr, MSN, MS-HCM, RN, C Care Management Katie Pasqualini, BSN RN Unit 36 Sarah Prock, BSN, RN General Operating Room Darleen Sullivan, BSN, RN, CHPN Gilchrist Kayla Taylor, BSN, RN Gilchrist Holly Thorn, MSN, CRN Interventional Radiology Caitlin Kwedar-Wamba, BSN, RN Interventional Radiology
In a single moment, everything can change. Hearing you have cancer can be an overwhelming, challenging, and emotional experience. But at GBMC, you're never alone. At the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute at GBMC, patients have always been able to count on advanced technology with a singular focus on individualized care from a compassionate care team. With the opening of the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion, the new home for cancer care at GBMC, all the amazing services and staff people have come to expect will be centrally located for the convenience and comfort of patients. “Patients and their caregivers come to GBMC because they know they will be treated as individuals, each with their own medical needs and goals. This building gives them a warm welcome and assurance that the treatment they need is right here for them,” Paul Celano, MD, the Herman and Walter Samuelson Medical Director of the Berman Cancer Institute, said. “For months, my colleagues and a broad range of stakeholders met and imagined what we could offer patients in a state-of-the-art facility that brings all of us together. Now, it’s here and much more than we’d hoped.” The Berman Pavilion is a single destination for cancer care that provides a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment. Its 73,000 sq ft of sunlit, comfortable space is designed to meet patients’ needs. The new building features:A dedicated oncology pharmacy, diagnostic imaging center, and lab, all on siteAn Integrative Wellness Center for evidence-based symptom managementA revamped Boutique and Salon featuring products chosen to boost cancer patients’ spirits and meet their unique needs at an affordable price pointA revitalized Infusion Center with 26 infusion chairs, 10 private rooms, two isolation rooms, and gorgeous views The Berman Cancer Institute treats more than 12,000 patients a year. With the aging of the population as well as a national increase in cancer diagnoses in younger populations, the need for quality, compassionate, and expert cancer care services that cater to the needs of patients is paramount. GBMC HealthCare's President and CEO, John B. Chessare, MD, MPH, recognized the importance of this need and endorsed the project to ease the burden for people dealing with cancer and dramatically improve the patient experience. “Our vision at GBMC is to care for patients as if they were our own loved ones,” Dr. Chessare said. “Creating this space for patients to more easily navigate what can be a complex, challenging, and emotional experience was the right thing to do. I commend the teams who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to life, on time and under budget, with the best interest of our patients in mind.” Substantial philanthropic backing was instrumental in bringing this project to fruition, but it was foresight and a transformational lead gift from Sandra and Malcolm Berman that brought this project forward. “This has been on our minds and in our hearts for some time,” Sandra Berman, who has served on the GBMC Board of Directors for more than a decade, said. “Members of our family, close friends, and many people we care about have been successfully treated at GBMC. Now, we want to make a difference for people throughout the community who are on this difficult journey. I hope this makes it as easy as possible for people to get better.” At GBMC, patients get to know their team—oncologists, nurses, clinicians and other support staff—who are with them every step of the way. At GBMC, we face cancer together.
Due to a significant increase in flu, RSV, and COVID-19 cases, our Emergency Department (ED) and inpatient units are at maximum capacity. We are working diligently to care for all patients, but we ask for your patience and cooperation during this time. For non-life-threatening concerns, please consider urgent care or primary care options to help alleviate ED congestion. If you have a GBMC Health Partners primary care provider, you can access same-day acute care at Padonia Plus via MyChart. Visiting the ED for emergency care is appropriate for life-threatening conditions, including but not limited to:Chest pain or difficulty breathingSevere injury or traumaStroke symptoms (sudden numbness, confusion, vision changes)Uncontrolled bleedingHigh fever with seizures or difficulty breathingPlease take a moment to review these “Know Before You Go” guidelines that outline when to visit the emergency department, urgent care, or your primary care provider or pediatrician. What to Expect if You Come to the ED Expect longer wait times as we prioritize patients based on medical urgency.Please bring a mask to protect yourself and others from possible infection.Seating in the ED waiting room is limited. Patients may have one adult support person to accompany them in the waiting area. When that capacity is reached, visitors may be asked to temporarily relocate for safety reasons. Our alternate waiting area is the nearby ED Corridor.We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we continue to provide the highest level of care to our community. Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe.
At GBMC Health Partners, we are committed to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care. As part of our continued effort to provide accessible healthcare, we are excited to offer diabetic eye exams at two of our primary care practices—GBMC Health Partners Primary Care in Jonestown and Owings Mills.Diabetes can have a significant impact on eye health. One of the most concerning complications is diabetic retinopathy, a condition that can lead to blindness if left undiagnosed and untreated. The early stages of diabetic retinopathy are often symptom-free, which means without regular eye exams, it can go unnoticed until the damage is severe.Our new service provides an innovative solution to ensure patients with diabetes receive necessary eye screenings. Using advanced technology, these two primary care practices now offer diabetic eye exams with a RetinaVue camera. This camera captures high-quality images of the retina, allowing ophthalmologists in the GBMC Eye Center to detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and other eye conditions—without the need for dilation.Traditionally, diabetic eye exams required dilation of the pupils, which can be uncomfortable and require extra time. For many patients, getting to the GBMC Eye Center, which is on GBMC’s main campus, for a dilated exam can be a challenge, especially those in the Jonestown and Owings Mills areas. The RetinaVue camera eliminates the need for dilation, making the process more convenient and comfortable.While a dilated exam offers a more thorough assessment, the RetinaVue camera provides an excellent preliminary screening, allowing providers to detect potential issues and refer patients for further evaluation if necessary.The impact of these eye exams extends beyond just diabetic retinopathy. By using the RetinaVue camera, our ophthalmologists have been able to uncover a variety of health concerns. One notable case involved a patient who came in for a routine screening with no symptoms, only for the exam to reveal swelling in the optic nerve. This could have been an indication of central nervous system issues, prompting further testing in the emergency room. In other cases, we've identified early signs of glaucoma and even undiagnosed diabetes.If you're a diabetic patient or have concerns about your eye health, you can take advantage of this valuable service at our Jonestown and Owings Mills locations. If you're a patient at one of these practices, simply ask about diabetic eye screenings with the RetinaVue camera during your next visit. For a comprehensive eye exam, we encourage you to visit the GBMC Eye Center, where our expert ophthalmologists can provide a thorough evaluation.By prioritizing these screenings, we can help you manage your diabetes more effectively and catch potential eye issues early, leading to better health outcomes and a brighter future. Contact us today to schedule your diabetic eye exam and take the next step in protecting your vision.
Since Malcolm Berman entrusted GBMC with his care more than 20 years ago, the entire Berman family has been dedicated to improving the lives of cancer patients. At a pair of events celebrating and dedicating the new home of cancer care at GBMC, the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion, speakers expressed gratitude to the many people who have helped bring the building to fruition, highlighting the Bermans not only as lead donors to this project, but for their years of advocacy and philanthropy in the region. Selections from their messages of gratitude follow. “Today’s celebration would not be possible without the transformational generosity of Sandra and Malcolm Berman. Sandy had the vision to bring everything under one roof, making it easier for patients and families navigating a cancer diagnosis. Sandy, thank you for your relentless advocacy and your generous spirit, which has inspired so many to join in making this pavilion a reality.” - GBMC President and CEO John Chessare, MD, MPH“Sandra and Malcolm Berman believed in the power of community and the strength we can find in one another. It is in their resolve that we have built this center—a place where we will come together to fight against cancer, to support one another, and to ensure that no one faces it alone. This center is a testament to the countless hours of intellect, the tireless dedication of healthcare professionals, and the unwavering support of our community. It is a place where innovation meets empathy, where patients will receive not only advanced treatments but also the care and understanding they truly deserve.“ - GBMC Philanthropy Chair Heidi Kenny-Berman, Esq.“Thank you for supporting this beautiful new home for patient-centered cancer care, the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion. Sandy and Malcolm, thank you for all you have done, in your own philanthropy and for the giving you have inspired in others to make this day a reality. I need to emphasize that it has been our honor and privilege to assist in the care of the patients who have been affected by cancer who chose to have their care at GBMC. You have invested in the vision of a single destination for patients of Maryland’s largest comprehensive community cancer care program. Thank you for your generosity.” - Herman & Walter Samuelson Medical Director of the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute Paul Celano, MD, FACP, FASCO“This legacy of philanthropy has been passed on to myself and to my family in the ways that we all give back to the things that are really important to us. And that just comes from the top down, shaping our worldviews and the ways in which that we can give back. I’m just so grateful to be a part of the Berman family, to be the eldest grandson of my grandparents. They mean the world to me.” - President of Mandalay Pictures and grandson of Sandra and Malcolm Berman, Jason Michael Berman“This building has been in my heart and on my mind for many years. It’s something I dreamed of – a place that could make a real difference for families dealing with cancer. But the time had to be right, and that time is now here at GBMC. Many people have asked Malcolm and me why we give. The Hebrew word, Sedaka, is the Jewish obligation to give back. To strengthen the community by giving, we help balance the scales, creating a stronger, more compassionate world for everyone. ... Today, Malcolm and I are grateful to be able to live by this obligation and are fortunate to make an impact on the places that matter to us.” - Sandra Berman“And I’m just so deeply humbled that we have a family that understood what it meant to take the lead on this and are coming from not just beautiful hearts, but also a beautiful obligation to continue to give and serve. ... And Sandra, the idea that this comes from an understanding and from a history of the impact that this beautiful place made on Malcolm’s life and a place of understanding that we were going to do anything and everything to make sure we’re supporting him the same way that this hospital does for every single person that walks into this hospital, that everybody here is family. And so, Sandra, I’m so thankful to be here with you. You have many, many titles of philanthropist and change-maker and mother and grandmother. And the philanthropy we know is not just about health. It is higher education, it is holocaust education and making sure that Maryland is going to be a state where hate will find no oxygen. Of the many, many titles that you have earned, I’m deeply, deeply proud of one that you have, and that’s Marylander and someone who really does represent the best of us.” - Governor Wes Moore
After 15 years of transformative leadership, John B. Chessare, MD, MPH, will retire as President and CEO of GBMC HealthCare on June 30, 2025. His tenure has been marked by a dedication to patient-centered care and healthcare innovation, reshaping GBMC’s approach to medicine. Dr. Chessare recognized early in his tenure that with the aging of the population there would be a need for increased capacity for cancer care. He has overseen the continual expansion of GBMC’s cancer services to meet the evolving needs of the community—a legacy that will resonate for years.An advocate for health equity and access to care, Dr. Chessare has ushered in a new era for oncology services at GBMC with the completion of the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion, set to open for patients in early 2025. This state-of-the-art facility, made possible through gifts from Sandra and Malcolm Berman and the generosity of hundreds of donors, will centralize GBMC’s comprehensive cancer services, providing seamless access to oncology pharmacy services, integrative medicine, and symptom management. It is a bold and compassionate response to the challenges of an aging population in need of accessible cancer care.While many community hospitals have chosen to scale back cancer services due to the cost of delivering those services, Dr. Chessare has championed an opposing approach. He believes expanding access to advanced, patient-centered oncology care is not only necessary but also the right thing to do.The Sandra R. Berman Pavilion was part of a broader strategy under Dr. Chessare’s leadership to modernize and expand GBMC’s facilities. This included the construction of the Louis and Phyllis Friedman Building, which enhances inpatient care with modern amenities and efficient services. Together, these facilities are transforming the GBMC campus into a hub of healthcare excellence.Dr. Chessare’s commitment to expanding cancer services reflects his belief in prevention, early intervention, and comprehensive chronic condition management. His leadership has shifted GBMC’s focus from episodic care to advanced primary care, ensuring patients receive proactive rather than reactive treatment. This philosophy was instrumental in GBMC earning the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in 2020.Beyond infrastructure and care models, Dr. Chessare’s legacy is defined by his approach to healthcare, which has always centered on a simple yet profound question: “What if it was your loved one?” This guiding principle has led to innovations that not only improve outcomes but also ensure patients feel supported and respected throughout their journey.As GBMC prepares for the next chapter, the foundation built under Dr. Chessare’s leadership provides a strong platform for continued growth and innovation. His impact on GBMC HealthCare and the Greater Baltimore community will endure long after his retirement, as the organization remains guided by the vision he helped define: To every patient, every time, we will provide the care we would want for our own loved ones.
Greater Beauty, GBMC’s new medspa, is led by vascular, vein, and wound care expert, Dr. Jennifer Heller, and offers high-quality cosmetic treatments right on the main hospital campus.With a commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology and employing experienced professionals, Greater Beauty ensures patients receive the best possible care and the highest possible quality. Experts thoroughly evaluate your unique situation, set up a customized treatment plan, and provide the best possible outcome for you.Services include injectables, hydra facials, tattoo removal, and laser hair removal.Learn more at greaterbeautymedspa.com.
.figure { margin:0; } .image-left { padding: 1em; max-width: 400px; float: left; } On November 19, 2024, GBMC HealthCare held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion, a new home for the region’s leader in comprehensive community cancer care. GBMC expects to start treating patients in this building in early February 2025. Gov. Wes Moore with John B. Chessare, MD, MPHThe Berman Pavilion combines all GBMC cancer care services into a single destination that provides a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment. Its 73,000 sq. ft. of sunlit, comfortable space is designed to meet patients’ needs for clinical excellence, comfort, and convenience. Maryland Governor Wes Moore attended the event, expressed his sentiments about the significance of this project, and shared a personal experience with cancer in his own family. “The fearlessness behind this idea is saying, let's make sure we have an institution that meets people where they are. Let's make it easier for them to navigate a very complicated time in their life and let them know we are going to see them and support them in any way we can,” Governor Moore said. “Thank you for connecting families to hope, and for helping make such a difficult journey just a little bit easier.” The new building features:Gov. Wes Moore with GBMC Oncology physician leadersA dedicated oncology pharmacy, diagnostic imaging center, and lab, all on siteAn Integrative Wellness Center for evidence-based symptom managementA revamped Boutique and Salon featuring products chosen to boost cancer patients’ spirits and meet their unique needs at an affordable price pointA revitalized Infusion Center with 10 private rooms, two isolation rooms, and gorgeous viewsThe Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute at GBMC treats more than 12,000 patients a year. With the aging of the population as well as a national increase in cancer diagnoses in younger populations, the need for quality, compassionate, and expert cancer care services that cater to the needs of patients is paramount. GBMC HealthCare's President and CEO, John B. Chessare, MD, MPH, recognized the importance of this need and endorsed the project to ease the burden for people dealing with cancer and dramatically improve the patient experience. Sandra Berman speaks at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony“Our vision at GBMC is to care for patients as if they were our own loved ones,” Dr. Chessare said. “Creating this space for patients to more easily navigate what can be a complex, challenging, and emotional experience was the right thing to do. I commend the teams who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to life, on time and under budget, with the best interest of our patients in mind.” Substantial philanthropic backing was instrumental in bringing this project to fruition, but it was the foresight and a transformational lead gift from Sandra and Malcolm Berman that brought this project forward. “This has been on our minds and in our hearts for some time,” Sandra Berman, who has served on the GBMC Board of Directors for more than a decade, said. “Members of our family, close friends, and many people we care about have been successfully treated at GBMC. Now, we want to make a difference for people throughout the community who are on this difficult journey. I hope this makes it as easy as possible for people to get better.”Learn more about the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion and how you can make a difference.*Photos courtesy of Pat Siebert, Maryland GovPics*
Gilchrist's We Honor Veterans Program supports veterans in the community at the end of life. Veterans have unique needs around mental health, trauma, and grief, which is why Gilchrist puts on various activities and events throughout the year, but particularly during November, to honor veterans. These events and initiatives honor veterans and have a profound impact on both the veterans and their families.
At GBMC, we take pride in the people who make our organization run smoothly. Charles Williams, a dedicated supply and equipment technician, is one of those special individuals. With more than 15 years of service, Charles has become a key member of the GBMC family, but his story reaches far beyond the walls of our hospital. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Charles grew up in the foster care system. Life presented many challenges, but through it all, Charles found solace and motivation in sports. He played basketball at Georgia State University, but his time on the court was cut short when he flunked out of school. “It was a tough lesson, but I learned that failure doesn’t define you. It’s about how you come back,” Charles reflects.His comeback story began in 2008 when he took a temporary job at GBMC, working for Mary Lou Smith, Manager of Surgical Materials and Billing. “I was just trying to make ends meet,” he recalls. Mary Lou saw something in him and, after two months, offered him a permanent role. “She changed my life,” he says. “GBMC has been my home ever since.”While Charles found stability in his work at GBMC, he also discovered a new passion outside of the hospital: umpiring Little League baseball. In 2012, a newspaper article about Little League caught his attention. Intrigued, he signed up for classes and soon found himself behind the plate, calling balls and strikes. What started as a hobby quickly became a way to give back to the community, providing mentorship and guidance to young athletes.His dedication to the sport recently took him to Cooperstown, the heart of baseball history. For one week, Charles had the incredible opportunity to umpire games and lead skills drills at the home of the Baseball Hall of Fame. “It was like stepping into a dream,” he says. “Every day, I umpired two to three games and worked with kids during the drills. The energy was contagious. It reminded me of how sports can bring people together, just like teamwork here at GBMC.”Charles' journey from foster care, through personal setbacks, to becoming a respected member of both the GBMC and Little League communities is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of second chances. “I’ve had some bumps in the road, but I’m proud of where I am today,” he shares. And we, at GBMC, are proud to call Charles Williams one of our own.Charles continues to inspire on and off the field, showing us all that with perseverance and heart, we can truly make a difference—no matter where life starts us or how many times we fall along the way.
Are you ready to take control of your health? GBMC's Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP) is here to help you reclaim your life through the transformative power of bariatric surgery and other personalized weight loss solutions. Why Choose Bariatric Surgery? If your body mass index (BMI) is over 35, traditional diet and exercise alone may not be enough to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Our minimally invasive bariatric surgery options—Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Revisional Surgery—are effective tools to help you reach your weight loss goals. Surgical Options: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: This procedure creates a small stomach pouch and bypasses part of the small intestine, reducing food intake and nutrient absorption for substantial weight loss. Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy: Most of the stomach is removed, leaving a sleeve-shaped stomach that reduces hunger and promotes significant weight loss with fewer risks of vitamin deficiencies. Comprehensive Support Beyond Surgery Our commitment to your success doesn’t end with surgery. The COMP Nutrition Program provides ongoing support with: Individual counseling (pre- and post-surgery) Pre-op group education sessions Monthly support groups (both in-person and virtual) Online nutrition resources Personalized, non-judgmental counseling to help you build lasting, healthy habits Explore Non-Surgical Weight Loss In addition to surgical options, we offer medical weight loss solutions including the latest injectable medications. Our program is designed to tailor a weight loss plan specific to your needs, combining medication management, nutritional counseling, and behavioral therapy. Eligibility and Coverage Our Medical Weight Loss Program is available for those who have a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI between 27 and 29.9 with obesity-related conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for medication and services. Meet Our Experts Our dedicated team includes: Bariatric Surgeons: Shauna Costinett, MD, FACS; Timothee Friesen, MD, FACS; Emily Watters, MD, MPH Advanced Practitioners: Summer Esslinger, MSN, CRNP, CBN; Melissa Bearekman, PA-C, CHC Registered Dietitians: Jana Wolff, RD, LDN, CSOWM; Madison Friel, MSPH, RDN, LDN Contact Us Today Take the first step toward a healthier future. Call us at 443-849-3779 or visit gbmc.org/weightloss to schedule your consultation.
Baltimore, MD (September 9, 2024) – Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) today announces a groundbreaking partnership with Laronix, creators of AVA Voice, a pioneering non-invasive voice solution designed specifically for laryngectomy patients. This collaboration makes GBMC the first certified healthcare institution globally to offer this innovative technology, underscoring our commitment to enhancing patient care and improving quality of life for those affected by voice loss.AVA Voice represents a significant advancement in assistive medical technology, providing a seamless and integrated solution for individuals who have lost their voice due to medical conditions. By utilizing state-of-the-art artificial voice generation, AVA Voice enables patients who have undergone laryngectomy to communicate naturally without the need for invasive procedures.The Milton J. Dance Head and Neck Center, located within GBMC, is renowned for its comprehensive approach to rehabilitation and patient care, specializing in therapies that span physical, emotional, and psychological healing. The introduction of AVA Voice is a testament to our dedication to embracing innovative solutions that address complex health challenges for patients and expanding the options available for those with complex illness.Ana Minisci, MS, CCC-SLP, senior speech-language pathologist at GBMC, has already seen the transformation in many of her patients."Adding AVA Voice to our arsenal of patient-centered tools and therapies is a gamechanger,” she said. “It has been so rewarding to see that moment when a patient can hear themselves. We forget how vital ‘hmms,’ ‘uhhs,’ and even laughter are to everyday conversation. AVA Voice provides this where other solutions don’t and restores a sense of normalcy for patients. They can now reclaim their voice and, with it, a vital part of their identity."Each year, thousands of individuals undergo laryngectomy, often resulting in a permanent loss of voice and years of isolation. AVA Voice now offers these individuals a better quality of life and an opportunity to regain their independence."Being able to introduce AVA Voice to patients through our partnership with GBMC is a step forward in our mission to bring our voice restoration technology to those who need it most," Dr. Mousa Ahmadi, Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer of Laronix, said. "This device not only empowers patients to communicate but also significantly enhances their social interactions and emotional wellbeing."The Dance Center serves a vital role in the recovery of individuals undergoing major surgeries and treatments. By enabling voice restoration, the Center is setting new standards in rehabilitative care, providing patients not only with medical support but also with essential tools for personal empowerment and social reintegration.###About GBMC HealthCare Since its founding in 1965, GBMC has been known as an outstanding, independent community hospital, validating the vision of our founders to combine the best of community and university-level medicine. Our 257 licensed bed, acute and sub-acute care hospital in Towson handles more than 23,000 admissions and more than 52,000 emergency room visits annually. With GBMC Health Partners, we have established 12 advanced primary practices throughout the region, working to keep people well by coordinating preventive care and the management of chronic disease. We are also committed, in every specialty, to provide culturally competent care and service of the highest quality to every patient, every time with the goal of health equity for all.About Laronix Laronix is a global pioneer dedicated to developing non-invasive voice solutions for patients experiencing voice loss. Our journey began in response to patients’ calls for more voice restoration options, leading to the creation of our breakthrough voice solutions. Driven by a passion for facilitating easier communication and reducing patient isolation, our team is committed to enhancing the quality of life for those we serve. Through cutting-edge technology, compassionate support, and personalized care, we empower patients to be heard and engage meaningfully with the world around them.
This summer, three long-serving and influential GBMC HealthCare physicians celebrated their retirements: Dr. H. Alexander Munitz, Dr. Robert Palermo, and Dr. Frank Rotolo. Their decades of service and pioneering contributions have profoundly shaped our health system, earning each of them recognition as GBMC HealthCare Physician Titans of Care during our 50th anniversary celebrations in 2015.H. Alexander Munitz, MD Dr. H. Alexander Munitz retired June 2024 after 38 years at GBMC. As chair of the Department of Radiology from 1992 to 2020, Dr. Munitz's visionary leadership advanced our radiology services into the 21st century. Under his guidance, GBMC became a trailblazer in adopting spiral CT technology and performing advanced radiologic studies, such as virtual colonoscopy and CT coronary arteriography. His efforts also attracted top interventional radiologists, establishing one of the region’s premier interventional radiology departments. Among Dr. Munitz's notable achievements is the creation of the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Comprehensive Breast Care Center, a groundbreaking collaboration between surgery and radiology. This center was the first of its kind in a community hospital in the Baltimore metropolitan area and became a national leader in percutaneous breast biopsy. Dr. Munitz’s dedication to advancing biopsy needle technology further highlights his innovative spirit.Robert Palermo, MDDr. Robert Palermo, Chair of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, has been a cornerstone of GBMC HealthCare for 42 years, joining the organization in 1982. Since 1990, he has led the Department of Pathology as Chair and served as Laboratory Director. Under his leadership, GBMC's pathology services have achieved remarkable advancements in areas such as chemistry, surgical pathology, laboratory informatics, and immunology. The laboratory's reputation for high reliability and strict adherence to regulatory standards is a testament to Dr. Palermo's dedication and expertise.Throughout his tenure, Dr. Palermo has played a vital role on numerous committees, including the GBMC Cancer Committee, Precision Medicine Task Force, Antimicrobial Stewardship Committee, and Breast Program Leadership Committee. His involvement in the GBMC HealthCare Epic Advisory Council and Infection Prevention Committee has driven significant improvements in our systems and processes, further enhancing patient care and safety.As Dr. Palermo retires, we are pleased to announce Dr. Lindsay B. Goicochea has been named Chair of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. Dr. Goicochea, who joined GBMC in 2015, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. She received her medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completed her residency in anatomical and clinical pathology at the University of Maryland Medical Center. Additionally, Dr. Goicochea completed fellowships in cytopathology at the University of Maryland Medical Center and surgical pathology at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. Her appointment ensures the continued excellence of our pathology and laboratory services as we move forward.Frank Rotolo, MD Dr. Frank Rotolo, division head of general surgery and an iconic surgeon for the Baltimore community, is retiring after 34 years at GBMC. Starting his journey with us in 1989, Dr. Rotolo has been instrumental in advancing general surgery, including the introduction of laparoscopic and robotic surgery and the implementation of sentinel lymph node biopsies for breast cancer and melanoma detection. Dr. Rotolo has played a crucial role in elevating GBMC's surgical and cancer quality programs. He was instrumental in GBMC’s membership in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program and served as the cancer liaison physician for the Commission on Cancer and the Maryland state chair for cancer liaison physicians. Farewell to Another Cherished EmployeePatty Leaverton retired in June after 11 years of dedicated service as manager of The Corner Shop, GBMC’s well-known gift shop whose proceeds benefit patient care.Patty's journey with GBMC began in 2009 when her son, Ethan, received successful cancer treatment at the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute. Wanting to give back, Patty started volunteering in the Infusion Center in 2012. Her retail experience and talent soon became evident, and she became the Corner Shop manager a year later. (Read more about Patty.)Since then, Patty has significantly expanded The Corner Shop's offerings and increased sales. She also formed lasting and impactful connections with both patients and employees and has become known for her kindness and dedication to going above and beyond for all her customers.GBMC HealthCare wishes Patty, as well as Drs. Munitz, Palermo, and Rotolo, all the best in their well-deserved retirements! Join us in thanking them for their significant contributions to our healthcare system.
Dr. William F. “Bill” Fritz, a retired internist known to GBMC patients for his kindness, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2024 at the age of 98. A World War II veteran, born in Merrill, Wisconsin, and raised in Oshkosh, he pursued a medical career after serving in the Navy during WWII. He graduated from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in 1949 and completed his internship and residency at Massachusetts General Hospital.In 1955, Dr. Fritz began his private practice in Baltimore, where he became renowned for his compassionate patient care. He treated patients at GBMC (and many other area hospitals) and formerly served on our Board of Trustees and Foundation Board. Colleagues and patients alike admired his empathy and dedication. He was a fellow of the American College of Physicians and a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine.Long-time friend and physician Jim Porterfield, a GBMC cardiologist, said, “Bill was an outstanding role model to me and many other doctors in our community who combine the science of medicine with the compassion that is so vitally important in optimal patient care. He was also a remarkable man. I will miss him.”Dr. Fritz had a wealth of knowledge about GBMC dating back to the very beginning when community doctors were getting comfortable with the new hospital. He was a natural storyteller, vividly recounting memories from 60 years ago. He was personal friends with and treating physician to GBMC founders, including Ginny Sherwood and Jeanne Baetjer. He recalled with a smile that Mrs. Baetjer “strongly encouraged” him to admit his patients to GBMC.GBMC President and CEO, Dr. John B. Chessare appreciated Dr. Fritz’s personal support and strong philanthropy.“He kindly encouraged me during the pandemic particularly and praised GBMC’s commitment to keeping our community informed," Dr. Chessare said. "His support of GBMC never wavered. He is among a handful of donors who provided philanthropic support consecutively dating back to GBMC’s opening.”“GBMC owes a debt of gratitude to our earliest supporters. Dr. Fritz’s endorsement of GBMC beginning in 1965 was a strong statement to the community,” Dr. Robin Motter-Mast, Chief of Staff, added. “His service to his patients and their families remains a model for GBMC physicians who strive toward our vision to treat every patient every time like family.”Beyond medicine, Dr. Fritz enjoyed crossword puzzles, oil painting, and writing, authoring a mystery novel at 84. He remained socially active, maintaining connections despite health challenges. His wife of 59 years, Susan Baker Fritz, predeceased him in 2009. Dr. Fritz is survived by his three children, eight grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. A memorial service was held at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer.
