John B. Chessare, MD, MPH, President and CEO of GBMC HealthCare, was recently inducted into the 2024 M&T Bank and Baltimore Sun’s Business and Civic Hall of Fame. This Hall of Fame recognition honors the achievements of 11 outstanding business and civic leaders who have spent their careers investing in the transformation and growth of Maryland. He received the award during a special event at The Center Club on June 6, 2024.Dr. Chessare is passionate about healthcare transformation. Since beginning his tenure at GBMC in 2010, he has focused on advanced primary care, emphasizing preventive medicine and chronic disease management. This approach has earned him national recognition for improving patient care quality and efficiency. He advocates for a healthcare system that prioritizes long-term health outcomes over episodic treatments, aiming to keep patients out of hospitals through early detection and management of chronic conditions.His educational background includes a medical degree from the University of Rome, a pediatric residency at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, fellowship training at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, and a Master of Public Health in medical care organization from the University of Michigan School of Public Health. His career highlights include executive roles at Caritas Christi Health Care System, Boston Medical Center, Albany Medical Center, and the Medical College of Ohio.In response to Dr. Chessare receiving the 2024 Hall of Fame honor, Baltimore Sun columnist Angela Roberts published a piece celebrating his impactful career and visionary leadership. The piece included reflections—summarized below—from several influential healthcare leaders who have worked with Dr. Chessare.Donald Berwick, MD, President Emeritus for the Institute for Healthcare Improvement and former Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, praised Dr. Chessare as an extraordinary healthcare executive. Dr. Berwick, who mentored Dr. Chessare at Boston Children’s Hospital, noted his unique drive and compassion for patients. Dr. Berwick’s mentorship was pivotal in sparking Dr. Chessare’s passion for leadership and management in healthcare.Joshua Sharfstein, MD, Chair of the Health Services Cost Review Commission (HSCRC) and former Maryland Health Secretary, also commended Dr. Chessare’s dedication to patient care. Reflecting on their time together in Boston, Dr. Sharfstein highlighted Dr. Chessare’s fundamental concern for patients and his insistence on asking, “Is it right for the patient?” This patient-centric approach has been a cornerstone of Dr. Chessare’s leadership philosophy.According to Roberts' article, one of Dr. Chessare’s proudest achievements at GBMC is his advocacy for Gilchrist, Maryland's largest elder care network. His leadership has also reformed the hospital’s primary care practices, focusing on early detection and chronic disease management. These efforts culminated in GBMC receiving the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in 2020, the highest presidential honor for quality management. Anthony Fauci, MD, former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, recognized this accomplishment as a bright spot in a challenging year, commending GBMC’s sustained commitment to excellence in patient care.
At GBMC HealthCare, we are dedicated to providing every patient with the same high standard of care we would want for our own loved ones. This commitment ensures all individuals—regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic—receive a safe, healing, and culturally competent healthcare experience.Our focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion is central to this mission. We strive to foster an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives drive innovation and growth. This commitment is reflected in our active participation in community events, such as the recent Baltimore Pride and the Juneteenth celebration for employees. As our community evolves, so do our practices and leadership, ensuring we reflect and meet the needs of those we serve. With a strong, diverse workforce, we are committed to advancing health equity and making public health a right for everyone in our community.
People joke about “retail therapy,” but the team at the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute’s Boutique understand the boost that can come from a little shopping. When it opens in the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion, the newly renamed Marion G. Thompson Boutique, will feature products chosen to boost cancer patients’ spirits, as well as merchandise designed to support patients at any stage of their treatment.Understanding the unique needs of cancer patients, the staff has carefully selected products that will appeal to cancer patients and those caring for them. Shoppers can find simple items like blankets or sudoku books to make hours spent in Infusion pass more quickly and comfortably. When a patient has had radiation therapy, they can stop by the boutique on the way out and pick up creams that will ease skin burns.“The goal is to provide a service to our patients in a setting that is comforting, supportive and affordable,” GBMC Volunteer Services Director, Carmen Baeza, who oversees the Boutique, said. “They can trust that we will have what they need.“Whatever it is: If a patient has had a mastectomy, we have mastectomy pillows and post-surgical bras to help them as they heal.”In addition, the Boutique will also stocks products for men and women to support them as they are treated for cancer, including medical adaptive clothing such as port and chemo line shirts. Beyond items that meet therapeutic needs, there are plenty of more fanciful items to choose from.“We’ll continue to carry clothing and accessories to help patients feel comfortable in their own skin,” Carmen added. “Items to help women feel confident and pretty while maintaining their dignity.” Gifts for caregivers and loved ones will also be available for shoppers to create custom gift bags.Patients who have enjoyed the Salon will be happy to see Lisa Palmer has been promoted to Boutique Manager.“Lisa was our cosmetologist for seven years before she took over the management manager role,” Carmen said. “She is just fabulous with our patients. They’ll have that same cared-for feeling with our new cosmetologist, Karen White.”Karen joined the team in August and will be offering hair services in the salon. With an extensive background in salon services, Karen also understands the hair care needs of cancer patients through her volunteer work at Hope Lodge.“Karen is a wonderful addition to the team, and we are thrilled that she is part of the GBMC family,” Carmen said. Like GBMC’s Corner Shop and Nearly New, Too, the Boutique will also be staffed by GBMC volunteers, many of whom have personal experience with cancer.“Between our incredible staff and volunteers, I feel like we have a great team that really knows how to connect and understands what these women and men are going through,” Carmen said.When it comes to products and ideas for the Boutique, the team is consulting with experts. Carmen and Lisa attended a recent meeting of the Berman Cancer Institute’s Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) to deliver an update on plans for the new Boutique and to solicit recommendations. PFAC members were ready with information on products they’d like to see in the new Boutique. Examples included creams they found helpful during radiation therapy, as well as considerations for garments for patients to wear during chemotherapy. Many of the suggestions have already been introduced in the current Boutique and all will be featured in the new location.The Sandra R. Berman Pavilion was designed to deliver patient-centered care. When it opens early in 2025, patients and families will find everything they need, even if what they need is a smile and a place to shop.
Open 24/7/365, the Sexual Assault Forensic Examination, Domestic Violence and Child Protection Program (SAFE, DV, and CPP) program at GBMC offers comprehensive medical forensic services and advocacy for victims of assault, domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. The environment is designed to be safe and welcoming, ensuring privacy and comfort for patients during their traumatic experiences. The team works closely with local law enforcement and community groups to support victims from initial medical treatment through to potential court proceedings. The program's services are entirely free, thanks to grants and community philanthropy. At GBMC, education is the key to prevention. In addition to forensic treatment, the team also provides thousands of hours of education in the community on trauma-informed care and sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse prevention.
BALTIMORE (July 30, 2024) – Today, GBMC HealthCare’s Sexual Assault Forensic Examination, Domestic Violence and Child Protection Program (GBMC SAFE, DV and CPP) was chosen by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as one of 18 winners of their Innovation Challenge to prevent human trafficking among women and girls. GBMC was awarded $50,000 to grow its Anti-Human Trafficking Initiative. This initiative is dedicated to identifying, responding to, and preventing human sex trafficking in the community. GBMC’s SAFE, DV, and CPP team provide trauma-informed, comprehensive medical forensic care and advocacy support to survivors, collaborate with local and national partners to raise awareness, recognize and respond to the signs of trafficking, eliminate access barriers to treatment, and empower survivors. With this federal funding, the program can grow to begin offering education to neighboring hospitals and healthcare facilities, providing in-house mental health therapy to patients, increasing the availability of emergency shelters, and offering advanced training to GBMC staff and law enforcement partners. “Human trafficking is a widely misunderstood crime that can affect anyone, and increasing public awareness and improving access to victim services is paramount,” Ashley McAree, MSN, RN, FNE-A/P, SANE-A, Forensic Nurse and Human Trafficking Liaison for GBMC’s SAFE, DV and CPP program, said. “Our team is committed to treating survivors with compassion and dignity and ensuring they have access to no-cost specialized care and support within a comprehensive, victim-centered response program. We are grateful to HHS for recognizing the necessity and value of our program.” According to the White House’s National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking, women and girls are disproportionately impacted by human trafficking, which in turn undermines their safety, health, and wellbeing. Data from the National Human Trafficking Hotline shows women and girls comprised approximately 84% of individuals in trafficking situations, and 50% of individuals in labor trafficking situations reported to the Hotline in 2021. Women and girls who are sexually abused are more likely to suffer physical abuse, sexual re-victimization, and/or intimate partner violence later in life. Because 1 in 3 women experience intimate partner and/or domestic violence at some point in their lives, they are at a high risk of human trafficking and other forms of abuse. This innovation challenge was developed to identify, and award existing programs that demonstrate the effectiveness in preventing human trafficking and/or improving health outcomes related to human trafficking among women and girls. “Concentrating on human trafficking among women and girls requires a multifaceted approach that combines prevention, education, and support,” said Dorothy Fink, M.D., Deputy Assistant Secretary for Women’s Health and Director of the Office on Women’s Health. “We commend the challenge winners for their dedication and demonstrated success in addressing this critical need.” The GBMC SAFE, DV, and CPP program cares for victims of all ages at no cost to the patient. The team consists of skilled nurses and advocates who provide medical and forensic exams to victims of sexual assault, child abuse, domestic violence, and human trafficking in a confidential, non-judgmental setting and are available 24/7/365. The team also works closely with local law enforcement, the Child Advocacy Center, and other community organizations to ensure patients receive the wraparound services they need during a vulnerable time in their lives. After a visit from the Maryland Governor’s office last year, Lt. Governor Aruna Miller said, "Anyone that's going through this horrific trauma in their life should be able to come to a place like this, where they're received with comfort and warmth and understanding and patience, and I think that's the first step toward healing.” The challenge has two phases. Phase 2, which opens August 2025, will offer eight awards up to $100,000 that will go to Phase 1 programs that have successfully expanded and/or replicated to increase the impact of their program in preventing human trafficking and/or improving health outcomes related to human trafficking on women and girls. For more information about GBMC SAFE, DV, and CPP program, visit www.gbmc.org/safe or visit www.gbmc.org/HT to learn more about GBMC’s human trafficking initiative. For more information about human trafficking among women and girls, visit womenshealth.gov. ###
Gilchrist provides a broad range of medical services, wherever patients call home. Catering to older adults whether vigorous or nearing end-of-life, our skilled team collaborates closely with social workers, nurses, and support staff to offer specialized care for Maryland's growing elderly population. We can manage complex conditions and pain symptoms. We are experts in hospice care, but we are so much more. Gilchrist partners with facilities across Central Maryland, ensuring care is accessible at home, in clinics, and beyond. This is Gilchrist's commitment—to meet individuals where they are, embracing the diverse places people call home.
<div> <p paraid="1315406780" paraeid="{c3684696-4450-423b-8248-b9c2683cdb1f}{162}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Long before she found oncology and thoracic surgery, Jennifer L. Sullivan, MD, FACS, knew she wanted to be a doctor. She did not grow up around doctors, but she made her choice well before career paths were a serious consideration. She might have been five. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="140498384" paraeid="{c3684696-4450-423b-8248-b9c2683cdb1f}{200}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">As she made her way through medical school, Dr. Sullivan’s surgery rotation was transformative. </span> </p> <p paraid="140498384" paraeid="{c3684696-4450-423b-8248-b9c2683cdb1f}{200}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“I liked it,” she recalled. “We were so busy. And surgeons see the result of their work right away.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1146273002" paraeid="{c3684696-4450-423b-8248-b9c2683cdb1f}{216}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">In a pre-computer era, the enormous amount of information she would need at her fingertips as a cardio-thoracic surgeon seemed daunting. About halfway through the six-year surgical residency, however, her mentor “believed in me when I wasn’t sure.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="2071787726" paraeid="{c3684696-4450-423b-8248-b9c2683cdb1f}{253}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Dr. Sullivan’s mentor was an ex-smoker. When he developed lung cancer, "we all took care of his patients during his chemo.” He died years ago, but his words stay with her.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1833469713" paraeid="{11137cb6-2d4b-4e0f-94f4-176215a4d19a}{18}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">At GBMC, she finds a similar camaraderie to that she felt when she and her colleagues rallied to support him. </span> </p> <p paraid="1833469713" paraeid="{11137cb6-2d4b-4e0f-94f4-176215a4d19a}{18}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“I can call Dr. [Mei] Tang and coordinate my patient’s treatment. We’re all a team.” </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="518972096" paraeid="{11137cb6-2d4b-4e0f-94f4-176215a4d19a}{46}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Dr. Sullivan is a perfectionist who is clear about her purpose. For her, “the rewards come down to patients.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1886821270" paraeid="{11137cb6-2d4b-4e0f-94f4-176215a4d19a}{64}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“When they feel like they can see the benefit,” she said, “then I really feel like I’ve earned their gratitude.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div>
<div> <p paraid="738692707" paraeid="{b059deaf-6a90-40ce-b069-574bec4c3894}{162}"> <em><strong><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Dr. Celano Takes Leadership Role in State Council</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span></strong></em> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1737337980" paraeid="{b059deaf-6a90-40ce-b069-574bec4c3894}{168}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Paul Celano, MD, FACP, FASCO, Herman & Walter Samuelson Medical Director of the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute, has been appointed Vice Chair of the Maryland State Council on Cancer Control. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="402573925" paraeid="{b059deaf-6a90-40ce-b069-574bec4c3894}{176}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">The Council </span><span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US">works with the Governor to develop state policy and programs to reduce the incidence of cancer in Maryland. Access to testing, screening, treatment, and programs for public education, prevention, and treatment of cancer are recommended by the Council. The Council also evaluates programs and promotes public-private partnerships to lower the incidence of cancer.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="117854907" paraeid="{b059deaf-6a90-40ce-b069-574bec4c3894}{184}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US">In addition, goals and priorities of the Cancer Surveillance System are set by the Council through its Cancer Surveillance Committee. The System collects data on incidence, diagnostic stage, mortality, and risk factors for cancer. Through the Maryland Cancer Registry Advisory Committee, the System also uses the Maryland Cancer Registry as a tool to plan, evaluate, and target cancer control programs.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335557856":16777215,"335559738":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1979414549" paraeid="{b059deaf-6a90-40ce-b069-574bec4c3894}{194}"> <em><strong><span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US">Oncology Support Services and Advanced Radiology Partner for Breast Cancer Outreach</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335557856":16777215,"335559738":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span></strong></em> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1302574122" paraeid="{b059deaf-6a90-40ce-b069-574bec4c3894}{200}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Staff members from Oncology Support Services and Advanced Radiology joined the GBMC marketing team and other colleagues from all around GBMC at the BMore Healthy Expo on February 10 at the Baltimore Convention Center.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="119259363" paraeid="{b059deaf-6a90-40ce-b069-574bec4c3894}{212}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Attendees were greeted by the friendly Advanced Radiology team and 52 patients signed up for a mammogram screening.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="14514911" paraeid="{b059deaf-6a90-40ce-b069-574bec4c3894}{228}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Additional opportunities to sign up for a mammogram screening will be held at the Cancer Survivor Celebration in June 2024.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="985403474" paraeid="{b059deaf-6a90-40ce-b069-574bec4c3894}{240}"> <em><strong><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Dr. Levinson Gives Presentation at National Conference</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span></strong></em> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1858785232" paraeid="{b059deaf-6a90-40ce-b069-574bec4c3894}{246}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Kimberly L. Levinson, MD, MPH, Director of the Johns Hopkins Gynecologic Oncology at GBMC, was a presenter at the Annual Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SCO). Dr. Levinson gave an oral plenary presentation entitled: Therapeutic Vaccination for the Elimination of HPV16+ High Grade Dysplasia: A Phase I Clinical Trial of the DNA Vaccine pNGBL4aCRTE6E7L2, administered via the TriGrid Electroporation Device.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="46648948" paraeid="{6c258654-01d8-435e-8d88-4da15ae32d08}{37}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Dr. Levinson also had two posters presented.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":0,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="288959240" paraeid="{6c258654-01d8-435e-8d88-4da15ae32d08}{51}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">The SCO contributes to the advancement of women’s cancer care by encouraging research, providing education, raising standards of practice, advocating for patients and members, and collaborating with other domestic and international organizations. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":0,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="87326426" paraeid="{6c258654-01d8-435e-8d88-4da15ae32d08}{69}"> <em><strong><span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US">Bringing Joy to GBMC in Her Free Time</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":0,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span></strong></em> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1703223143" paraeid="{6c258654-01d8-435e-8d88-4da15ae32d08}{79}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US">During the work week, Kathy Fletcher is the Executive Assistant to the leaders of the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute, Dr. Paul Celano and Walter Benton, Executive Director of Oncology Services. On her weekends, Kathy and her dog, Kyra, are back at GBMC, volunteering to deliver pet therapy. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":0,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="27526870" paraeid="{6c258654-01d8-435e-8d88-4da15ae32d08}{101}"> <span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US">Dog handlers (owners) and dogs go through an extensive training and certification process before they can begin making pet therapy visits. Kathy visits several inpatient units and invites staff to enjoy some dog cuddles. Many staff tell her, “That’s just what I needed today!” For her part, Kathy “just feels so lucky to be a part of this program that brings happiness to people right when they need to most.”</span> </p> </div>
<div> <p paraid="1806474172" paraeid="{4518a91e-4be1-4631-911c-7287080486b3}{174}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US"></span><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">When the new home for cancer care, the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion, opens next year, GBMC will have taken enormous strides in improving the experience of oncology patients. But there will be a few more steps to take before we have created the environment that meets our ideal for patient care. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="409331446" paraeid="{4518a91e-4be1-4631-911c-7287080486b3}{190}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Design work is well underway for a thorough renovation of the Sheila K. Riggs Radiation Oncology Center. </span> </p> <p paraid="409331446" paraeid="{4518a91e-4be1-4631-911c-7287080486b3}{190}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“The hospital is investing the necessary funds to make this a beautiful facility, especially in how it functions,” Geoffrey A. Neuner, MD, Chair of Radiology Oncology, said. “We’re listening to staff and patients, making the critically necessary design changes to provide patients a seamless experience.” </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="531021192" paraeid="{4518a91e-4be1-4631-911c-7287080486b3}{218}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Every aspect of the new design revolves around patient care. In the past, exam rooms have been geared toward clinical patient/doctor interactions in an exam room setting. The new rooms will be laid out to provide supportive care. Here, patients will receive education </span><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">and counseling, reviewing images and presentations, as they learn and make decisions about their diagnosis and treatment plan. Every aspect of the new center is being designed to support patients as they are treated and go through the process of recovery and survivorship. The new layout of the department will provide privacy and comfort for patients and ease of access for the staff caring for them. Restrooms and changing rooms will be close to the planning suite and treatment rooms, for example. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1666764137" paraeid="{5e4a5c4f-85f5-452b-983c-f9a5606db5cf}{49}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">The goal is to design a department that matches the expert care the team delivers each day. This transformation is needed, according to Dr. Neuner, “to keep pace with emerging technology. Over time, radiation treatment has become more precise and the indications for radiation have become more nuanced. We can attack cancers with less collateral damage than patients used to endure.” </span> </p> <p paraid="1666764137" paraeid="{5e4a5c4f-85f5-452b-983c-f9a5606db5cf}{49}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">The new linear accelerator, which will deliver radiation therapy, will be one of the most advanced on the market. The team, whose treatment planning skills have pushed older equipment to its limits, will soon have the technology to more easily deliver the exceptional treatment already in practice.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="864449880" paraeid="{5e4a5c4f-85f5-452b-983c-f9a5606db5cf}{134}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">While they perfect a design that will match the level of patient-centered care they deliver, the Radiation Oncology team, along with GBMC’s facilities team, is also paying close attention to aesthetics. They plan to surround patients with beauty incorporated into the elegant system of care. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1633547095" paraeid="{5e4a5c4f-85f5-452b-983c-f9a5606db5cf}{182}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">The opening of the Berman Garage has made getting to Radiation Oncology much easier for patients. However, it required literally turning the department around. The same team that has been working on designing the ideal care experience has also devised a plan so that throughout deconstruction and reconstruction, the Radiation Oncology center will remain open, and treatment will continue uninterrupted. Just as the reception team moved overnight from one end of the department to the other, changes will be made without disrupting treatment. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="551488453" paraeid="{5e4a5c4f-85f5-452b-983c-f9a5606db5cf}{242}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“We are not missing a beat,” Radiation Oncology Manager Shannon Reynolds said. “It will be challenging for staff, but we hope patients will be barely aware of what’s going on behind the scenes.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1665880404" paraeid="{5e4a5c4f-85f5-452b-983c-f9a5606db5cf}{248}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">When the work is complete, about two years from now, patients will surely feel the difference. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":160,"335559740":279}"> </span> </p> </div>
Nurses are the frontline guardians of health and healing. Beyond administering treatments and medications, nurses lend a compassionate ear and comforting presence to those in need. Their unique contribution lies in their ability to merge technical proficiency with profound empathy, fostering trust and connection with patients and their families. Out of hundreds of nominations, the following nurses were selected as 2024 Excellence in Nursing winners by Baltimore magazine and are featured in the May 2024 issue of the magazine. We celebrate the profound impact they have on shaping the landscape of healthcare, enriching lives, and exemplifying the highest standards of excellence in their noble profession. Naa Anin, MSN, BA, RN, RN-BC, CNOR Women’s and Outpatient Surgery Center Shirley Ashutabi, BSN, RN Integrative Care Unit Jodie Bell, MSN, RN, IBCLC Assistant Director, Maternal Newborn Health Jacquelyn King Slusher-Haslbeck, RN Emergency Department Heather M., BSN, RN, FNE-A/P Sexual Assault and Forensic Examination Program Celeste McNulty, MSN, RNC-NIC Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Stephanie R., MSN, RN, CNOR, FNE-A/P Sexual Assault and Forensic Examination Program Wayne Silver, BSN, RN Intensive Care Units Laurie Taylor, BSN, RN Emergency Department Teresa W., BSN, RN, FNE-A/P Sexual Assault and Forensic Examination Program Tracie Schwoyer-Morgan, DNP, ANP-BC Gilchrist Integrative and Palliative Medicine
Only 4% of cancers are of the head and neck, but the process and support needed can be strenuous.The Milton J. Dance Jr. Head and Neck Center at GBMC is the first choice of care for patients with head and neck cancer, voice, swallowing and communication disorders, attracting people from across the globe. Experienced surgeons bring together advanced surgical skill with compassionate care to treat each patient’s unique needs."Our care doesn't end with state-of-the-art surgery and advanced technology," Farzad Masroor, MD, head and neck surgeon at the GBMC Milton J. Dance, Jr. Head and Neck Center, said. "Our minimally invasive techniques and quality rehabilitation have created a healing environment with our integrated practice that minimizes your time in the hospital, while emphasizing the highest level of comfort and convenience for each patient.""Being diagnosed with head and neck cancer was daunting, but I am grateful for the team at GBMC, walking me through every step of the way," Todd, a patient, said.We're more than just healthcare providers. We're your team. At GBMC, we face cancer, together.
GBMC’s Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) & Domestic Violence (DV) Program provides medical-forensic sexual assault treatment for adolescents and adults, the only place in County that provides this service. And GBMC is the only hospital in Baltimore County and Harford County that provides medical-forensic sexual abuse treatment for children ages twelve and under. The program focuses on empowering our survivors to begin the healing process by providing choices of services in a confidential, non-judgmental atmosphere, with specially trained staff – at no cost to the patient. The SAFE & DV Program is comprised of Registered Forensic Nurse Examiners (who are specifically trained and certified by the Maryland Board of Nursing), child protection program interventionists and sexual assault/domestic violence advocates specially trained to care for victims of rape, sexual assault, child abuse, intimate partner violence, and human trafficking. In conjunction with the Baltimore County Police Department, Child Protective Services, the Baltimore County State Attorney’s office, local universities, Maryland Center for School Safety, and sexual assault counseling providers, the team has established comprehensive partnerships that ensure victims are treated compassionately and respectfully. In addition to treating victims, we provide community outreach and educational programs about: sexual assault, child abuse, human trafficking, internet safety, safe dating, and recognizing and dealing with violence in a relationship – with the goal of preventing abuse before it happens. And when it does happen, SAFE & DV staff provide expert nursing care, crisis counseling, and expert testimony, as needed, for dozens of cases each year. In fact, GBMC’s SAFE & DV program is leading the charge in this realm, becoming known nationally as a model of care for others to follow. Below is a very brief overview of some of the key program accomplishments from 2023 and a preview of what is in progress for 2024. This listing does not come close to describing all the nuances of the dedication of this team but serves as an overview of the important services they provide for the community (and country). Key accomplishments in 2023 include: Development of relationships with newly elected and government officials, such as First Lady of Maryland, Dawn Moore and Laura Clary’s participation in the new Resource Coordination group to support survivors of sexual/domestic violence through County Executive Johnny Olszewski. Presented at National Criminal Justice Training Center on Trauma Informed Care and Interview Practices Integrated Child Protection Program under SAFE & DV with the support of CPP Coordinator Danielle Nickles, LCPC. Significant community outreach through education, adolescent support groups, the SAFE squad monthly group activities, and media appearances. Multiple recognitions for our SAFE nurses, spanning from GBMC-sponsored awards like Art of Nursing, Spirit of King, Women of Impact, and Compassionate Caregiver to The Daily Record, Baltimore magazine, and Baltimore Banner. New and continued goals for 2024 include: Expand human trafficking awareness work to better identify risk factors and warning signs of human trafficking and provide resources for victims Provide weekly in-service trainings on trauma-informed care to Baltimore County Police Department Continue to present at national conferences Integrate a nurse practitioner under SAFE & DV Program Host annual regional symposium Click here to learn more about the SAFE & DV Program. To support the work of our SAFE & DV team, consider donating to or participating this year’s Walk a Mile in their Shoes event by clicking here.
Late last year, our Simulation Innovation Learning Center welcomed two new state-of-the-art manikins – one adult and one pediatric “patient” - to enhance opportunities for staff training. The new adult manikin, known as HAL by the manufacturer but as “Henry” at GBMC, is considered the world’s most advanced interdisciplinary patient simulator, designed for everything from emergency care to intensive care and med-surg training. Some of the features improving the trainee experiences include HAL's conversational speech functionality and lifelike motor movement. As Deborah (Deb) Higgins, DNP, RN, CHSE, Simulation Manager & AHA Training Center Coordinator, explains: “He has more artificial intelligence-like responses, so the more you use him for scenarios, the more language he can learn, and he can be programed to have a conversation with his care team.” He can exhibit stroke symptoms that weren’t possible in previous models, such as a slight facial droop and limited one-sided arm movement. Now, rather than fully relying on standardized patient actors for stroke scenarios, the Simulation Center has this offering to add to its repertoire. Deb also goes on to explain the manikin’s movement capabilities beyond those of its predecessors. “If I place my hand on Henry, he can bring his hand up in an act to move my hand away. If I pinch his back to elicit a stimulus response, he can say ‘ow’ and reach for my hand.” Some additional higher-fidelity features that are beneficial for physicians include advanced procedural capabilities; for example, placing an arterial line and performing chest tube procedures that feel more authentic than previous models of manikins. The most notable enhancements of the Pediatric HAL (also known as Jordan at GBMC) is his ability to simulate lifelike emotions through dynamic facial expressions, movement, and speech, allowing providers of all levels to develop the specialized skills needed to effectively communicate with, diagnose, and treat young patients in nearly all clinical areas. “Our previous pediatric manikins had basic functionality – they were static manikins who could exhibit a pulse and whose chests could rise and fall,” says Deb. “This pediatric manikin’s facial expressions very accurately show happiness, sadness, fear, and upset. He cries tears and can make very realistic crying noises while pursing his lips and can even support himself in a sitting position, move his head and track things with his eyes.” Deb concludes, “We are excited about these new additions to our Simulation Innovation Learning Center and continue to look forward to ways to continue upgrading with the most state-of-the-art capabilities.”
When I began my collegiate career at Towson University, I didn’t necessarily realize that nursing was my true passion. In fact, I graduated from Towson with a bachelor’s degree in economics, with a minor in Spanish. However, as I was finishing up those degrees, something inside me shifted. I had several friends who were nurses, and I deeply admired the care they provided. Plus, I had personal experiences with hospice care while supporting family members, which profoundly impacted me. That's when I realized I wanted to become a nurse. I started my nursing journey at Community College of Baltimore County - Essex, earning my associate's degree in nursing. I went on to earn my bachelor of science in nursing degree at Stevenson University followed by my master of nursing degree at Johns Hopkins University. Prior to joining the hospitalist team at GBMC, I worked with the colorectal surgery team at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. For more than three years now, I've been working as a hospitalist at GBMC. My role involves rounding on inpatient medical/telemetry units across the hospital. It's a challenging, yet rewarding, job — the variety of diagnoses we consistently encounter makes each day a little different and interesting. It's like solving a mystery, trying to figure out what's going on with each patient to help them to the best of my ability. I also serve as a lead advanced practitioner for my team, overseeing ten hospitalists. It's a role that allows me to combine my clinical skills with leadership and teamwork. What drew me to GBMC was not only the clinical diversity but also the sense of community. I feel appreciated and valued here, which makes all the difference. The culture of gratitude is evident from the welcoming demeanor of leaders and staff to gestures like providing turkeys for Thanksgiving, the annual Crab Feast, and various meals offered as a “thank you” for our work. I believe nursing, especially as a nurse practitioner, offers endless opportunities. Whether it's direct patient care, teaching, administration, or even flight nursing, there's so much you can do. It can even help prepare you to navigate and advocate for yourself and your family as you navigate healthcare. It's a career where you can be truly creative and make a difference. Outside of work, I cherish spending time with my family, including my partner of 20 years and our two cats. I grew up in the Baltimore area, but now I call Kent Island home with my family. We love exploring the Chesapeake Bay, traveling, cooking, and just enjoying life together. Balancing work and personal life is important to me—it's all about finding that harmony.
In November 2023, GBMC proudly unveiled its state-of-the-art units in the Louis and Phyllis Friedman Building, marking a significant milestone in the hospital's commitment to advancing patient care. Officially designated as the Fran and Mark Harris Patient Care Unit 42 - Medicine/Oncology and William C. and Suzanne Eck Higinbothom Patient Care Unit 52 - Medicine/Stroke, the new spaces have been transformative for staff and patients alike. An overarching theme to summarize the experience on the units is that the meticulous planning and consideration that preceded the design, construction, and move into the new space has paid off. “One of the immediate victories we’ve celebrated as a team is the sheer beauty and functionality of the new units,” says Rachel Ridgely, MS, RN, CNML, Director of Emergency Services, Critical Care and Medicine/Telemetry. “The spacious rooms, equipped with modern bathrooms, have vastly improved the patient experience." The enhanced nursing flow afforded by the ample space within the rooms has streamlined patient care, allowing nurses to attend to their duties more efficiently. From the clinical perspective, the nurse servers and supply cabinets with both inside and outside access further optimize workflow, ensuring that necessary supplies are readily available. "Access to technology has been great," Rachel says. “We appreciate the potential that the sophisticated technology on the units offers, like the Epic monitors that display essential patient information and computers in every room. Nurses have quick access to critical data at their fingertips, which is very convenient.” She reiterates that success in this arena is essentially as predicted and is a testament to the thoughtful pre-planning and preparation of a diverse multidisciplinary team. As with any transition or project implementation, opportunities for improvement have arisen along the way. “We knew going into it that having units significantly larger than our older units would mean more walking,” Rachel says. “So, it isn’t a huge surprise that we’ve had to be more intentional about staffing assignments and being creative about cohorting staff to specific sections of the unit to alleviate some of the time spent walking from one end to another.” Temperature regulation in the larger rooms has presented some unexpected challenges, requiring adaptive problem-solving strategies. The nursing team continues to collaborate with GBMC’s IT team to identify solutions for certain technology glitches experienced on the units. “Although there have been changes to adapt to, the benefits of the design and accommodations available in the new units vastly outweigh the challenges,” says Rachel. “We look forward to continuing to optimize our work on the units to make experiences as rewarding as possible for staff and as comfortable as possible for patients.”
