A Vision Reaffirmed: Reflections from Our 2025 GBMC Board Retreat

Every great organization takes time to reflect, renew its purpose, and plan for the future. That’s exactly what we did during our recent 2025 GBMC HealthCare Board Retreat. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our Board members for their presence, insights, and commitment during this pivotal gathering.

Fifteen years ago, the members of this Board boldly recognized that being a "good hospital" was not enough. They laid the foundation for transformation, creating a vision for GBMC to become a true community-based health system—one that reaches beyond hospital walls to impact lives throughout our region.

At the retreat, we welcomed Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, the Chair of the Health Services Cost Review Commission (HSCRC) and the Associate Dean of the Bloomberg School of Public Health of Johns Hopkins University,  and Dr. Jonathan Kromm, the Executive Director of the Health Services Cost Review Commission. They participated in a panel discussion that was hosted by Jerry Focas, a past Board member, that discussed healthcare policy nationally and in the context of our state. Their validation of our strategy and mission was both energizing and affirming. They highlighted the growing complexities in healthcare nationwide, acknowledged challenges distinct to Maryland, given our unique global budget reimbursement system, and underscored that GBMC is not just prepared for the future – we’re helping to shape it. As we look toward the AHEAD model and other forthcoming changes, we stand as a state leader in high-value care.

In alignment with our strategic plan and our vision phrase – to provide every patient, every time, the care we would want for our own loved ones – we discussed potential policy shifts and identified critical opportunities to continue leading in value-based, equitable healthcare delivery. I'm grateful to our Board, our leaders, staff, and volunteers who are all ensuring we’re not just responding to the future. We are actively designing it.

Honoring Unsung Heroes

This April, we proudly recognize the incredible individuals who make GBMC exceptional. During Volunteer Appreciation Week, we honor over 800 volunteers who generously contribute more than 100,000 hours each year to support our mission. We also celebrate our Medical Laboratory Professionals and Health Information Professionals – whose behind-the-scenes expertise ensures diagnostic accuracy, patient safety, and seamless care coordination. Additionally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Administrative Professionals for their indispensable contributions to our daily operations. Thank you all for embodying the care we would want for our own loved ones.

Thank You for Making the 10th Annual Walk A Mile in Their Shoes a Remarkable Success!

Thank You for Making the 10th Annual Walk A Mile in Their Shoes a Remarkable Success! 

On behalf of the GBMC Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) & Domestic Violence (DV)
Program, thank you for making the 10th Annual Walk A Mile in Their Shoes an unforgettable event! 

Despite the rainy weather, we were thrilled to welcome a record-breaking crowd this year. Thanks to your energy, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment, we raised over $280,000—bringing our 10-year total to more than $1 million in support of survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, child abuse, and human trafficking.

With Event Co-Chairs Fred Chan, MD, and Lucky Thompson, Honorary Chair Coach John Harbaugh, and the Ravens Cheerleaders by our side, the day was filled with purpose and community spirit. 

Your generosity helps us provide around-the-clock expert medical and forensic care through the GBMC SAFE & DV Program. This milestone represents a decade of dedication, countless lives impacted, and hope restored. 

Thank you for walking with us, standing with us, and believing in a future free from violence. 

A special thank you goes to Morgan Varley, Director of Annual Funding, and Alissa Smith, Community Relations and Events Manager, for their leadership in coordinating this fabulous walk for our community each year!

Click here to view more pictures from the event!

Nominate a Top Doctor 

Baltimore magazine is now accepting nominations for its annual Top Docs issue—and we encourage all GBMC physicians to participate! 

This is your opportunity to recognize a colleague whose compassion, clinical expertise, and commitment to holistic patient care truly make a difference. 

Your nomination helps shine a spotlight on the remarkable physicians who represent the best of our medical community—and reinforces GBMC’s reputation as a leader in outstanding, patient-centered care. 

Nominate by June 9. 

You’re Invited: EmpowHER Breast Center Celebration 

Celebrate with us! You're invited to the EmpowHER Breast Center Celebration on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. at the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion. 

Join us in celebrating the new home of the GBMC Sandra and Malcolm Berman Comprehensive Breast Care Center. The evening will feature celebration and & self-care, breast health education, light fare, and beverages. Space is limited, so I hope you’ll RSVP by May 9 to reserve your spot! 

And, finally, happy Passover and happy Easter to all those celebrating! 

Take a Step, Change a Life: Join Us Today for Walk A Mile in Their Shoes

Today’s the day! At 4 p.m., we come together for a cause that brings our community to its feet — the 10th Annual Walk A Mile in Their Shoes at GBMC. We’re honored to have Ravens Coach John Harbaugh as this year’s Honorary Chair, joining us in our mission to support those impacted by sexual assault, child abuse, domestic violence, and human trafficking. 

Since its beginning, this walk has stood as a symbol of solidarity and strength. The funds raised support GBMC’s Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) & Domestic Violence (DV) Program, which provides round-the-clock care every day of the year. This year, as federal funding faces uncertainty, your support is more important than ever. 

Join over 750 walkers already registered! If you can’t attend, there's still an opportunity to support the cause by making a donation or participating in an auction — every dollar makes a difference. 

Let’s come together, step by step, to shine a light on these critical issues and ensure these services remain available to those who need them most. 

Celebrating National Donate Life Month: A Gift That Transforms Lives 

Throughout April, we celebrate National Donate Life Month (NDLM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about the critical importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation. Established in 2003, this observance serves as a reminder of the countless lives saved and transformed through donation. 

Organ donation is often the only hope for those facing end-stage organ failure — offering not just treatment, but a second chance at life. Yet, despite its life-saving potential, access to transplantation remains limited due to the ongoing shortage of available organs. Nearly 100,000 people are currently on the national transplant waiting list, and tragically, 17 people die every day waiting for an organ that never comes. 

Reflecting on my time as national co-chair of the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Organ Donation Breakthrough Collaborative in the early 2000s, I saw firsthand the complexities and challenges of organ procurement and transplantation. And while GBMC is not a transplant center, our voice — and yours — is essential in spreading awareness and encouraging individuals to register as donors. 

Just one donor can save multiple lives by donating the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas, and intestines. There is no age limit to becoming a donor, and active cancer is the only automatic exclusion. Most importantly, organ donation transcends cultural and religious boundaries — with all major Western religions supporting it as a selfless act of compassion and humanity. 

As we commemorate National Donate Life Month, we honor those who have given the ultimate gift and hold space for those still waiting. 

Click here to register as an organ, eye, and tissue donor in Maryland.

Your decision to register could be the lifeline someone is desperately waiting for. 

Also Happening This Week at GBMC: 

Occupational Health Nurses Week 

Thank you to our occupational health nursing team for their unwavering commitment to keeping our workforce safe, healthy, and supported every single day. 

National Public Health Week
We proudly join the American Public Health Association in promoting community-wide access to the tools, education, and advocacy needed to live healthier lives. 

National Cancer Registrars Week 
A heartfelt thanks to our cancer registry professionals whose vital work helps advance cancer research, improve patient care, and guide future treatments. 

April is a powerful reminder that awareness leads to action — and that action saves lives. Whether you’re walking with us today, registering as a donor, or thanking a colleague, your impact is real. 

We’ll see you at 4 p.m. — ready to walk, support, and stand together.

A Global Exchange of Ideas, A Local Commitment to Excellence

As part of our journey toward Baldrige Excellence, GBMC HealthCare continues to open our doors—and our minds—to learn from and share with others committed to high-quality, patient-centered care. 

This week, as part of the Quest for Excellence Conference, we had the distinct honor of hosting leaders from Mary Greeley Medical Center (MGMC) in Ames, Iowa—2019 Baldrige Award recipients. I was especially proud to see Brian Dieter, President & CEO of MGMC, receive the Harry S. Hertz Leadership Award—an honor I was fortunate to receive in 2022. 

Our teams shared best practices, including how our Pediatrics team, led by Sarae Baum, is improving access for our sickest patients, and how Interventional Radiology, under the leadership of Leticia Armstrong, has helped to reduce the number of late case starts. The MGMC team joined our Executive Lean Management System (LMS) walk and saw firsthand how our commitment to improvement is making a real difference for patients. 

Later in the week, we had the privilege of welcoming delegates from the China Association for Quality. I was happy to introduce our guests through the GBMC Leadership System and joined our Performance Improvement and Innovation team, led by Michele Patchett, as we showcased our work on hospital flow and system design. 

These conversations—spanning states and continents—reinforce that while we may operate in different contexts, our commitment to delivering better care transcends borders. 

A heartfelt thank you to our GBMC team members who helped us host these visits: 

• Michele Patchett, Director of Process Improvement/Innovation 
• Lisa Groff Reuschling, Senior Clinical Nursing Director - Labor and Delivery 
• Jason Cole, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer 
• Erlene Washington, Senior VP and Chief Operating Officer of GBMC Health Partner 
• Jack Flowers, Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer 
• Eve Bowmaster, Senior Director Quality and Patient Safety - Ambulatory Services 
• Sarah Muslim Lefebvre, Senior Program Manager for System Improvement 

From Mary Greeley Medical Center: 

• Brian Dieter, President & Chief Executive Officer 
• Karen Kiel Rosser, Vice President & Quality Improvement Officer 
• Amber Deardorff, Chief Operating Officer/Chief Nursing Officer

From the China Association for Quality: 

• Dr. Duan Yonggang (Tony), Executive Vice President & Secretary-General 
• Dr. Chen Shilin, President of the Chinese Medicine Branch and Professor at Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 
• Mr. Hou Jinfeng (Jeremy), Deputy Secretary-General and Leader of the China Quality Award Program 
• Mr. Li Tiegang, Assistant Secretary-General and Secretary-General of the Legal Branch 
• Mr. Lin Hai (Danny), Chief Strategic Branding Consultant 
• Ms. Wang Shengqi (Cherlyn), Deputy Director, International Exchange Department 
• Mr. Paul Grizzell, President of Core Values Partners, Inc., Foreign Evaluation Expert and Academic Committee Member for CAQ 

As we reflect on these meaningful visits, let’s also recognize the incredible work happening across GBMC this week in honor of several national observances: 

• Anesthesia Tech Week (March 31–April 4): Our anesthesia technologists and technicians ensure safe, seamless surgical care. Thank you for your critical role in every procedure. 
• National Donate Life Month (April): Organ, eye, and tissue donation offers life and hope. Learn more or register at infinitelegacy.org. 
• Occupational Therapy Month (April): From NICU infants to elderly patients regaining independence, our OTs help our patients thrive. 
• Patient Access Week (March 30–April 5): You are the first touchpoint for many of our patients, setting the tone with accuracy, compassion, and professionalism.  

Each of these observances—and the global collaborations we’ve hosted—showcase who we are at our core: a health system committed to doing better for every patient, every time. I am grateful for your dedication.

Saving Lives through Evidence-Based Screening and Early Diagnosis

Colorectal cancer remains a significant health concern, being the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. However, the implementation of regular screening programs has led to a notable decline in both incidence and mortality rates. Over the past 15 years, colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates have decreased by over 30% among adults aged 50 and older, with a substantial portion of this decline attributed to increased screening efforts, according to recent research. 

Screening is pivotal in detecting precancerous polyps and early-stage cancers, thereby preventing the progression of the disease. The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals at average risk begin regular screening at age 45, a shift from the previous guideline of 50, due to rising cases among younger populations. 

Several evidence-based screening options are available: 

• Colonoscopy: Considered the gold standard, it allows for comprehensive examination and removal of polyps during the procedure.  
• Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): A non-invasive stool-based test that detects hidden blood in the stool, recommended annually. Tests like Cologuard combine FIT and DNA testing for accurate results. 
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Examines the lower part of the colon and is typically performed every 5 to 10 years.  

At GBMC HealthCare, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive gastrointestinal (GI) services, including advanced screening and surgical options. Our team of specialists is committed to delivering patient-centered care, utilizing the latest evidence-based practices to ensure optimal outcomes.  

Emphasizing the importance of evidence-based medicine is crucial because misinformation can lead to detrimental health decisions. Routine screenings, grounded in rigorous scientific research, have demonstrably reduced cancer mortality rates. We encourage everyone to consult with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate screening strategy based on individual risk factors.  

Regular colorectal cancer screening is a proven, life-saving measure. By adhering to recommended guidelines and utilizing available screening options, we can continue to make significant strides in reducing the impact of this disease. 

To contact gastroenterology specialists at GBMC, please call 443-849-3400. And, for GI surgery/oncology, please call 443-849-3130. 

Thank You to Our Physicians 

National Doctors' Day is celebrated annually on March 30. Thank you to all our doctors, who deserve year-round recognition for their commitment to providing all those we serve with the care we would want for our own loved ones! 

Transgender Day of Visibility 

Each year on March 31, the Human Rights Campaign honors International Transgender Day of Visibility, a time to celebrate transgender and non-binary people around the globe and acknowledge the courage it takes to live openly and authentically. Please join us as we honor the joy and resilience of transgender people everywhere.

Celebrating Women of GBMC HealthCare

This week, the Women’s Leadership Alliance Employee Resource Group (ERG) hosted the third-annual Women of Impact Awards, honoring individuals whose outstanding contributions uplift the GBMC HealthCare community. These awards recognize those who embody leadership, mentorship, inclusion, lifelong learning, and behind-the-scenes dedication. 

Please join me in congratulating this year’s winners: 

• Inclusion Champion – Claire Cafirma, DNP, RN, CNOR, Director of Perioperative, Interventional Radiology, and Endoscopy, is a true advocate for inclusion at GBMC. She has been an active member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Planning Committee for the past three years and has played a vital role in planning Filipino Heritage Month celebrations, ensuring they are meaningful and engaging for our community. Claire is also deeply committed to supporting GBMC’s international nurses, helping them acclimate and fostering a welcoming environment.  
• Lifelong Learning – Ashley Bandurchin, DNP, RN, CCRN, CSSGB, EBP-C, CENP, Assistant Director of Professional Practice, Education & Research, is the embodiment of lifelong learning. Recently earning her Doctor of Nursing Practice, she actively mentors others in their educational pursuits while ensuring GBMC’s nursing policies align with best practices. She fosters a culture of curiosity and evidence-based care among her colleagues. 
• Leadership – Michele Patchett, RN, MSN, LSSBB, Director of Process Improvement/Innovation, is a transformational leader driving continuous improvement at GBMC. She applies her advanced certifications, including a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, to spearhead quality initiatives that make a measurable impact—most notably in improving maternal health outcomes. 
• Mentoring – Tracie Schwoyer-Morgan, DNP, ANP-BC, Director of Palliative Medical Support Services, is the heart of mentorship in GBMC’s palliative care team. Her guidance, patience, and encouragement empower colleagues, ensuring that compassionate, high-quality care continues for future generations. 
• Unsung Hero – Barbara Colleran, Executive Assistant and Support Services Coordinator, is the backbone of GBMC’s support services. From managing vendor operations to coordinating employee events, she works behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. Her commitment to both logistics and community-building makes her an invaluable part of our team. 

For the Unsung Hero Award, we also recognized three incredible honorable mentions who exemplify dedication and quiet excellence: 

• Stacey Rotman, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, Director of Nursing Administration and Human Resources Liaison: A driving force in nursing recruitment, Stacey has refined a best-in-class hiring process that has strengthened GBMC’s nursing workforce. 
• Ruby Victor, RN, Unit 28 – Labor and Delivery: With clinical intuition that has saved lives, Ruby is a steadfast presence in Labor and Delivery, always ensuring the highest standards of care. 
• Jasmin Phillips, Sodexo Patient Services Supervisor: Known for her kindness and support, Jasmin fosters a strong sense of community in Patient Services, making a difference every day.

Again, congratulations to all! 

Speaking of influential women, I’m happy to share that GBMC's Chief of Staff Robin Motter-Mast, DO, MBA, FAAFP, DipABLM, CPE, was named a 2025 Top 100 Women honoree by The Daily Record! Maryland’s Top 100 Women recognizes high-achieving Maryland women who are making an impact through their leadership, community service, and mentoring. Congratulations, Dr. Motter-Mast! 

In additional news....  

Mark your calendars for “A Walk Down Memory Lane,” a special prom for all senior citizens and their chosen “plus one”—a family member, friend, or professional caregiver. This joyful event, hosted by Avila Home Care, will take place on Sunday, April 6 from 1–3 p.m. at Loyola Blakefield School. I encourage you to spread the word and RSVP to attend. Let’s make this a memorable afternoon for our seniors! 

Avila Home Care is one of our trusted partners for critical services for patients who require support in the home, including:

• Personal care  
• Companion care 
• Memory care 
• Hospice support 
• Care for veterans 
• Transportation 
• Light housekeeping 
• Laundry 
• Meal preparation 
• Medication administration 

The prom event adds to this list of wonderful services Avila provides to our community. 

Staff Recognitions 

March 16–22 is Gastrointestinal (GI) Nurses and Associates Week! Please join me in thanking our GI nurses and associates for the critical work they do each day to support patients through prevention, screening, and treatment. As March is also Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, I want to remind everyone that if you’re 45 or older, it’s a great time to schedule your colonoscopy. Call GBMC Gastroenterology at 443-849-3400 or GBMC Colon & Rectal Surgery at 443-849-3130 to take this important step for your health. 

Certified Nurses Day was March 19, and I’m grateful to our incredible GBMC nurses who have pursued national board certification in their specialty areas. Your dedication to excellence improves outcomes and enhances the care experience for our patients!

Be a Safety STAR: Celebrating Patient Safety Awareness Week at GBMC

This week marks National Patient Safety Awareness Week, a time to reaffirm our commitment to the highest standards of care and patient protection. This year’s theme, “Be a Safety STAR!”, highlights the importance of SafeTy, Accountability, and Reliability in healthcare. At GBMC, we live by these principles every day, ensuring that every patient receives the care we would want for our own loved ones. 

Empowering Patients for Safer Care 

At GBMC, patient safety isn’t just an awareness week—it’s embedded in our culture year-round. Our STAR tool for incident reporting continues to strengthen our culture of safety, empowering staff to speak up when they see opportunities for improvement. Our Lean Management System has helped us reduce hospital-acquired infections and patient harm by tracking and improving our safety efforts every day. 

Ensuring safety in a hospital setting is a shared responsibility between healthcare providers and patients. Here are a few essential tips to help patients advocate for their safety: 

• Communicate Clearly: Always share your medical history, allergies, and medications with your care team. 
• Ask Questions: If you don’t understand something about your treatment, ask for clarification. 
• Hand Hygiene: Make sure everyone washes their hands before providing care. 
• Medication Safety: Double-check prescriptions and dosages with your provider. 
• Prevent Infections: Follow wound-care guidelines and infection prevention measures. 
• Understand Your Treatment Plan: Know your discharge instructions and follow-up steps. 
• Use Call Buttons: If you feel unwell or need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask for help. 
• Prevent Falls: Use assistive devices if needed and ask for help when moving. 
• Involve Family or Friends: A trusted advocate can help ensure instructions are followed. 

If you have ideas on how we can further enhance patient safety, I encourage you to reach out. Together, we are patient safety! 

Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman Visits GBMC’s SAFE Unit 

This week, several colleagues had the privilege of hosting Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman, who toured our Sexual Assault Forensic Examination & Domestic Violence (SAFE & DV) Program. This program, which provides compassionate care and forensic services for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and human trafficking, is a vital part of our commitment to the community. 

Our SAFE & DV suite is designed to provide a private, secure, and healing environment for survivors, with state-of-the-art forensic technology and a dedicated team of forensic nurse examiners. The visit was an important opportunity to highlight the critical work our team does and the ongoing need for resources to support survivors. 

We are grateful for leaders like Comptroller Lierman who take the time to learn about and support programs that make a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals. I invite everyone to join us for our 10th annual Walk A Mile in Their Shoes event on Friday, April 11 at 4 p.m., where Ravens Coach John Harbaugh is serving as this year's Honorary Chair for Walk A Mile and will be walking with us! Proceeds benefit our SAFE & DV Program, and you can register today by visiting www.gbmc.org/walkamile.  

Recognizing Healthcare Human Resources, Nutrition Experts, and Cultural Celebrations 

A healthcare system is only as strong as its people. This Healthcare Human Resources Week, we extend our gratitude to our HR team for their dedication to recruiting, retaining, and supporting the professionals who make GBMC a trusted name in care. On March 12, we recognized Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day, honoring the vital role of dietitians in patient recovery and long-term health. 

Iftar at GBMC 

This past Wednesday, March 12, GBMC sponsored an Iftar Program and Dinner, marking the daily breaking of the fast for our Muslim colleagues and community members during Ramadan. The meal, catered by Kandahar Afghan Kitchen, provided an opportunity for fellowship and cultural appreciation. 

Happy Holi! 

To all who celebrate, Happy Holi! This Hindu Festival of Colors is a beautiful reminder of renewal, joy, and the victory of good over evil. May your year be as vibrant as the celebrations!