Grateful for All of You!

Thanksgiving is a time for reflection. Over the last several days, I have been reflecting on all that we have accomplished together. We have created a true community-based system of care with the capability of caring for someone from birth to death, in a way that we would want our own loved ones cared for. Our system is not perfect, and we still have work to do, but it is very good. 

In addition, we have committed the GBMC HealthCare System to be a part of the solution for the city of Baltimore. Our work at the Helping Up Mission and at the Gilchrist Center Baltimore is exemplary and we have only just begun to bring outstanding primary care to people who have been marginalized by the healthcare system, at our GBMC HealthPartners Jonestown patient-centered medical home. 

The work of our doctors, nurses, other clinicians and support staff including our volunteers at our fabulous hospital has been outstanding, especially given the challenges of the pandemic and the cyberattack. 

So, let me thank all my teammates in our system for all that you do every day. I am honored to work with you towards our vision. Please enjoy Thanksgiving with your families and reflect on all that we have to be grateful for. 

Transgender Day of Remembrance

Last Friday, we held a ceremony honoring the memory of the transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of violence over the past year. Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is an annual observance on November 20.

Transgender people often experience prejudice when accessing healthcare services. Understanding the unique needs of our patients can help improve their healthcare experience.  Their needs include transition-related or gender-affirming medical care designed to align physical characteristics with gender identity. Transgender individuals may also have unique health needs in reproductive care, gynecologic and urologic care, and mental health.  By taking time to learn more about the transgender experience in health care, you can play a part in bettering the lives of others.

I want to thank our Diversity & Inclusion Council for putting together this ceremony. I would also like to thank all the attendees who took the time to join and to reflect on the lives we’ve lost to transphobia.