Top Docs, Again, and Our New Building Is Becoming a Reality!

I’m proud to once again have the privilege of congratulating our physicians who were named “Top Docs” by Baltimore magazine. This year, more than 50 members of GBMC’s medical staff across 45 specialties have been recognized because they understand the power of not only treating what’s bothering their patients but also treating them as people. Click here to view GBMC medical staff who were included on the list. 

In addition to our Top Docs news, it’s also been a milestone week for GBMC, as we unveiled the first finished spaces within the Promise Project’s Louis and Phyllis Friedman Building! On Monday, we opened the doors of our wonderful gift shop – better known as The Corner Shop - in its new location. And on Tuesday, we introduced our brand-new Outpatient and Retail Pharmacy. Kudos to our Promise Project team, led by Russ Sadler, MS, MBA, Senior Director of Planning Design, and Energy Management, and to all those who played a part in these major accomplishments. 

The Corner Shop 

Congratulations to Patty Leaverton, gift shop manager, and her dedicated team of staff and
volunteers, on the opening of their beautiful and bright new shop! There is now more space, an expanded inventory, new greeting card lines, and even a dressing room to try on clothing before purchasing. There are really too many new features to list, so I hope you’ll stop in to see for yourself.  

For many years, Patty has been known for keeping The Corner Shop stocked with an impressive array of merchandise to cater to our patients, visitors, and staff alike. Whether you’re looking for flowers or a unique gift to brighten a loved one’s day, purchasing toiletries, or in need of a sweet treat, you can find it in this shop. I should know – I bought my favorite candy in the new location for the first time this week! 

To add to the vibrant new environment, the team that staffs the shop are second to none. I’m always in awe of their commitment to customer service, whether it’s through Patty compassionately guiding a caller to the perfect gift for a hospital patient or a helpful staff member providing complimentary gift wrapping after a purchase. 

Operating hours are 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday, November 4 only, we’ll open a little earlier than usual at 10 a.m.  

The Outpatient and Retail Pharmacy 

GBMC’s new Outpatient and Retail Pharmacy is officially open in the Friedman Building and will operate Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. We are thrilled to finally have our very own retail pharmacy in addition to our specialty pharmacy services. It’s a great convenience to patients as well as staff to have this option right on the main hospital campus. I hope you’ll stop by to see all the Pharmacy has to offer. 

In addition to over-the-counter and prescription medications, the new Pharmacy provides: 

• Medication management support 
• Medication delivery to patient rooms upon discharge 
• Access to specialty medications 
• Financial advocacy to help with out-of-pocket costs 

I’m grateful to Yuliya Klopouh, PharmD, Executive Director of Pharmacy Services, and her entire team for all the work they have done in planning the endeavor. Although it’s important to always appreciate our pharmacists and pharmacy technicians for ensuring safe and effective medication use, it seems doubly fitting to honor them today as we celebrate National Pharmacy Week in addition to the introduction of our new Pharmacy. Thank you to our pharmacy team for all you do! 

Raising Awareness and Thanking our Teams 

October 15-21 is International Infection Prevention Week, and it’s a great time for all of us to reflect on the importance of preventing the spread of germs. Of course, in healthcare, we are always keenly aware of infection prevention and its key role in patient safety. I’d like to take a moment to thank our team of infection preventionists for ensuring that we always keep infection prevention top of mind to keep our patients (and staff) safe. 

Physician Assistant Week was October 6-12, and I'd like to recognize our PAs for their important roles on our healthcare teams across the system. We are so thankful for their dedication to providing the best care and enhancing patient experience. In addition, Medical Assistants Recognition Week is October 16-20. Thank you to all our medical assistants whose patient care skills, versatility, adaptability, and compassion ensure top-notch, efficient care.