As president of Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC), it was my honor to celebrate our hospital’s 50th anniversary. As I reflect on the past year, as well as on five decades of compassionate care, innovation, and service to our community, I am deeply proud of our legacy and excited about what the next 50 years will bring to Prince George’s County.
Before looking ahead, I want to first recognize our extraordinary year. Construction is officially underway on our Maternal Health & Campus Modernization Initiative. Road improvements were made to Good Luck Road, including new turning lanes at both hospital entrances, and a nearby traffic signal. These upgrades make entering and leaving our campus easier for patients, visitors, and staff. In 2026, crews will begin re-routing utilities such as water, electric, gas, and telecommunications to support the next phase of development.
Transforming Maternal and Women’s Health Care
Construction will also begin on our new women’s health pavilion, which will include inpatient obstetric services, including labor, delivery, and postpartum care. These expanded women’s health services are scheduled to launch in 2028, and once fully operational, we look forward to delivering 2,000 babies a year. By offering comprehensive women’s health services close to home, we can help reduce maternal and infant mortality rates in Prince George’s County, which remain higher than the national average.
This major initiative would be impossible without the support of our county and state leaders. We are grateful for the $45 million the state has already committed, as well as the additional $10 million preauthorized in the 2026 state budget, pending Governor Wes Moore’s approval. We will continue to work closely with our partners to secure $100+ million in state funding for the overall project, a transformation effort that includes significant financial investment from Luminis Health.
Strengthening Community Health and Behavioral Health
Our commitment to maternal health was at the heart of our 50th anniversary celebrations. We hosted events and activities designed to raise awareness, educate families, and enhance the health of the people and communities we serve. Highlights included our Golden Anniversary Gala, which raised vital funds for maternal health initiatives; a community screening of a documentary focused on the Black maternal health crisis; our hospital’s rededication ceremony attended by some of our hospital’s first patients; and a Community Baby Shower that welcomed nearly 100 new and expectant mothers.
While 2025 was an amazing year for LHDCMC, I recognize that many of our neighbors have struggled. From layoffs, to the government shutdown, it’s hard to feel joyful when you’re out of work and can’t put food on the table. Our Behavioral Health Team has been working tirelessly to provide mental health support and resources to help families cope during these challenging times. Our Behavioral Health Walk-In Urgent Care just launched expanded hours to address non-emergent behavioral health concerns. It is open on our hospital campus Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and now Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
We are also providing behavioral health education and support services in six county high schools. Developed in close partnership with local schools, the program has shown meaningful improvements in student well-being. Because of its success, the state renewed grant funding for this school year, an investment that reinforces the importance of school-based behavioral health initiatives and the power of collaborative community partnerships.
Our Community Health Team also regularly visits underserved neighborhoods to provide free health screenings, life-saving vaccinations, and education on diabetes and health disease. In the last fiscal year, we screened 220 residents in Prince George’s County, many of whom lack a primary provider or the financial resources for care.
Looking Ahead: Living Healthier Together
As we look to the next 50 years and beyond, our commitment to Prince George’s County remains stronger than ever. Luminis Health’s vision—Living Healthier Together—guides every investment we make, from expanding services to strengthening the partnerships that support our community’s well-being. One of the most important steps you can take for your health is establishing a relationship with a primary care provider. If you do not currently have one, I encourage you to connect with our team so we can help you find the right clinician for your needs. Together, we will continue building a healthier, stronger future for every person who calls this community home.
Finally, as we continue working together to protect the health of our community—both now and for generations to come—please remember that prevention matters. With flu cases rising throughout Prince George’s County, I encourage everyone who is eligible to get a flu shot.
Authors
Deneen Richmond is the president of Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center.