- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogLuminis Health is proud to announce that Deneen Richmond, president of Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC), has been named one of Modern Healthcare's 2024 Diversity Leaders. Modern Healthcare recognizes executives and organizations annually for their efforts to advance equity and inclusion within their organizations, and the healthcare industry at large. “I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this national recognition for our commitment to championing diversity at Luminis Health and within the communities we serve,” said Deneen Richmond, president of LHDCMC. “I want to thank our dedicated team of caregivers and staff for their commitment to lead as an anti-racist organization, their passion for eliminating health disparities, and their dedication to improving health outcomes for all by providing high-quality patient care close to home.” Modern Healthcare has honored Richmond for her dedication to several key initiatives, including: Founding the HEART Force: Richmond played a pivotal role establishing Luminis Health’s Health Equity & Anti-Racism Task (HEART) Force, which advocates for Justice, Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion (JEDI) policies Championing Workforce Diversity: Richmond is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce, with 84% of the hospital staff and 80% of her C-Suite identifying as racial/ethnic diverse Addressing Health Disparities: In support of Luminis Health’s strategic goal to eliminate maternal and infant mortality, Richmond is leading a major expansion of the hospital campus to include adding comprehensive inpatient obstetrics services. This initiative addresses critical health disparities, as the maternal mortality rate for Black women is 50% higher than the national average “Our Diversity Leaders in Healthcare awards have been changed to honor a new group of individual honorees each year and our 2024 class sets the bar high,” said Mary Ellen Podmolik, editor-in-chief of Modern Healthcare. “Some have been working on DEI initiatives for decades while others are newer to their positions and already have made a difference. The organizations honored set an example, from their leadership ranks to their programming efforts, of the results that can be achieved across a workplace. We hope industry leader continue to prioritize these efforts to better reflect, internally and externally, the communities they serve.” Modern Healthcare will honor Richmond, and all the 2024 Diversity Leaders, at an awards gala in Chicago in September.0
- Behavioral Health, PediatricsGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIt won’t be long before your kids are back to school, and while you’re making sure they have new clothes and all the supplies they need, be sure to take stock of their mental health. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that one out of every six students ages 6 to 17 has a treatable mental health issue such as anxiety or depression. Like with physical health issues, early identification and intervention can help prevent mental health issues from affecting your child’s academic performance and personal development. What causes mental health issues in children? Various factors contribute to mental health issues among students, including: Academic pressure: High grades, tests, and college admissions can create anxiety and chronic stress, impacting emotional health. Some levels of stress are normal, but chronic stress can lead to burnout and emotional distress. Encourage your children to take a balanced approach to schoolwork. Social dynamics: Positive peer interactions boost self-esteem, while bullying can lead to severe consequences like anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Promote healthy relationships for your child and take immediate action if bullying is suspected. Technology: Excessive screen time, especially on social media, can foster loneliness and cyberbullying, necessitating healthy digital habits. Monitoring online activities can help mitigate these risks. Home environment: Supportive families build resilience, while stress or conflict can magnify mental health issues. Overscheduling: Encourage free time for rest and creativity to prevent overscheduling, allowing your kids the space to rejuvenate and explore their creativity without constraint. Developmental changes Each academic phase presents unique challenges: Elementary school (kindergarten to grade 5). Younger children may experience separation anxiety, difficulty with social skills, and adapting to structured environments. Middle school (grades 6 to 8). Pre-teens face the pressures of puberty, identity formation, and increased academic demands. Social acceptance becomes more important to them, and bullying or peer pressure can significantly affect their mental health. High school (grades 9 to 12). Teenagers deal with the complexities of preparing for adulthood, including higher academic expectations, romantic relationships, and career planning. Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety often emerge during these years. Mental health resources Schools can’t do it alone. Luminis Health recently received a grant from the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission to partner with Prince George’s County Public Schools to implement comprehensive support services at six high schools. Beginning with the 2024-25 school year, Luminis Health is deploying mental health providers directly to the schools, collaborating with school counselors to offer vital support to students and parents. These embedded providers will rotate through the schools, providing education and training to students, parents, and teachers, ensuring access to evidence-based screening tools for identifying individual needs and strengths on an ongoing basis. Support Strategies Here’s how to bolster your child’s mental health: Regular check-ins. Talk regularly with your child about their feelings and experiences. Creating a safe space for those discussions can help you identify issues early. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Help your child explore the benefits of mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques as ways to not manage stress and anxiety, but also to foster a deeper spiritual connection within themselves. Physical activity. Regular physical activity, such as sports, yoga, or even walks, can help improve your child’s mood and reduce stress. A healthy lifestyle. Make sure your child eats a balanced diet and gets enough sleep. Limiting their screen time can have a positive impact on mental health. Professional support. Do not hesitate to get professional help when needed. Mental health is a fundamental aspect of a student's overall well-being. Understanding the challenges K-12 students may face daily and implementing supportive strategies can help ensure they have the resources and resilience to succeed academically and personally. If you, or your children, need mental health support, the Luminis Health Behavioral Health Urgent Walk-In Clinic in Lanham is available for anyone ages 4 and older. It is open Monday-Friday, 8 am to 5:30 pm for non-life threatening behavioral health needs. No appointment is necessary. Authors Joy Hudson is the clinical director of Behavioral Health at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center.0
- Cancer Care, Digestive CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIn recent years, researchers and doctors have observed a troubling trend: colorectal cancer, which includes colon and rectal cancer, is on the rise among millennials and Generation Z (Gen Z). With so much at stake, it’s important to understand how you can lower your risk and recognize symptoms. Discussing your bowel movements with your doctor—even if it feels embarrassing—could save your life. What Millennials and Gen Zers Should Know Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among both women and men in the United States. In 2019, the American Cancer Society found that 20 percent of new colorectal cancer cases were diagnosed in people 54-years-old or younger. Some researchers suggest that obesity and alcohol consumption—risk factors now more common in younger adults—may be contributing to the rise. Scientists are also investigating the link between environmental chemicals and colorectal cancer. So, what does this mean for millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) and Gen Zers (born between 1997 and 2012)? It’s more crucial than ever to be aware of the risk factors and make lifestyle changes to lower your risk. Ways to Lower Your Risk Having a risk factor for colorectal cancer doesn’t mean you’ll develop the disease, but it does increase your chances. Some factors are beyond your control, including: Age: While more young adults are being diagnosed, colorectal cancer is still more common in people over 50. Certain genetic syndromes Personal or family history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease Personal history of radiation treatment around the pelvis or abdomen However, there are many risk factors you can reduce by committing to a healthier lifestyle. Here are a few examples of beneficial lifestyle changes: Get regular screenings. Colorectal cancer screening should begin at age 45. Several types of screenings are available including colonoscopy and stool based testing like Cologuard. Talk to your doctor about which screening method is right for you. Move more and eat healthier. Diets high in red and processed meats are linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Instead, eat more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, five days a week. Limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking. Alcohol and nicotine use can increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. If you need help cutting back, ask your doctor about available resources. How to Recognize Colorectal Cancer Symptoms Many symptoms of colorectal cancer can be easy to miss, as they overlap with other common conditions. For example, hemorrhoids can also cause rectal bleeding. However, it’s important to be aware of key warning signs, including: Blood in or on your stool New changes in bowel habits, such as developing daily diarrhea or constipation Chronic abdominal symptoms, including cramps, pain, or bloating Unexplained weight loss Recurrent vomiting If discussing your bathroom habits with a doctor feels uncomfortable, you’re not alone. Studies show that younger adults are often reluctant to seek care for these symptoms, dismissing them as minor issues. However, if something doesn’t feel normal for you, it’s essential to schedule an appointment. Early detection is critical for improving colorectal cancer outcomes. It is also important to talk to your parents and siblings about conditions that could increase your cancer risk. Are You Due for a Colorectal Cancer Screening? At your next primary care visit, ask your provider if you’re due for screening and review your risks—especially if you’re 45 or older and haven’t been screened yet. To schedule a primary care appointment, visit Luminis.Health/PrimaryCare. Authors Andrew McGlone, MD, is the Executive Medical Director of Primary Care and Community Medicine at Luminis Health.0
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogLanham, MD—Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC) proudly marks its 50th anniversary, celebrating five decades of exceptional care and service to Prince George’s County. As part of this milestone, LHDCMC is hosting special events aimed at addressing maternal health disparities and supporting expectant and new mothers in the community. On Saturday, April 5, LHDCMC will host its 50th Anniversary Golden Gala, an evening of celebration and tribute to the hospital’s legacy of providing high-quality care since 1975. The event will bring together healthcare leaders, community advocates, and supporters to honor the hospital’s legacy while raising funds to expand services, advance health equity, and eliminate disparities. Following the gala, Luminis Health’s Community Improvement Department will hold a Community Baby Shower on Saturday, April 12, from 12 pm to 4 pm, on the LHDCMC campus. This free event will provide essential resources, education, and support for expectant and new mothers in Prince George’s County, featuring: Expert-led panel discussions on gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, postpartum depression, nutrition during and after pregnancy, and lactation Local vendors offering baby essentials and services Diaper and baby essential giveaways “We want mothers and loved ones to feel empowered about their health during pregnancy,” said Temi Oshiyoye, Luminis Health’s director of Community Health Improvement. “With 8 out of 10 moms having to leave Prince George’s County to give birth, we want them to know that support and resources are available close to home, before, during, and after pregnancy.” As part of its on-going commitment to maternal health, Luminis Health has opened an Ob-Gyn clinic in Greenbelt and launched CenteringPregnancy®, a nationally recognized program that offers group sessions for expectant mothers and personalized consultations with trusted Ob-Gyns and midwives. LHDCMC is finalizing design plans to add inpatient obstetric services, labor, delivery, and postpartum care with rooms designed for a family-centered birth experience. These initiatives will transform healthcare in Prince George’s County and play a crucial role in eliminating maternal and infant mortality, an ambitious goal of Vision 2030, the health system’s 10-year strategic plan. “Prince George’s County has a maternal mortality rate that is twice the national average, and this is simply unacceptable,” said Deneen Richmond, president of Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center. “Luminis Health is taking bold steps to address these disparities by expanding access to quality prenatal and postnatal care, educating families, and advocating for systemic change. These events are not just celebrations of our past but reaffirmations of our commitment to a healthier future for mothers and babies in the communities we serve.” Anticipated to open in 2028, the new state-of-the-art women’s health center on the hospital’s Lanham campus is expected to welcome approximately 2,000 babies each year once fully operational.0
- Pregnancy & BirthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIf you’ve just found out you’re pregnant, congratulations! This is such an exciting time. We hope you’re savoring every precious moment… without stressing too much. But first, a reality check. According to Prince George’s County health data, only about 6 in 10 mothers receive early prenatal care, and the maternal mortality rate is twice the national average. Luminis Health is committed to improving maternal health by expanding services, advancing health equity, and eliminating disparities. We’re here to help you with expert advice to help you maintain a healthy pregnancy and safeguard your baby before and after delivery. Here are some dos and don’ts: Pregnancy Do's Since every pregnancy is unique, your doctor will always have the best answers for you. But generally, it’s important to remember to: Eat well. A healthy, well-balanced diet will fuel your baby’s growth. Make sure to add seafood, especially fish high in omega-3 fatty acids. Exercise regularly. You don’t need a gym to stay active, there are plenty of ways to move your body at home. Try gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility or follow an online prenatal yoga video to ease stress and promote relaxation. Even simple activities like walking around your home, doing light bodyweight exercises, or practicing deep breathing techniques can help keep you active and feeling your best during pregnancy. Get plenty of sleep. It’s common to feel tired when you’re pregnant, and it can be hard to get comfortable with your growing bump. But sleep is essential for mother and baby (7-9 hours each night is best). Get your flu shot and other recommended vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control recommend certain vaccinations during pregnancy to help mothers develop antibodies that can be passed on to their babies, providing protection during the first few months of life. For example, the flu shot is safe and will protect you and your baby. The RSV vaccine is now recommended between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, particularly during RSV season (September thru January). Go to all your prenatal appointments. Pregnancy care is key to keeping your baby healthy. Consider joining CenteringPregnancy,® a new program offered at Luminis Health Ob-Gyn Greenbelt. With group sessions for expectant mothers and personalized consultations with trusted OB-GYNs and midwives, this nationally recognized program has been shown to improve birth outcomes, breastfeeding rates and patient satisfaction for new moms. Limit stress and maintain your mental well-being. When you’re pregnant, your body goes through a lot of changes, all of which can affect your mental health. Any steps you can take to feel connected, grounded and centered will go a long way toward ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Take a prenatal vitamin. Ask for doctor recommendations and look for a vitamin that includes folic acid and iron if needed. Travel safely. Your doctor will help you make informed decisions about traveling, including telling you when it’s best to stop traveling (usually by 36 weeks). Pregnancy Don'ts To protect your health and your growing baby, there are a few things you should avoid during pregnancy, including: Dangerous chemicals, including some household cleaners, and refrain from cleaning cat litter boxes Foods that increase the risk of foodborne illness, including deli meats, raw or processed meats, and unpasteurized milk and cheese Excess caffeine (one cup of coffee a day is usually safe) Hot tubs and saunas Radiation exposure, including X-rays, unless absolutely necessary Alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs Taking these steps can help you lower your risk of complications and prepare for a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery. Authors Dr. Jonelle Samuel, a Luminis Health Ob-Gyn, is a Prince George’s County native and practices in Greenbelt.0
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