- Orthopedics, UncategorizedGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAfter nearly 20 years managing pain for my patients as an orthopedic surgeon, I recently found myself on the other side of the medical system. I was the patient in need of a major surgical procedure. It was an eye-opening experience to say the least, and I gained a new appreciation for how vulnerable a patient feels when it comes to pain management. Opioids, such as Percocet and hydrocodone, are strong medications that play an important role in managing pain before and after surgery. Over the past 15 years, many factors have led to a dramatic increase in opiate prescriptions. Orthopedic surgeons rank third after pain specialists and primary care doctors in the number of opioid prescriptions they issue. The increase in prescriptions has led to more patients who become dependent or addicted to these drugs. This crisis has affected every social and economic class. Nearly one out of every three people in Maryland knows someone who is, or was, addicted. The rate of opioid-related deaths due to accidental overdose has more than doubled. These drugs cause more deaths than motor vehicle crashes or suicide. They’re also responsible for more patient deaths than cocaine and heroin overdose combined. The United States uses more than 92 percent of the world’s opiates, and we consume 99 percent of the hydrocodone manufactured. Yet, studies haven’t shown any increase in patient-reported pain to warrant this use. We should address the societal acceptance for these medications. Unfortunately, there’s not an easy solution to this problem. Doctors must do a better job of teaching patients about the risks of using opiates. Patients trust and rely on their doctors to guide them in managing their pain. Most patients do not willingly start abusing or misusing their pain medications. Many believe they are only following their doctor’s instructions. Opioid alternatives For most conditions that don’t involve surgery, doctors can manage patients’ pain without opiates. Medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol), certain anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs, like Motrin, Advil or Aleve), and Tramadol (Ultram) are all alternatives to opiate medications. Doctors can help manage pain before and after surgery by carefully using opiates. However, more opiates don’t always lead to better pain control. In some cases, they can lead to opiate-induced hyperalgesia. This means the more opiate the body’s pain receptors see, the more they want. For chronic conditions, a pain specialist is the best person to help manage pain. Role of patients and families Patients and family members also play an important role in preventing misuse or abuse of opiates. It can be difficult to identify people at risk of addiction, but those with opioid dependency tend to have psychological distress and poor coping skills. Behaviors like losing prescriptions or getting early refills are clear indicators. If a doctor expresses concern about possible addiction to a patient, the patient may be more open to their doctor’s concerns if family members also voice concern. At this point, it may be helpful to get the assistance of a pain management specialist or even going to a drug rehabilitation program. During my recent surgery, I realized that if it was difficult for me to navigate the system of pain management, it must be terrifying for non-medical professionals. Fortunately, I came through with a great result and a new focus on making sure my patients are well informed about their pain management plan. While the opioid epidemic is a complex problem, it’s important for patients and doctors to have open conversations about pain management to help stop opioid addiction. Author Alessandro Speciale, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon at The Spine Center at Anne Arundel Medical Center. To reach his practice, call 410-268-8862.0
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAs 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.0
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogLuminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC), a nationally recognized health system serving the Annapolis region for more than 120 years, has appointed Elizabeth Gross as the next vice president of the LHAAMC Foundation. In this role, Gross and her team will raise important funds to support LHAAMC, Pathways, J. Kent McNew Family Medical Center and our community. Gross has been with the LHAAMC Foundation since 2014 and became interim vice president in October 2022. Previously, she served as the Foundation’s director of advancement services and major giving officer. She has been instrumental in raising millions of dollars to build the J. Kent McNew Family Medical Center mental health facility in Annapolis, launch the hospital’s cardiac surgery program in 2020 and supporting our life-saving cancer care. From leading the Foundation’s operations to organizing the popular fundraiser Denim & Diamonds, Gross has demonstrated passion and enthusiasm to positively impact our patients and community. “After conducting a nation-wide search and reviewing dozens of talented applicants, it became clear Elizabeth was the right choice to lead our Foundation,” said Sherry Perkins, president of LHAAMC. “With deep business knowledge of philanthropy and the ability to tell the story of our patient centered care, Elizabeth brings a unique blend of experience, innovation, technology, commitment and community engagement. We are confident that under Elizabeth’s ongoing leadership, the Foundation will continue to excel.” Gross has worked in development for 15 years, previously serving roles at the United States Naval Academy Foundation and the Radcliffe Creek School in Chestertown, Maryland. “I am truly honored and humbled to be given this opportunity,” said Gross, vice president of the LHAAMC Foundation. “With the support of this incredible team, I look forward to building upon the countless community partnerships that have sustained and elevated LHAAMC throughout our 120-year history.” Gross is a graduate of the Association of Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) Resident program and serves nationally on the AHP Standards Committee. As a 2019 Leadership Anne Arundel (LAA) graduate, she also serves on the LAA Health and Human Services Day Committee. Gross holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Corporate Communications and Public Affairs from Southern Methodist University and became a Certified Fund Raising Executive in 2016.0
- Pregnancy & Birth, Women's HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogUnderstanding the importance of breastfeeding is key to setting your personal goals. Breast milk is what babies are meant to eat. It’s a natural source of nutrition and provides the healthiest start for an infant, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). They recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months (although any amount of time you breastfeed is beneficial) and say it’s an investment in the short- and long-term health of your baby, as opposed to just a lifestyle choice. Breast milk contains all the necessary vitamins and nutrients your baby needs in the first six months of life. The nutritional makeup of your breast milk will actually change to meet your baby’s changing needs. But the benefits of breastfeeding extend beyond basic nutrition for your baby and are also not limited to just mom and baby. Here are some of the amazing benefits of breastfeeding: Benefits of breastfeeding for Baby Breastfed babies have fewer episodes of infections and illnesses. It can reduce the chance of developing chronic disease later in life, such as diabetes and asthma. Breast milk is full of antibodies and nutrients that help the immune system and digestive tract. It can help brain and eye development. It increases bonding and helps baby form a secure attachment with mom. Benefits for Mom: It reduces the risk of developing cervical and breast cancers. It saves money! You already have all the milk you need to feed your baby. Breastfeeding helps the uterus shrink back to pre-pregnancy size and many moms find it easier to return to pre-baby weight. It releases hormones in your body that make you feel relaxed and closer with your baby. It’s an easy way to feed on the go! It’s always at the perfect temperature and ready to go when baby is hungry. Benefits for Family: It saves money! You already have all the milk you need to feed your baby. Breastfeeding allows the family to bond. Spouses can be an important part of breastfeeding by rocking and burping the baby and making sure mom is nourished too! Benefits for the Community: Breastfeeding is environmentally friendly since it really is all natural! It saves water, it doesn’t use energy for manufacturing, and it also doesn’t pollute the environment with garbage or pollution from manufacturing facilities. Breastfed babies are at a lower risk for obesity and chronic illness, which can help create an overall healthier community! For more information on the benefits of breastfeeding we recommend reading the American Academy of Pediatrics Policy Statement: Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk. Breastfeeding Resources: LHAAMC has a variety of ways to engage with professionals and community members who have experience with breastfeeding. Learn more about our breastfeeding resources or sign up for a future class or support group. Breastfeeding Warm Line: Anne Arundel Medical Center’s lactation staff is available to answer any questions you might have about breastfeeding. You can reach our consultants seven days a week via our Warm Line at 443-481-6977. Simply leave a message and they’ll return your call between 9 am and 4 pm the same day. Find a Lactation Consultant: A board-certified lactation consultant can help address your breastfeeding concerns or challenges. You can find one in your area through the United States Lactation Consultant Association directory.0
- Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3Blog‘Dad? Can you hear me?’ John* slowly opens his eyes at the sound of a familiar voice overriding the beeping of the medical monitor he’s been hearing next to him for the past few weeks. He is a little weak and has a sore throat. It takes him a few seconds to clear his vision and see the electronic tablet being held in front of him. Blinking quickly, his gaze brightens the moment he recognizes the three eager faces on the screen waiting for a response. Happy tears follow quickly. And they’re not just his. Tears are flowing from him, his family, and Kelly Beraducci, the Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC) family coordinator holding the electronic tablet. This is the first time John has been able to communicate with his family since being admitted to AAMC’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with severe symptoms related to coronavirus (COVID-19). The highly contagious virus led AAMC – and many hospitals across the nation – to put visitor restrictions in place for the safety of patients, families and staff. “Having the ability to do these video calls gives patients and their families a sense of hope,” Kelly says. “I get choked up every time I do these. It’s such a wonderful feeling of happiness to witness the moment families reconnect,” Kelly adds. “Some patients cry because they haven’t seen their families for weeks, others pray together and others laugh and joke.” Earlier that morning, Kelly was informed by the patient’s nurse that John was going to be extubated – or taken off the ventilator. She called his family, shared the good news that John’s health was on the mend and sent them the video call details. Throughout the day, she kept an eye on him to see when he was ready to get on camera. “It can be a hard sight for families to see their loved ones with all the medical supplies around them,” she said. “The family had been waiting for a long time for him to get to a point where he could talk and it finally happened that day.” Launching the Family Coordinator Program When AAMC put visitor restrictions in place due to the pandemic, staff in Patient Advocacy and Patient Experience knew this would be a shock for patients and loved ones. That same day, a team – formed by Inpatient Rehabilitation and Patient Relations Senior Director Kamila Frederick; Patient Experience Director Carole Groux; Patient Relations Coordinator Melissa Anderson; and Patient Advocacy, Interpretation Services and Spiritual Care Manager Anita Smith – convened to come up with a solution. Overnight, they launched the Family Coordinator program, which created positions for redeployed employees to facilitate communication between patients, families and staff. From left to right: Melissa Anderson, Ann Barnes, Kelly Beraducci, Janice Adams and Anita Smith. “We realized the restrictions would provoke a lot of anxiety,” says Smith. “We wanted to make sure there was a way we could keep patients and families connected at such a crucial time, whether they were COVID-19 patients or patients in other units.” To do this, the team redeployed a wide range of employees – including nurses, surgical advocates, patient care technicians, interventional radiology techs and more – to cover every unit. To date, there are 23 family coordinators working almost every day of the week. Since the program launched on March 20, family coordinators have been busy reaching out to families and scheduling calls. Working with AAMC’s Information Systems department, Patient Advocacy obtained four electronic tablets for family coordinators to start scheduling video calls. “You take for granted everything you can do by being able to pick up your phone,” Anita says. “Family coordinators and electronic tablets have become a lifeline in a time of isolation.” Becoming a Family Coordinator At 5 am, Kelly’s alarm goes off. She does a quick strength-training workout, showers and heads out the door to drive to the hospital, where she’s been working for the past 22 years. She goes directly to Edwards Pavilion, where she was working as a registered nurse prior to being redeployed as a family coordinator on March 25. The locker with her scrubs, shoes and PPE is still there. She changes her shoes, puts on her mask and heads over to the ICU dressed, with her supplies. By 7 am, she’s ready for the daily nursing report. “There are constant changes that we as family coordinators need to know about,” she says. “We’re learning more and more every day.” By the time it’s 8 am, doctors and nurses have completed their huddle, giving Kelly a good idea of where she should go first that morning. From that moment on, the phones begin to ring. “I get calls until my shift ends at 5:30 pm,” she says. “As nurses become available, I get updates from them to convey to the families. It’s a stressful time for everyone, so I try to be as kind, compassionate and understanding as I can be. I’m lucky to work with other compassionate family coordinators, like Sharon, who started with me. She goes above and beyond to take care of patients and their families.” Kelly calls all the families by phone and schedules an average of eight video calls per shift according to each patient’s condition and availability. Before she sees patients, she joins the video call with their family members. Wearing an N-95 and other protective equipment, she enters the room and greets the patient. ‘Hi, I’m Kelly.’ She tries to give each family at least 10 minutes to limit her exposure, although she lets most families squeeze in a couple of extra minutes. Halfway through the call, her arms become unsteady from holding the electronic tablet for the patient. Once the call ends, it’s time to move on to the next video call with another family patiently waiting to see their loved one. Each video call is different, but one thing that is consistent from one to the next is the patient’s and family’s relief in being able to connect through a screen. Kelly, too, feels the connection. She laughs, cries, celebrates and mourns with them as if they were one of her own. By end of her shift, Kelly’s smartwatch shows that she has walked five miles around her unit. If she has time, she goes downstairs to the post-anesthesia care unit, where there is another family coordinator, and checks on her recovering patients. “I went to see the very first patient I cared for as a family coordinator,” she says. “I cried during her first video call with her family and have felt very close to her since. I wanted to see her through because after so many calls with families and loved ones, you feel part of the family, too.” At a time where there only seems to be bad news everywhere, Kelly says there’s no other feeling like seeing her patients get better and leave happy. This, she says, keeps her going. Kelly works every other day, giving her time to slow down and relax in between her physically and mentally demanding shifts. When she gets home, she leaves her shoes outside and heads straight to the shower before greeting her family and dogs. While she changes, her husband and two teenagers prepare dinner and wait for her so they can eat together. “There is a lot going on,” she says, adding that she went from happy outpatient surgery scenarios to situations that don’t always have a happy ending and seeing families go through a loss without being able to be next to their loved ones. “It’s so mentally exhausting because you’re hearing the family’s anguish in their voices and trying to support them through a phone and screen. But I feel like I’m doing a great service to the families in helping them connect with their loved one.” When she comes into the hospital, Kelly says she approaches every day with compassion and kindness, reminding herself that she, too, has a family back at home waiting to see her at the end of the day. *Names have been changed to protect the patient’s and family’s privacy.0
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