- Pregnancy & Birth, Women's Health, News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAnnapolis, MD – At a celebratory ceremony attended by community leaders, clinicians, and advocates, Luminis Health unveiled its new TeamBirth program today at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. The event marked an advancement in perinatal care, aimed at improving birth outcomes and reducing infant mortality across Maryland. With this launch, Luminis Health becomes the first health system in the state to implement this proven model of care.TeamBirth is an evidence-based initiative that promotes transparency and teamwork in perinatal care. At its core is a simple yet powerful tool: a planning board in each birthing room that allows patients, nurses, midwives, and physicians to align on care plans, share updates, and make decisions together. While aspects of this communication already occur, TeamBirth introduces greater consistency, clarity, and accountability. It enhances existing care practices by standardizing communication and fostering a shared approach, empowering teams to deliver safer, more respectful, and continuously improving care tailored to each patient’s needs. “TeamBirth is about making sure every patient has a voice during one of the most critical and joyous moments of their life,” said Dr. Monica Jones, system chair of Luminis Health Women’s and Children’s Service Line. “By fostering open communication and shared decision-making, we are adding another layer of safety and empowerment to the childbirth experience. Our teams are committed to delivering exceptional quality patient-centered care, while advancing birth equity for everyone who seeks our services.”Despite advances in modern medicine, the U.S. continues to face alarming rates of maternal and infant mortality overall. Luminis Health has taken significant steps in recent years to address the maternal health crisis and reduce disparities in care, including:Requiring implicit bias education and training for all maternal care staffImplementing strategies to reduce C-Section ratesEncouraging the use of doulas and nurse midwives to provide continuous, culturally responsive support during laborLaunched CenteringPregnancy® programs in both Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties to improve prenatal care through group-based education and support“At Luminis Health, we believe that by using evidence-based programs and listening to the people and communities we serve, we can end the maternal health crisis,” said Tori Bayless, CEO of Luminis Health. “Eliminating maternal and infant mortality is one of the bold goals outlined in our Vision 2030 strategic plan, and our teams remain dedicated to expanding access at every level of care.” Today’s event featured remarks from Luminis Health executive and clinical leaders and patient advocates, a demonstration of the TeamBirth toolkit, and opportunities for attendees to engage with members of the labor and delivery team. The announcement took place in the Rebecca M. Clatanoff Pavilion, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Since 1995, the Thomas J. Frank Family Birth Center has been a trusted space for families, where more than 145,000 babies have been born, making it one of the busiest birth centers in Maryland and a special part of the community. The TeamBirth program is fully funded through the generosity of long-time supporters of the hospital. “We are deeply grateful to our generous donors whose support makes innovative programs like TeamBirth possible,” said Sherry Perkins, president of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. “Their gifts directly enhances the quality of care we provide and help us better serve the families in our community—a community we’ve proudly served as a trusted place of care for more than 120 years.” Luminis Health also plans to implement the TeamBirth model at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center in Lanham when it adds inpatient obstetric services. Scheduled to open in 2028, the new women’s health center is expected to deliver approximately 2,000 babies a year once fully operational.Implemented by Unravel Healthcare, TeamBirth was developed by Ariadne Labs, a joint center for health systems innovation at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, MA.
- WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogYour health should be a top priority, and having a primary care provider (PCP) can make a big difference. Think of your PCP as your go-to health partner—someone who helps you stay well, manage ongoing issues and connect you with specialists when needed. Still, many people avoid going to the doctor. Whether it’s due to fear, discomfort or simply a busy schedule, it’s easy to let routine care slip through the cracks. But delaying care can lead to missed opportunities to catch issues early and stay on top of your health. Studies show that having a PCP is essential to staying healthy. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, people who have a PCP tend to manage chronic conditions better, spend less on healthcare and feel more satisfied with their care overall. Whether your PCP is a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant, they can help with most of your healthcare needs. Why Regular Visits to a PCP Matter Having a PCP isn’t just about convenience—it can lead to better health outcomes, including: Better Prevention: Each year, about 70% of adults with a PCP receive their flu shot, compared to just 42% of those without one. This simple action can be lifesaving, as the flu causes an estimated 12,000 to 51,000 deaths each year in the United States. Early Detection: The more your PCP knows about you and your health, the easier it is to catch issues early, when they’re easiest to treat. For instance, regular blood pressure checks can spot hypertension before it leads to heart disease. Lower Hospitalization Risk: Studies have shown that those with a PCP are less likely to be hospitalized for chronic conditions, like diabetes, asthma or heart disease, thanks to ongoing support and care. The Extra Perks Consistent Care: Seeing the same provider over time helps build trust and makes it easier to talk openly and feel truly understood. Better Communication: Over time, you’ll feel more at ease sharing your concerns and following their advice. Improved Health Outcomes: Regular care from a PCP is linked to lower death rates and better chronic disease management. Cost Savings: Preventive care, like checkups and vaccines, can help you avoid costly ER visits or hospital stays down the road. Ready to Take Charge of Your Health? Seeing a PCP regularly is one of the best things you can do for yourself. But the truth is, checkups are easy to put off. According to Prince George’s County Health Department data, only 83% of county residents have a regular PCP, below the statewide average of 87%. That means thousands are missing out on consistent, preventive care. Life gets busy, and healthcare often takes a backseat until something feels urgent. That’s why having trusted care nearby is so important—it helps make your health a priority before problems arise. Right now, 42% of Prince George’s County residents travel outside the county for care. Luminis Health is working to change that by recently opening primary care practices in District Heights and Greenbelt—making it easier to get the care you need, closer to home. This matters more than ever. Prince George’s County has higher-than-average rates of Type 2 diabetes, with many cases going undiagnosed. Early detection by a primary care provider is key to effectively managing this condition, leading to better long-term health. Let us be your health’s best ally. At Luminis Health, we’re here to be your partner in wellbeing, helping you reach your goals and build a healthier future for you and your family. Your health journey starts here—and having a primary care provider by your side makes all the difference. Find a PCP at Luminis.Health/PrimaryCare or call 301-927-0088 to schedule an appointment. Authors Layne Lesnau, is a Luminis Health nurse practitioner and practices in Prince George’s County.
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