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November 14, 2025

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

1C Commerce

University of Maryland Eastern Shore Names Judy Diaz General Manager of Delmarva Public Media

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The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) is proud to announce the appointment of Judy Diaz as the new General Manager of Delmarva Public Media—a collaborative network of public radio stations WSCL, WESM, and WSDL, licensed by the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and Salisbury University. The stations offer a diverse lineup of news, jazz, R&B, blues, classical, and adult album alternative programming across the Delmarva Peninsula.

Judy brings a distinguished career in media and innovation to the role. She was instrumental in launching PBS KIDS in 1999 and later led brand and audience strategy across PBS. She founded PBS Next Avenue, a digital platform serving adults 50+, and later joined AARP to lead strategy and operations for the digital initiative Life Reimagined. She also served as Vice President of Marketing at POLITICO and worked with Paul Allen, founder of Ancestry.com, on a number of start-ups.

Since relocating to Maryland’s Eastern Shore in 2021 with her husband Kevin Diaz, a journalist who now freelances for Delmarva Public Media, Judy has focused on strengthening local media. As General Manager of WHCP in Cambridge, MD, she secured funding to transition the community station into a full-power NPR affiliate. Following the retirement of Delmarva Public Media’s previous General Manager in 2024, she served as interim GM, leading a number of key initiatives.

During her interim GM tenure, Judy expanded local news and locally-produced music programming, upgraded production and broadcast infrastructure, launched Intergenerational Beats which pairs experienced journalists with journalism students to cover pressing topics for Delmarva listeners, revamped the station’s website for improved access to content and information, and built an emergency alert system infrastructure in Princess Anne to now have emergency alerts throughout Delmarva.

“Judy brings the ideal blend of media and startup experience for this pivotal moment in public media,” said Robert Vickers, Vice President for Strategic Communications and Marketing at UMES. “It’s exactly what these stations need—respect for their legacy, with a clear eye on the future of public media.”

“I feel like all of my career has led to this role,” said Diaz. “It’s incredibly important and meaningful to ensure that local, independent, and non-commercial public media not only survives but thrives on the Eastern Shore, even in the face of the recent federal funding cuts. The dedicated team at Delmarva Public Media built a strong foundation, and we’re all committed to carrying it forward.”

We are excited to welcome Judy into this permanent leadership role and look forward to the continued growth and impact of Delmarva Public Media under her guidance.

For more information about Delmarva Public Media go to delmarvapublicmedia.org.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

University of Maryland Shore Medical Group Welcomes Dr. Joshua Harrison and Announces the Opening of a New Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery Practice in Easton

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The University of Maryland Shore Medical Group (UM SMG) is proud to announce the opening of UM SMG – Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, a new specialty practice offering advanced cosmetic and reconstructive services. The practice, led by Joshua Harrison, MD, will begin seeing patients on September 1, 2025, at 5 Martin Court in Easton, Maryland. UM SMG encompasses the medical practices affiliated with University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH), a member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System.

A board-eligible plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Harrison specializes in both aesthetic procedures and complex reconstruction. He will work closely with the Clark Comprehensive Breast Center at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH) to provide breast reconstruction services for patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer and other breast conditions.

“Dr. Harrison’s expertise enhances our ability to offer seamless, compassionate care for breast cancer patients and others in need of reconstructive or plastic surgery,” said Timothy Shanahan, MD, Medical Director, UM SMG. “We are excited to bring this new level of specialized care to the community.”

Since 2000, the Clark Comprehensive Breast Center has provided women with timely access to breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and support. The Center is staffed by a fellowship-trained breast surgeon and a multidisciplinary team that offers diagnostic imaging, genetic testing, counseling and treatment services—all designed to empower women to make informed, positive decisions about their health.

Dr. Harrison also offers a wide range of aesthetic services, including facial cosmetic surgery, body contouring, scar revision and non-surgical treatments such as injectables and dermal fillers. His approach is grounded in precision, compassion and a commitment to helping patients feel confident and comfortable in their own skin.

Dr. Harrison earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completed his plastic surgery residency at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. He also received advanced microsurgical training at two world-renowned institutions: Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taipei, Taiwan, and MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. He holds a Master of Science degree in biomedical engineering and has published extensively in the fields of reconstructive and regenerative medicine.

Appointments are now being scheduled. To book a consultation, please call 667-343-1087.

About University of Maryland Shore Regional Health 

A member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH) is the principal provider of comprehensive health care services for more than 170,000 residents of five counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore: Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot. UM SRH consists of approximately 2,000 team members, including more than 600 health care providers on the Medical Staff, who work with community partners to advance the values that are foundational to our mission: Compassion, Discovery, Excellence, Diversity and Integrity. For more information, visit https://www.umms.org/shore.

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. Partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore who educate the state’s future health care professionals, UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban and rural communities across the state of Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the System’s anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Free “Welcome to Medicare” Presentations Scheduled in Linkwood and Cambridge

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“Welcome to Medicare,” a free and educational presentation that covers how the different parts of Medicare work, will be provided on Monday, August 18, 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Linkwood-Salem Volunteer Fire Company, 3905 Ocean Gateway in Linkwood, Md.

Offered by MAC Inc. Area Agency on Aging’s State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) in partnership with Avery Hall Insurance and the Dorchester Shore Community Outreach Team (SCOT), “Welcome to Medicare” covers Medicare timelines, cost and coverage, Advantage and Supplemental plans, how to spot fraud, and your rights as a Medicare recipient. SCOT is a community-based health service of University of Maryland Shore Regional Health, a member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System.

“Insurance can be confusing, and Medicare is no exception,” said Rochalla Jones, BSN, RN, Dorchester SCOT Nurse Coordinator. “This presentation is designed to be informative for individuals who are still working as well as those who are retired or on disability – anyone who is getting ready to enroll in Medicare.”

In addition to the August presentation date in Linkwood, “Welcome to Medicare” will be offered in Cambridge on Monday, September 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health at Cambridge (2nd floor conference room), 713 Cambridge Marketplace Blvd.

Space at both events is limited and advance registration is required. To register, call the Dorchester Shore Community Outreach Team office at 443-225-7545.

About University of Maryland Shore Regional Health 

A member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH) is the principal provider of comprehensive health care services for more than 170,000 residents of five counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore: Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot. UM SRH consists of approximately 2,000 team members, including more than 600 health care providers on the Medical Staff, who work with community partners to advance the values that are foundational to our mission: Compassion, Discovery, Excellence, Diversity and Integrity. For more information, visit https://www.umms.org/shore.

 

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high-quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. Partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore who educate the state’s future health care professionals, UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban and rural communities across the state of Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the System’s anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Free “Welcome to Medicare” Presentations Scheduled in Linkwood and Cambridge

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Welcome to Medicare,” a free and educational presentation that covers how the different parts of Medicare work, will be provided on Monday, August 11, 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Linkwood-Salem Volunteer Fire Company, 3905 Ocean Gateway in Linkwood, Md.

Offered by MAC Inc. Area Agency on Aging’s State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) in partnership with Avery Hall Insurance and the Dorchester Shore Community Outreach Team (SCOT), “Welcome to Medicare” covers Medicare timelines, cost and coverage, Advantage and Supplemental plans, how to spot fraud, and your rights as a Medicare recipient. SCOT is a community-based health service of University of Maryland Shore Regional Health, a member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System.

“Insurance can be confusing, and Medicare is no exception,” said Rochalla Jones, BSN, RN, Dorchester SCOT Nurse Coordinator. “This presentation is designed to be informative for individuals who are still working as well as those who are retired or on disability – anyone who is getting ready to enroll in Medicare.”

In addition to the August presentation date in Linkwood, “Welcome to Medicare” will be offered in Cambridge on Monday, September 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health at Cambridge (2nd floor conference room), 713 Cambridge Marketplace Blvd.

Space at both events is limited and advance registration is required. To register, call the Dorchester Shore Community Outreach Team office at 443-225-7545.

 

 

About University of Maryland Shore Regional Health 

A member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH) is the principal provider of comprehensive health care services for more than 170,000 residents of five counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore: Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot. UM SRH consists of approximately 2,000 team members, including more than 600 health care providers on the Medical Staff, who work with community partners to advance the values that are foundational to our mission: Compassion, Discovery, Excellence, Diversity and Integrity. For more information, visit https://www.umms.org/shore.

 

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high-quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. Partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore who educate the state’s future health care professionals, UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban and rural communities across the state of Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the System’s anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Dorchester Shore Community Outreach Team Offers Free Screenings Around the Region

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The Dorchester Shore Community Outreach Team (SCOT) will offer free screenings for blood pressure and diabetes in seven Dorchester County locations and one Caroline County location during the month of August. SCOT is a community-based health service offered by University of Maryland Shore Regional Health, a member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System.

The schedule for the health screenings is as follows: 

  • Monday, August 4, 1 to 5 p.m. at One Mission Cambridge, 614 Race St., Cambridge
  • Thursday, August 7, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Caroline/Dorchester County Fair, 8230 Detour Rd., Denton
  • Wednesday, August 13, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 303 S. Main St., Hurlock, and 4 to 6 p.m. at the Neck District Volunteer Fire Department, 954 Cooks Point Rd., Cambridge
  • Thursday, August 14, 3 to 5 p.m. at the Dorchester County Public Library, 303 Gay St., Cambridge
  • Thursday, August 21, 1 to 3 p.m. at the Empire Barbershop, 111 Maryland Ave., Cambridge, and 3 to 5:30 p.m. at the Farmers Market, Long Wharf, Cambridge

Combining expertise in nursing, social work and community health advocacy, SCOT members visit trusted community sites to provide health screenings and information to Dorchester County residents. They also provide home visits and safety assessments; case management for those with chronic illness; group wellness activities; and assistance with telehealth consults with providers; and assistance with completing health-related paperwork, including insurance forms and Advance Directives.

To schedule an appointment or visit, or to learn more about the Shore Community Outreach Team, call 443-225-7545 or email [email protected]. 

About University of Maryland Shore Regional Health 

A member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH) is the principal provider of comprehensive health care services for more than 170,000 residents of five counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore: Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot. UM SRH consists of approximately 2,000 team members, including more than 600 health care providers on the Medical Staff, who work with community partners to advance the values that are foundational to our mission: Compassion, Discovery, Excellence, Diversity and Integrity. For more information, visit https://www.umms.org/shore.

 

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high-quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. Partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore who educate the state’s future health care professionals, UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban and rural communities across the state of Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the System’s anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Cultivating Growth: UM Shore Regional Health Nurses Graduate from Statewide Leadership Institute

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Three nurse managers at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH), a member organization of University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), recently graduated from the Nurse Leadership Institute (NLI), a year-long professional development program hosted by the University of Maryland School of Nursing and funded by a state grant. The NLI was designed to build leadership capacity of Maryland nursing faculty and clinicians, facilitate partnerships for developing strategies that shape effective health care and prepare a nursing workforce to assume roles within systems.

Amy Bradley, BSN, manager, 3E and the Joint Center; Mary Collins, BSN, manager, 2E and Dialysis; and Shawne Davis, BSN, manager, Patient Care Services, completed the intensive program along with over 40 other nurse leaders across the state. 

Quotes from participants:

  • “It was reinvigorating,” said Collins, who has served on the UM SRH nursing team for nearly two decades. “When you’ve been doing your job for a long time, it’s easy to think, ‘we’ve got this’—but this program helps you realize there’s always room to grow. This was about learning how to do what we do – better.”
  • “The NLI forces you to take a hard look at your strengths and areas of growth,” said Bradley. “It was about self-awareness as much as it was about skill-building.” We’re not just connecting within our organization—the NLI brings together nurse leaders from across Maryland,” said Davis. “That perspective is powerful.”

The program included a one-on-one mentorship, monthly virtual leadership meetings and three in-person sessions, including a two-day intensive leadership training. Participants also completed a collaborative project addressing a specific health care issue or topic.

Danielle Wilson, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, UM SRH, championed the program internally and encouraged her managers to apply.

“Investing in nursing leadership is investing in patient care,” said Wilson. “Nurse leaders have the opportunity and responsibility to continue to innovate and advance standards of care. We are grateful that three of our nurse managers had the opportunity to engage in this transformative initiative.”

For more information on the Nurse Leadership Institute, visit umshoreregional.org/nli.

 

 

About University of Maryland Shore Regional Health 

A member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH) is the principal provider of comprehensive health care services for more than 170,000 residents of five counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore: Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot. UM SRH consists of approximately 2,000 team members, including more than 600 health care providers on the Medical Staff, who work with community partners to advance the values that are foundational to our mission: Compassion, Discovery, Excellence, Diversity and Integrity. For more information, visit https://www.umms.org/shore.

 

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. Partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore who educate the state’s future health care professionals, UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban and rural communities across the state of Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the System’s anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Rowan Michael, MD, Joins the Orthopedic Center

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The Orthopedic Center has welcomed orthopedic surgeon Rowan Michael, MD, to its provider team. The Orthopedic Center is an affiliate medical practice of University of Maryland Shore Regional Health, a member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System. 

Dr. Michael is board certified in orthopedic surgery, with a subspecialty certification in hand surgery, by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.

He earned his Doctor of Medicine from Rutgers’ Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and his Bachelor of Science from the University of Delaware in Newark, Delaware. He completed a hand and upper extremity fellowship at University of Florida – Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida and his residency at Dartmouth Orthopaedic Surgery in Lebanon, New Hampshire.

Dr. Michael has earned numerous accolades, including ‘Top Doc’ recognition from Main Line Today and the prestigious Bruce Fisher Award, presented to the top two graduating medical students in each class.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Michael to our practice starting July 1,” said Thomas Stauch, MD, principal provider at the Orthopedic Center. “His specialized expertise in hand and upper extremity conditions will be a tremendous asset to our community.”

To make an appointment with Dr. Michael, call The Orthopedic Center at 410-820-8226.

About University of Maryland Shore Regional Health 

A member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH) is the principal provider of comprehensive health care services for more than 170,000 residents of five counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore: Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot. UM SRH consists of approximately 2,000 team members, including more than 600 health care providers on the Medical Staff, who work with community partners to advance the values that are foundational to our mission: Compassion, Discovery, Excellence, Diversity and Integrity. For more information, visit https://www.umms.org/shore.

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. Partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore who educate the state’s future health care professionals, UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban and rural communities across the state of Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the System’s anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

UM Shore Regional Health Receives $25 Million Gift For New UM Shore Regional Medical Center

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At a time when rural hospitals are closing, donation helps to secure the future of health care on Maryland’s Eastern Shore

Inspired by a desire to ensure unparalleled health care in the region for generations to come, an Eastern Shore resident has made a $25 million gift to University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH), a member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), toward construction of the new UM Shore Regional Medical Center (RMC) in Easton. The gift, from a supporter born over 90 years ago at the former Memorial Hospital at Easton who wishes to remain anonymous, marks the largest private donation in the history of UM SRH and one of the largest individual philanthropic donations ever for UMMS.

This gift helps launch UM SRH’s $100 million comprehensive fundraising campaign for the new hospital, which will allow the organization to improve clinical programs and advance teaching initiatives across the five-county region served by UM SRH. For more information about UM SRH’s comprehensive campaign, please visit: umshoreregional.org/supportRMC

“This extraordinary gift will make an incredible impact for health care on the Eastern Shore,” said Mohan Suntha, MD, MBA, President and CEO of UMMS. “It reflects a deep commitment to the well-being of our communities and is transformative — advancing our campaign to build a state-of-the-art medical center that delivers compassionate, high-quality care for generations to come. We are profoundly grateful for this visionary investment in the future of medicine and in the health of every family we serve.” 

Over the last decade, UM SRH and UMMS have worked with community partners to develop an integrated clinical service delivery plan that reimagines and improves health care delivery across the Mid-Shore region, making investments in key projects such as the rural hospital designation in Chestertown, the emergency center in Queenstown, the freestanding medical facility in Cambridge, several medical pavilions and three urgent care centers across the shore. 

“The new regional medical center is the cornerstone of this long-term plan, setting a national standard for rural health care by combining cutting-edge technology, academic research, specialty centers of excellence, and a modern, patient-centered design to deliver unparalleled care,” said Ken Kozel, President of UM SRH.

“At a time when rural hospitals are in crisis, with over 200 closing their doors in the past two decades and one-third of the rural hospitals in the country at risk of closing, we aren’t just transforming health care, we are expanding and building a better state of care for the region’s future,” Kozel added.

Designed as a hub for integrated rural health services, the regional medical center will serve as an anchor for a sustainable model of care while also serving as an economic engine for the Mid-Shore. UM SRH and UMMS are partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine, as well as with other University of Maryland, Baltimore clinical professional schools (Nursing, Dentistry and Pharmacy) and local clinical programs, providing scholarships and incentives to attract health care providers and address the shortage in rural areas. 

“As part of our ongoing commitment to community and purpose, we are building a culture where generosity leads the way — one where giving isn’t just encouraged but embedded in who we are and how we operate,” said Rebecca Bair, Vice President of Philanthropy, UM SRH. “From leadership to frontline staff, we believe every act of service and support has the power to spark lasting change. Through volunteer initiatives, philanthropic partnerships and opportunities for individual giving, we are creating an environment where generosity is both lived and celebrated, driving a once-in-a-generation visionary endeavor.”

The public can follow construction progress and sign up to receive the quarterly project newsletter at umshoreregional.org/rmc. 

About University of Maryland Shore Regional Health 

A member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH) is the principal provider of comprehensive health care services for more than 170,000 residents of five counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore: Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot. UM SRH consists of approximately 2,000 team members, including more than 600 health care providers on the Medical Staff, who work with community partners to advance the values that are foundational to our mission: Compassion, Discovery, Excellence, Diversity and Integrity. For more information, visit https://www.umms.org/shore.

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high-quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. Partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore who educate the state’s future health care professionals, UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban and rural communities across the state of Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the System’s anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Route 662 Near Site of New University of Maryland Shore Regional Medical Center Reopened to Traffic

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University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH), a member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System, and key partners celebrated the reopening of Maryland Route 662 between Airport Road and Hiners Lane with a ribbon cutting ceremony today. 

This section of Route 662 had been closed and traffic detoured to Route 50 since last September to facilitate construction work related to the new University of Maryland Shore Regional Medical Center, now being built on Longwoods Road. Route 662 is now open to traffic, with base pavement, temporary striping and temporary signage in place to ensure safe travel. Final paving, striping and signage are delayed until later in the hospital construction process, when potential wear and tear caused by construction vehicles will no longer be a concern.

“We are delighted to reopen Route 662 on schedule, before the summer traffic is in full swing,” said Ken Kozel, President, UM SRH. “We had projected a May reopening, and thanks to the diligence of our partners Whiting Turner/Mahogany and David A. Bramble, Inc., it was accomplished despite more than 60 days lost due to bad weather.”

The development and completion of the core and shell drawings over the last several months for the new regional medical center facilitated the approval and issuance of the building permit for this phase of construction to start on schedule. “The achievement of this milestone is a monumental feat that should be celebrated as it took hard work and close collaboration among the UM SRH Project Team, the Town of Easton, Talbot County and Easton Utilities”, said Lu Ann Brady, Sr. Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of UM SRH. “Weather permitting, digging and pouring foundations will begin this week and vertical construction will follow. Over the next 12 months our community will be able to watch the six-story outer shell of the facility go up.” 

The final fit-out drawings (plans for the inside of the building including all equipment, infrastructure such as electrical, plumbing and IT, walls, flooring and furnishings) were completed and delivered to the town for approval this week. These plans will also allow for approximately 30 additional bids to be published and awarded for the remaining materials needed for the building. It is anticipated that by mid-June, bids covering 99 percent of the rest of the project will be in hand.

“The goal to build a state-of-the-art regional facility for our mid-shore community has been a long time coming – and will continue to require our unwavering dedication,” said Kozel. “Stopping along the way to celebrate our successes is essential and I am grateful for the hard work and dedication of our entire UM SRH team and community partners.”

About University of Maryland Shore Regional Health 

A member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH) is the principal provider of comprehensive health care services for more than 170,000 residents of five counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore: Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot. UM SRH consists of approximately 2,000 team members, including more than 600 health care providers on the Medical Staff, who work with community partners to advance the values that are foundational to our mission. For more information, visit https://www.umms.org/shore.

 

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. Partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore who educate the state’s future health care professionals, UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban and rural communities across the state of Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the System’s anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Mid-Shore Community Foundation Makes $3.8 Million Gift to New UM Shore Regional Medical Center

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Leaders of Mid Shore Community Foundation and UM Shore Regional Health met recently to celebrate the MSCF’s $3.8 million gift. Pictured left to right:  Rebecca Bair, Vice President, Philanthropy, UM Shore Regional Health; Ken Kozel, President and CEO, UM Shore Regional Health; Alice Ryan, Vice Chair, Board of Directors, MSCF; Buck Duncan, President, MSCF; Moorhead Vermilye, Chair, Board of Directors, MSCF; Charles Capute, Chairman, Board of Trustees, UM Memorial Hospital Foundation and Robbin Hill, Chief Program Officer, MSCF.

Mid-Shore Community Foundation (MSCF) in Easton, Maryland has committed $3.8 million to University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH), a member organization of the University of Maryland Medical System, toward construction of the new UM Shore Regional Medical Center. 

“The mission of Mid-Shore Community Foundation to enhance the quality of life for individuals throughout the mid-shore region ties closely with Shore Regional Health’s goal to provide state-of-the-art health care,” said Buck Duncan, President, MSCF. “We are pleased to make this gift to advance health care in the region.”

Construction of the new medical center, located at 10000 Longwoods Road in Easton, Maryland, is scheduled for completion in summer 2028.

“It’s all about advancing health care in our communities now and for generations to come,” said Rebecca Bair, Vice President of Philanthropy, UM SRH. “We are so grateful for the leadership level support from the Mid-Shore Community Foundation.” 

“We are deeply grateful to the Mid-Shore Community Foundation for this transformative gift,” added Ken Kozel, UM SRH President and CEO. “The foundation’s generosity will have a lasting impact on community health care in the region.”

About University of Maryland Shore Regional Medical Center 

The new Shore Regional Medical Center will provide greater access to hospital services for residents of Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot counties. The state-of-the-art facility is designed to advance health care quality and access on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. In partnership with the University of Maryland Medical System, it will serve as a vital asset to recruit and retain physicians, advanced practice professionals and the clinical and support staff needed to provide high quality, clinically advanced medical care to the region.

Site: 230 acres

Hospital Details:

  • Main Tower: 6 levels; 325,294 square feet Acute-Care
  • Adjacent medical office and outpatient services building:
  • 60,000 square feet
  • Licensed Beds: 122 (private rooms)
  • ED Treatment Bays: 27
  • Adult Observation / Short Stay: 25
  • Operating Rooms: 7
  • Helipad
  • Estimated Total Cost: $540 million

Replaces: University of Maryland Shore Medical Center on South Washington Street in Easton, Md.

Core Programs & Specialty Centers:

  • Acute Rehabilitation Center
  • Behavioral Health
  • Birthing Center
  • Cardiac Intervention Center
  • Critical Care Medicine
  • Emergency Services
  • Neurosciences
  • Orthopedics
  • Vascular Services
  • Women’s Services

Project Partners: 

  • Covalus – Project Management
  • HKS – Architect
  • Whiting-Turner I Mahogany, Inc – Construction Manager

 

The public can follow construction progress at umshoreregional.org/rmc. For information about making a gift, contact Rebecca at 667-343-5509 or [email protected].

About University of Maryland Shore Regional Health 

A member organization of th(e University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), University of Maryland Shore Regional Health (UM SRH) is the principal provider of comprehensive health care services for more than 170,000 residents of five counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore: Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot. UM SRH consists of approximately 2,000 team members, including more than 600 health care providers on the Medical Staff, who work with community partners to advance the values that are foundational to our mission: Compassion, Discovery, Excellence, Diversity and Integrity. For more information, visit https://www.umms.org/shore.

 

About the University of Maryland Medical System

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is an academic private health system, focused on delivering compassionate, high quality care and putting discovery and innovation into practice at the bedside. Partnering with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and University of Maryland, Baltimore who educate the state’s future health care professionals, UMMS is an integrated network of care, delivering 25 percent of all hospital care in urban, suburban and rural communities across the state of Maryland. UMMS puts academic medicine within reach through primary and specialty care delivered at 11 hospitals, including the flagship University of Maryland Medical Center, the System’s anchor institution in downtown Baltimore, as well as through a network of University of Maryland Urgent Care centers and more than 150 other locations in 13 counties. For more information, visit www.umms.org.

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