Shaw named executive director of Calvert Healthcare Solutions
Dr. Rogers elected president of Board of Directors

Prince Frederick, MD (July 31, 2009) Michael Shaw of Lusby has been named executive director of Calvert Healthcare Solutions (CHS). Since 2001, it has logged over 1,000 patient visits for primary health care.

“I feel that my healthcare experience and ties to the community will help me grow Calvert Healthcare Solutions to better serve those who need our help,” said Shaw. The longtime county resident has been employed at Calvert Memorial Hospital since 1997 and was named Employee of the Year in 2007.

 At the organization’s annual meeting last month, Dr. David Rogers, Calvert County Health Officer, was elected president of the all-volunteer governing board. He replaces Jon Frank who completed three terms at the helm. Also elected were Dr. Robert Schlager, vice president, CMH President and CEO James Xinis, treasurer and Mary Louise Wisniewski, secretary.

 The eight-year-old group is a unique partnership that includes the hospital, local physicians, social services, the health department and the chamber of commerce. It was formed through the vision of local physician Dr. Raymon Noble and start-up funding by the Calvert County Kiwanis Club.

 “The value of physician support cannot be stressed enough,” said Shaw. “They are the foundation of our program. Their willingness to see our patients is really what makes Calvert Healthcare Solutions work.” Currently, 11 local primary practices participate in CHS.  Access to limited specialty care is also available.

 As the economy worsens and more people lose their health insurance, the number of people who skip doctor visits or put off important tests increases, said Shaw. “Our big push this year,” he said, “is to get as many people as possible signed up so they have access to primary care.”

 Since 2007, Calvert Healthcare Solutions has enrolled 229 new clients, provided 400 physician visits, helped clients get 1,216 discounted prescriptions totaling $15,000 and performed 480 laboratory studies and 144 radiological procedures valued at $28,000.

 Looking forward, Shaw said, his goal is to develop the tools that will improve the quality of care that is delivered. “For instance, if we consolidate our data into a more reliable system,” he said, “we will be able to identify trends that will tell us if the care patients are receiving is effective … that they’re getting better.”

 Another focus, he said, is to improve outreach to participants. “We’re putting the word out through our health ministry network and the local community agencies they’re already using and are familiar with.”

 “We also want to emphasize wellness and preventive education,” he said, “in order to increase early intervention before their condition becomes chronic.”

 Funding is an ongoing priority, as well. “We’re actively pursuing other grant funding sources,” he said, “but there is also a need for corporate and private donations.” Tax-deductible contributions can be sent to: Calvert Healthcare Solutions, PO Box 308 , Prince Frederick, MD 20678.  For more information, contact CHS at 443-550-6927.