LA PLATA, Md. (April 3, 2009)—County Commissioner Edith J. Patterson (District 2) and Commissioner President Wayne Cooper recently met with over 75 Nanjemoy area residents to discuss their immediate and long-term medical needs Wednesday, April 1.
Held at the Nanjemoy Community Center, the information gathering session included representatives from Greater Baden Medical Services, the Charles County Health Department, Health Partners, Inc., the Department of Social Services, the Department of Community Services and Priority Partners—John Hopkins. All agencies gave brief overviews regarding affordable health services they can provide to people living in the Nanjemoy area.
Other featured speakers included Betsy Bossart, District Director for U.S. Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-Maryland), and Col. Mary R. Boyd (U.S.A.F.), (Retired), former director of Nursing at the Malcolm Grow Medical Center, Andrews Air Force Base, who served as the facilitator.
Commissioner Patterson said the meeting was held to specifically get some direction from the citizens regarding their immediate and long-term health needs. “This open dialogue, gives us a better understanding of what collectively needs to be done by health providers, county government and the citizens,” noted Patterson.
Residents expressed concerns that included improvements in public transportation services, assistance in scheduling medical appointments and educational materials regarding affordable payment scales.
Scheduled to close in June of 2009, the Greater Baden Medical Services Clinic received a reprieve last week when given the news that $270,000 in federal funding was headed its way to keep the doors open for another two years. This money is part of the stimulus package proposed by the Obama administration, and recently passed by Congress.
“I think it's great that these health providers are eager to work with the residents,” said President Cooper. “ We have to plan beyond the two-year extension to ensure that health services continue in the Nanjemoy area,” he added.
Source: Charles County County Commissioners