GRMC named a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital for eighth year in a row by The Chartis Center for Rural Health
Posted 3/23/26
OAKLAND, M.D. – Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) has been recognized as a 2026 Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital by The Chartis Center for Rural Health for the eighth consecutive year. The Top 100 awards program celebrates outstanding performance annually among the nation’s rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®. GRMC is one of only three Maryland hospitals to earn a spot on the list.
“This is a tremendous honor for Garrett Regional Medical Center to once again be recognized as a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital for the eighth year in a row,” said Mark Boucot, president and CEO of GRMC and Potomac Valley Hospital. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our physicians, nurses, and staff who work tirelessly every day to provide high-quality care to our community. Their commitment to excellence and patient safety continues to make a meaningful difference for the patients and families we serve.”
“The delivery of care within rural communities is perhaps more complex today than at any point in recent memory. This year’s Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals have emerged as true leaders – committed to their mission through a powerful combination of resilience, dedication and innovation,” said Michael Topchik, Executive Director of The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “We’re delighted to recognize this year’s winners and celebrate their Top 100 status.”
Now in its 16th year, the INDEX is the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. Leveraging publicly available data, the INDEX is utilized nationwide by rural hospitals, health systems with rural affiliates, hospital associations, and state offices of rural health to measure and monitor performance across a variety of areas impacting hospital operations, quality, patient perspective and finance.
As a full member of the WVU Health System, GRMC continues to grow the specialty services available to the 46,000 people in GRMC’s service area, which includes parts of eight counties across Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. GRMC provides behavioral health, cancer care and infusion, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, gynecology, heart and vascular care, integrative pain management, nephrology and urology, orthopaedics, and podiatry services, among others.
Excellent patient outcomes play a key role in the recognition GRMC achieves. In 2025, GRMC had the lowest readmission rate in the state of Maryland.
GRMC is committed to patient safety initiatives focused on improving communication and eliminating hospital-acquired infections, blood clots, serious medication errors, and preventable harm events.
Between January 1 and December 31, 2025, Garrett Regional Medical Center demonstrated outstanding patient safety outcomes, reporting zero preventable harm events, venous thrombosis cases, and serious medication errors. The hospital also maintained extremely low infection rates, with hospital-acquired infections at just 0.08% and surgical site infections at 0.04%—far surpassing national benchmarks of 1.0% and 1.57%, respectively.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.
Be Prepared: Passport & ID Requirements Are Becoming More Important
Posted 3/19/26
Recent discussions at the federal level around voter identification requirements, along with increasingly strict international travel policies, are highlighting the importance of having proper, up-to-date identification.
Currently, only about half of Americans have a passport, and processing through the U.S. Department of State can take several weeks—often 6–8 weeks or more when mailing and during peak demand.
For those planning travel, preparing documentation, or simply wanting to be ready if requirements change, it’s worth planning ahead rather than waiting until timelines tighten.
One common issue that can delay applications is something many people overlook: the photo. Passport and visa applications have strict requirements, and incorrect photos are one of the most frequent reasons for delays or rejections.
At Smoke n Mirrors Photography, we provide passport and visa-compliant photography designed to meet both U.S. and international standards. We’ve even had clients come to us after their photos were rejected, needing a quick turnaround to keep their travel plans on track.
If you’re local to the Deep Creek Lake and Garrett County area, we’re happy to help. For those outside the area, the Professional Photographers of America offers a “Find a Photographer” directory to locate qualified professionals nationwide.
Being prepared now can help avoid delays later.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit: www.smokenphoto.com/Passports
Children’s Medical Group of Cumberland joins WVU Medicine
Posted 3/16/26
CUMBERLAND, Md. – Children’s Medical Group of Cumberland, a trusted pediatric practice serving families in the Cumberland community for decades, has joined WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s, in partnership with Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) and Potomac Valley Hospital (PVH). This collaboration strengthens access to high-quality pediatric care for children and families throughout the region.
By becoming part of the WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s network, patients of Children’s Medical Group of Cumberland will benefit from expanded resources, enhanced clinical coordination, and closer connections to specialized pediatric services offered through WVU Medicine. Management by Garrett Regional Medical Center will ensure continuity of care, strong operational support, and a continued local focus on meeting community needs.
“This partnership represents an important step forward for pediatric care in our region,” said Mark Boucot, president and CEO of Garrett Regional Medical Center and Potomac Valley Hospital. “Families will continue to receive the compassionate, personalized care they expect from Children’s Medical Group of Cumberland, while also gaining access to the depth of expertise and support available through WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s, Garrett Regional Medical Center, and Potomac Valley Hospital.”
Children’s Medical Group of Cumberland will continue to serve patients at its Cumberland location with the same providers and staff families know and trust. The clinical team includes physicians Soriayah Zaghab-Mathews, M.D., Debra B. Hurtt, M.D., Michael A. Levitas, M.D., Susan M. Nuber, M.D., Rodney Williams, M.D., in addition to Randall A. Stroup, P.A.-C., and Nikkole Reams, A.P.R.N., C.R.N.P.
The transition is focused on maintaining seamless care while enhancing services, care coordination, and access to advanced pediatric resources.
“For decades, our mission has been to provide compassionate, comprehensive pediatric care close to home,” said Michael Levitas, MD, of Children’s Medical Group of Cumberland. “Becoming part of WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s allows us to build on that foundation by connecting our patients to an even broader network of pediatric expertise and resources, while continuing to care for families right here in Cumberland, for many years into the future.”
Current patients and families have already been notified of the transition.
For more information about Children’s Medical Group of Cumberland or to schedule an appointment, call 301-724-7616.
Garrett Regional Medical Center to offer “Living Well” Self-Management Programs for Chronic Conditions and Chronic Pain
Posted 3/9/26
OAKLAND, M.D. –Garrett Regional Medical Center’s care management department is launching two new six-week self-management programs designed to help individuals take control of their health and improve their quality of life: Living Well with Chronic Conditions and Living Well with Chronic Pain.
These evidence-based workshops are created for individuals living with ongoing health issues and for those who experience persistent pain. The programs provide practical tools and strategies to better manage symptoms, communicate effectively with healthcare providers, and maintain an active, fulfilling lifestyle.
Living Well with Chronic Conditions will begin on April 8 and will be held on Wednesdays from 2–4 p.m.
Living Well with Chronic Pain will begin on April 17 and will be held on Fridays from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Each workshop meets once a week for six weeks and is led by trained facilitators in a supportive group setting. Participants will learn techniques for managing fatigue, stress, anxiety, pain, and other symptoms; improving nutrition and physical activity; setting realistic goals; and building confidence to handle daily challenges associated with chronic health issues.
The programs are open to adults living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, lung disease, and other long-term health concerns, as well as individuals dealing specifically with chronic pain. Caregivers and family members are also encouraged to attend.
By participating in these interactive workshops, attendees gain practical skills, peer support, and proven strategies to enhance their overall well-being and independence.
Space is limited. To register, please call 301-533-4554.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.
First United Bank & Trust announces Kirsten Deering as Engagement Manager
Posted 3/5/26
Denise Phelps, Director of Leadership and Engagement at First United Bank & Trust, is proud to announce the appointment of Kirsten Deering as Engagement Manager.
In her new role, Deering will focus on helping associates feel connected and engaged with First UnitedBank & Trust by using the bank’s community-minded approach and strong company values. She will work to build and maintain positive, mutually beneficial relationships across the organization and in our communities, helping associates and community members feel supported and involved. In this role, she will lead by example, showcasing teamwork, responsibility, enthusiasm for serving customers, clear communication, and a mindset that’s focused on finding solutions.
Deering brings more than 20 years of experience in community and retail banking, deposit growth, client engagement, and financial services. She previously served as a Deposit Relationship Manager for First United, where she demonstrated a proven ability to build trusted relationships, grow fee income, and represent financial institutions through community involvement and leadership. She is known for her strong communication skills, operational expertise, and commitment to customer and community service.
“We are thrilled to have Kirsten step into this role,” said Denise Phelps. “Her extensive experience and passion for building meaningful connections will strengthen our engagement strategies and reinforce our commitment to both associates, customers and our communities.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Deering is deeply committed to community leadership and service. She currently serves as a Board Member for Heartly House and is a participant in Leadership Frederick County’s Class of 2026. She studied Business Management at Frederick Community College.
Deering will be located at the Riverside Community Office in Frederick, MD, and can be reached at kdeering@mybank.com or 301-682-8902.
Member of FDIC. First United Corporation operates one full-service commercial bank, First United Bank & Trust. The Bank has a network of community offices in Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Frederick counties in Maryland, as well as Mineral, Berkeley, and Monongalia counties in West Virginia. First United’s website can be located at MyBank.com. As of 9/30/2025, the corporation posted assets of $2 billion.
Blackthorne Cellars Wins Three Medals at North America’s Largest Wine Competition
Posted 2/27/26
Oakland, MD — Blackthorne Cellars, a farm winery nestled among the towering pines and mountain views of Deep Creek Lake, has earned national recognition for the quality of its Maryland-grown wines. The winery brought home three medals from the 2026 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the largest competition of North American wines in the world.
The competition, held annually in Cloverdale, California, drew more than 5,500 wine entries from over 1,100 wineries across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. A panel of 52 professional judges—including sommeliers, winemakers, wine educators, and industry journalists—evaluated each entry through blind tastings across 16 judging panels.
Blackthorne Cellars’ award-winning wines include:
Gold Medal — Boxer (Cabernet Franc)
Gold Medal — Cove (Rosé)
Silver Medal — Creek (Sauvignon Blanc)
Located at 2781 Sand Flat Road in Oakland, less than a mile from Deep Creek Lake, Blackthorne Cellars has quickly become a destination for wine lovers visiting Western Maryland. The winery’s picturesque property features covered outdoor seating areas, fire pits, and a grand indoor fireplace, making it a year-round gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Visitors can taste the award-winning wines and explore the full Blackthorne Cellars lineup seven days a week.
Rebecca Crowell, DO, joins WVU Medicine Garrett Medical Group in Oakland
Posted 2/23/26
OAKLAND, Md. – WVU Medicine Garrett Medical Group is pleased to welcome Rebecca Crowell, DO, to its team of skilled healthcare providers at its Oakland location. Dr. Crowell brings a wealth of experience and a patient-centered approach to care, enhancing access to high-quality medical services for the Garrett County community.
Dr. Crowell is a board-certified family medicine physician dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients of all ages, with a special interest in women and children’s health. She emphasizes preventive care, chronic disease management, and personalized treatment plans to ensure optimal health outcomes for every patient.
“We are proud to welcome Dr. Rebecca Crowell to our team and the Garrett Medical Group family of primary care providers,” said Mark Boucot, president and CEO of Garrett Regional Medical Center and Potomac Valley Hospital. “Her background in family medicine and osteopathic care aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver high-quality, patient-focused healthcare close to home. Dr. Crowell is known for treating every patient like family, and that compassionate approach makes her an exceptional addition to our team.”
Prior to joining WVU Medicine Garrett Medical Group, Dr. Crowell practiced at Cornerstone Family Medicine and Wellspring Family Medicine.
Dr. Crowell earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from A.T. Still University–Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. She also completed a pre-doctoral fellowship in osteopathic manipulative medicine, further strengthening her hands-on, whole-person approach to patient care.
“I am excited to join WVU Medicine Garrett Medical Group and continue serving the families and individuals of this community,” said Dr. Crowell. “My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care and build lasting relationships with my patients.”
WVU Medicine Garrett Medical Group in Oakland offers a wide range of medical services, including routine check-ups, preventive care, acute illness and chronic disease management, and childhood and adult immunizations.
Primary care appointments with Dr. Crowell are now available. To schedule an appointment, contact 301-334-8171.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.
Oakland to Herrington Manor Pathways Feasibility Plan
Posted 2/19/26
Garrett County Government Senior Planner Siera Wigfield presented the proposed Oakland to Herrington Manor Pathways Feasibility Plan at the Garrett County Commissioners’ public meeting on February 17, 2026.
The plan outlines a recommended alignment for a single-track, natural surface trail connecting the Town of Oakland to Herrington Manor State Park.
Developed through technical analysis and public outreach, the feasibility plan identifies a preferred corridor based on safety, terrain, and environmental considerations. Adoption of the plan will allow Garrett County to pursue future grants, engineering, and design work as funding becomes available.
The plan is currently available for public review here (https://garrettcountymd.gov/Oakland2HMSP) and in printed form at several locations throughout the community, including:
• Ruth Enlow Library: 6 N 2nd St Ext, Oakland, MD 21550
• Oakland Town Hall: 15 S. Third Street Oakland, MD 21550
• Herrington Manor State Park Office: 222 Herrington Ln, Oakland, MD 21550
• Garrett County Courthouse: 317 E Alder St, Oakland, MD 21550
Garrett County encourages residents, landowners, and community members to review the plan and share feedback by March 2, 2026. Public comments can be submitted by email to pathways@garrettcountymd.gov.
Hometown Healthcare joins Garrett Regional Medical Center’s family of primary care clinics
Posted 2/17/26
CUMBERLAND, M.D. – Hometown Family Healthcare, a trusted provider of primary care services in the Cumberland community, is pleased to announce it has joined WVU Medicine Garrett Regional Medical Center’s (GRMC) growing family of primary care clinics. This partnership strengthens access to high-quality, coordinated care for individuals and families throughout the region.
Located at 11306 Bedford Road NE in Cumberland, Md., Hometown Family Healthcare will continue to serve patients with the same compassionate, patient-centered approach they have come to expect—now with the added resources, support, and clinical integration of Garrett Regional Medical Center. Formerly known as Hometown Family Healthcare, the practice will be referred to as Hometown Healthcare moving forward as part of the acquisition.
Since 2021, Hometown Family Healthcare has been owned and operated by Patricia Sheetz, DNP, FNP-BC, NRCME. She serves as the practice’s sole provider and delivers comprehensive primary care to patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including management of acute and chronic illnesses, school and employment physicals, annual wellness exams, diagnostic testing, and ongoing preventive care.
As an advanced practice professional, Sheetz also serves as a preceptor and mentor for nurse practitioner and physician assistant students, including students from nearby Frostburg State University and Allegany High School. She is a member of the American Nurses Association, Maryland Nurses Association, and the National Kidney Foundation, and is an alumni member of the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA).
“We are excited to welcome Hometown Healthcare and Patricia Sheetz to the GRMC family,” said Mark Boucot, president and CEO of Garrett Regional Medical Center. “Her dedication to personalized, community-based care aligns perfectly with our mission to improve the health and well-being of the people we serve.”
As part of GRMC’s family of primary care clinics, Hometown Healthcare will play an important role in improving continuity of care, supporting preventive health services, and connecting patients with specialty and hospital-based care when needed.
Hometown Healthcare is accepting new patients. To call or schedule an appointment, please contact 301-338-8680.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.
GRMC welcomes urologist Joseph Caldwell, MD, to medical staff
Posted 2/9/26
OAKLAND, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) is pleased to welcome Joseph Caldwell, MD, to its medical staff as a urology provider. Dr. Caldwell brings advanced training, clinical expertise, and a strong research background to the community.
Dr. Caldwell earned his doctor of medicine from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in Lubbock, Texas. He also received his bachelor of science in cell and molecular biology from Texas Tech University.
He recently completed his urology residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi, within the department of surgery, division of urology. During his residency, Dr. Caldwell gained comprehensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of urologic conditions, while also contributing to innovative advancements in the field.
“We are pleased to welcome the addition of Dr. Caldwell to our medical staff,” stated Mark Boucot, president and CEO of GRMC and Potomac Valley Hospital. “Dr. Caldwell strengthens our ability to provide comprehensive, specialized urology services and ensures our patients receive exceptional care without having to travel far.”
Dr. Caldwell has an extensive background in urologic research. Most notably, in November 2023, he performed the first single-port robotic surgery in the state of Mississippi—a robotic pyeloplasty—at the University of Mississippi Medical Center for the department of surgery, division of urology. He has also participated in numerous poster presentations and oral presentations and has been featured in peer-reviewed publications related to urology.
A member of the American Urological Association, Dr. Caldwell is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered urologic care. He will be seeing patients at 888 Memorial Drive in Oakland. To schedule an appointment, please call 240-226-7710.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.
First United Bank & Trust proudly announces AJ Tasker as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Posted 2/6/26
Oakland, MD – Jason Rush, President and Chief Executive Officer of First United Bank & Trust, is pleased to announce the appointment of A.J. Tasker as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.
Tasker joined First United in 2008 as a Network Administrator and has steadily advanced through the organization, serving as IT Manager beginning in 2015 and most recently as Managing Director in 2023. In his previous role, he oversaw information technology, project management, disaster recovery and business continuity, information security, facilities and physical security, as well as loan and deposit operations. His broad operational expertise and collaborative leadership have played a key role in the bank’s continued innovation and growth.
Tasker holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and Information Systems from Fairmont State University. His professional credentials include Certified Information Systems Security Specialist (CISSP), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), and Project Management Professional (PMP). He is also a graduate of the Maryland Banking School and has been recognized as a Maryland Emerging Leaders “Champion.” In addition, Tasker serves on the Maryland Banking Association Solutions Board and the SHI Customer Advisory Board.
Beyond his technical and operational leadership, Tasker is widely respected for his strong community engagement and relationship-building skills.
“Typically, when we think of operations leaders, we don’t always associate them with community involvement and business development,” said Rush. “But A.J. is out in the community, building relationships, and representing First United exceptionally well. He aligns perfectly with our company values and culture.”
In his new role as Chief Operating Officer, Tasker will lead strategic initiatives focused on innovation and technology advancement, cybersecurity and fraud risk management, expansion of digital products and services, and improved operational efficiency through the use of data, artificial intelligence, and digital solutions. He will also continue to prioritize associate engagement, cross-functional collaboration, and clear communication across the organization.
“A.J. has a very deep understanding of these critical areas,” Rush added. “He is well positioned to continue leading First United Bank & Trust forward with confidence and vision.”
Member of FDIC. First United Corporation operates one full-service commercial bank, First United Bank & Trust. The Bank has a network of community offices in Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Frederick counties in Maryland, as well as Mineral, Berkeley, and Monongalia counties in West Virginia. First United’s website can be located at MyBank.com. As of 12/31/2025, the corporation posted assets of $2.1 billion.
GRMC celebrates graduates of nurse residency program
Posted 2/2/26
OAKLAND, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) proudly congratulates the latest cohort of nurses who have successfully completed the nurse residency program. The program is designed to support new graduate nurses as they transition from academic learning to professional nursing practice, ensuring they are well prepared to deliver high-quality, compassionate patient care.
Throughout the year-long program, nurse residents receive structured mentorship, opportunities to collaborate with peers, and guidance concerning communication, ethical/legal practices, wellness, professional growth, quality, and safety. This comprehensive approach helps participants build confidence, strengthen skills, and establish a solid foundation for long-term success in their nursing careers.
The following students have completed the program: Lauren Baker, Bryttney Lewis, Robert Pattison, Gracie Plessinger, and Morgan Winegardner.
“Watching these nurses grow from new graduates has been incredibly rewarding,” said Amanda Simmons, manager of clinical education and development at GRMC. “They bring energy, compassion, and a strong commitment to excellence, and we are proud to celebrate this important milestone with them.”
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.
Posted 1/26/26
OAKLAND, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) now offers patients robotic-assisted surgical procedures with the additional of a da Vinci surgical robot.
For patients, robotic-assisted surgery can mean smaller incisions, reduced damage to surrounding tissue, less postoperative pain, and a faster return to daily activities.
“Introducing robotic-assisted surgery at GRMC is another step in our mission to ensure the people of our region have access to exceptional care right here at home,” Mark Boucot, president and CEO of GRMC and Potomac Valley Hospital. “This technology enhances the capabilities of our surgical team and strengthens our commitment to meeting the healthcare needs of our community.”
General surgeon Milagros Lopez Gerena, MD, FACS, who recently completed the first robotic-assisted surgery at GRMC, shared her excitement about the new technology.
“At the end of the day, robotic surgery helps people heal with less pain and get back to their routines faster, Dr. Lopez said. “If we can make surgery a little easier on our patients and keep them close to home for care, that means everything to me.”
The technology is currently utilized in select general surgery procedures, including gallbladder removal, hernia repair, and colectomy.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.