BWMC Marks 60-Year Anniversary of Operations
**Celebrating Six Decades of Care: A Look Back at University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center**
For six decades, the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center (UM BWMC) has been a beacon of hope and healing for the residents of Anne Arundel County. Founded as North Arundel Hospital on July 4, 1965, the medical center began with humble beginnings, boasting four patient care areas and a three-bed emergency department.
Over the years, UM BWMC has grown exponentially, transforming into a 310-bed facility that serves nearly 18,000 inpatients and over 264,000 outpatient visits annually. This expansion has been marked by the addition of critical care capacity, the construction of an eight-story patient care tower, and the establishment of centers focused on cancer, women’s health, and outpatient care.
In 2000, UM BWMC joined the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS), a move that has connected patients in Anne Arundel County to advanced clinical services, academic medicine, and clinical trials. This affiliation has been instrumental in bringing high-quality care to the community for the past 25 years.
UM BWMC's commitment to community service has been a cornerstone of its mission. The hospital has provided care for complex conditions such as cancer, cardiac disease, and stroke, significantly impacting the lives of individuals and families in the area. Furthermore, UM BWMC has integrated new technologies to improve health outcomes, enhancing its ability to provide expert care to residents in Anne Arundel County and beyond.
Stephanie DiRubbo, a quality improvement manager at UM BWMC, began her career at the hospital as a teenager and considers it her community. This sentiment is shared by Kathy McCollum, President of UM BWMC, who stated that the hospital has been committed to delivering high-quality, accessible care for 60 years.
Recently, UM BWMC appointed a new Vice President of Strategy, and the hospital is planning to expand mental health treatment with a $2M grant from Schuh. Additionally, UM BWMC offers workforce development opportunities, including internships, volunteer opportunities, and career pathway programs in nursing and allied health.
UM BWMC has received numerous awards for clinical excellence and patient safety, reflecting its dedication to delivering accessible, high-quality care while embracing innovation and strengthening partnerships within the community. For more information about UM BWMC's history, services, and career opportunities, visit [umbwmc.org/alwayscaring](http://umbwmc.org/alwayscaring).
During this six-decade journey of care, University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center (UM BWMC) has made strides in health and wellness, integrating new technologies to improve health outcomes and provide expert care. This commitment to innovation includes research and clinical trials in various fields, such as cancer care and women's health, extending their reach beyond Anne Arundel County.
