By Ashley Daniels
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

On September 29, Erickson Health® hosted an official ceremonial opening of the new Erickson Health Medical Center in Howard County. This center is Erickson’s first off-site facility and expands the company’s comprehensive health care services for retirees.

The new health practice, geared toward adults 65 and older covered by Medicare, opened to the community on August 4. Within two weeks of its opening, the medical center saw more than 30 Howard County seniors.

Rebecca Elon, M.D.— named the American Geriatrics Society’s Clinician of the Year in 2007—will direct the one-physician Howard County practice, which may eventually employ five to ten doctors. Based on the success of this first center, Erickson could open more practices in Maryland and nationwide.

Community partnerships
Erickson’s President of Developing Enterprises Rick Grindrod kicked off the ceremony by welcoming the Erickson staff, business partners, and local politicians in attendance. He thanked the owners and administrators of Lorien Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Howard County General Hospital, Johns Hopkins, and Nighttime Pediatrics Care Center, which were all represented in the crowd.

Grindrod also introduced Howard County Executive Ken Ulman, who commented on the need for additional resources for local seniors. “When it comes to senior-related health issues, I can’t think of a better partnership than with Erickson Retirement Communities,” he said.

Access granted
Erickson’s Chief Medical Officer Matt Narrett added, “Access to health care for seniors is becoming more and more limited. Today we are reversing that trend by improving access for the seniors of Howard County. We want to be national leaders in the delivery of health care for seniors.”