System Overview

In an effort to effectively manage local healthcare resources, Memorial Hospital and Medical Center of Cumberland and Braddock Hospital (formerly Sacred Heart Hospital) joined together in April 1996 to form the Western Maryland Health System (WMHS). This new organization oversees the operation of both hospitals and related entities and strives to enhance patient care while reducing healthcare costs. Improving the overall health of the community is another important goal of WMHS.

The Western Maryland Health System offers a comprehensive range of general and specialty services for medical, surgical, pediatric, and obstetrical patients. Sophisticated diagnostic testing services are provided at each campus, as well as at off-site, outpatient diagnostic centers. An extensive range of physician specialties is available, with over 200 physicians practicing in the community.

In an effort to further enhance health care services, WMHS developed 8 Specialty Centers. The Memorial Campus is the site for Specialty Centers for Children’s and Adolescents’ Health, Orthopedics and Joint Reconstruction, Trauma Services, and Women’s Health. Specialty Centers on the Braddock Campus include Behavioral Health, Cardiac Services, Oncology Services, and Outpatient Services.

Emergency services are provided at both campuses, with Memorial Hospital serving as the designated Areawide Trauma Center in the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS). Critical care services, as well as surgical services, are available at both facilities. A 21-bed comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation unit at Memorial complements the trauma program.

The Heart Institute at WMHS opened in November 2000 on the Braddock Campus and provides a comprehensive range of cardiac diagnostic and treatment services, including open-heart surgery and interventional cardiology (angioplasty).

A full range of cancer services is available through the WMHS Regional Cancer Center, which is located on the Braddock Campus and accredited by the American College of Surgeons. Included in the WMHS program are diagnostic testing; a wide array of treatment services, including radiation oncology; hospice services, and many patient support services.

Long-term care services are provided through the Frostburg Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, an 88-bed nursing home.

Improving the community’s overall health is an important aspect of WMHS. Health promotion activities include health screenings, classes on adopting healthy lifestyles, and exercise programs. Special activities for children and senior citizens, as well as other at-risk populations, are offered throughout the year.

WMHS is now building a new state-of-the-art hospital on Willowbrook Road in Cumberland that will combine all services in one location when it opens in 2009.