Bon Secours Baltimore Health System a Foster G. McGaw Prize Finalist

Marriottsville, Maryland, January 25, 2009 – Bon Secours Baltimore Health System, Baltimore, Maryland, part of Bon Secours Health System, was named one of three finalists for the prestigious Foster G. McGaw Prize for Excellence in Community Service and receives a $10,000 award. Bon Secours Baltimore was recognized for ensuring access to and delivery of quality health care, life skills education and affordable housing in one of the poorest areas of Baltimore.

The Foster G. McGaw Prize, first awarded in 1986, recognizes health care organizations that demonstrate commitment to community service through a range of programs that demonstrate a passion and continuous commitment to making communities healthier and more vital. The prize inspires hospitals, health systems and communities to assess and implement programs that improve their communities. The Foster G. McGaw Prize is sponsored by the American Hospital Association (AHA), The Baxter International Foundation and the Cardinal Health Foundation.

The Foster G. McGaw Prize winner is St. Mary’s Health System, Lewiston, Maine. The other finalists are Denver Health, Denver, Colorado, and ThedaCare, Appleton, Wisconsin.

"The Foster G. McGaw Prize recognizes health care organizations that serve as role models for improving the health and well-being of the people in their communities. This year's winner and finalists exemplify what it takes to meet the unique needs of the diverse communities they serve," said Susan Manilow, chair of the Foster G. McGaw Prize Committee. "Through strong leadership, innovative collaboration and partnerships, and unwavering commitment, these organizations provide a wide array of programs and services that positively impact people's lives."

Bon Secours Health System, Inc. based in Marriottsville, Maryland, is a $2.6 billion dollar not-for-profit Catholic health system that owns, manages or joint ventures 18 acute care, 5 long term care, 5 assisted living and independent living and other facilities, primarily on the East Coast. Bon Secours Health System consists of more than 16,000 caregivers helping people in communities in eight states. Its vision is to be recognized for its leadership in justice, transforming the communities in which it serves and works into places of health and hope, and being a prophetic voice for systemic U.S. health reform and a more humane world.