A look into how UPMC leaders are actively engaging with the community, speaking on key initiatives and driving meaningful outreach.
Jan. 2026
Elizabeth Ritter, president, UPMC Harrisburg, UPMC Community Osteopathic, UPMC Carlisle, and UPMC West Shore, participated in a recent meeting with Governor Josh Shapiro, Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger, and local elected officials to discuss ongoing revitalization efforts in the City of Harrisburg.
Elizabeth underscored UPMC’s longstanding commitment to downtown Harrisburg and the broader capital region. She emphasized our continued partnership with city leadership and our dedication to serving the needs of the community.
The discussion brought together public officials, small businesses, and community partners, as each contributes valuable perspectives on the city’s future. As work moves through a newly established collaborative group, we will ensure that UPMC’s engagement will help support meaningful progress.
Jan. 2026
At the Susquehanna Regional EMS (SREMS) annual meeting, Pennsylvania State Representatives Joe Hamm, Jamie Flick, and Clint Owlett presented SREMS with a citation recognizing its selection as the 2025 Dick Ferneau Career EMS Service of the Year.
Leaders at the annual meeting noted that “Susquehanna Regional EMS is more than a vital link in central Pennsylvania’s healthcare system – it is a model for how modern EMS can blend clinical excellence, innovation, and community partnership into a cohesive mission.”
The meeting also included participation from Senator Yaw’s office, Rep. GT Thompson’s office, and local county commissioners.
1st photo: Patti Jackson, president of UPMC North Central Pa. and UPMC Williamsport; Pennsylvania State Rep. Jamie Flick, Tony Bixby, Director of Prehospital Services, UPMC North Central Pa.; Mark Trueman, senior manager of Prehospital Services, UPMC North Central Pa.
2nd photo: Representatives with the Susquehanna Regional EMS team.
Jan. 2026
At UPMC Western Maryland's Government Affairs Summit, leaders briefed local, state, and federal officials on the upcoming transition to the CMS AHEAD model in 2026. As part of its longstanding commitment to advocacy, UPMC continues to champion policies that strengthen access to high quality, patient centered care across the region. The Maryland Hospital Association, including presenter Jake Whitaker, outlined key legislative priorities such as payer denials, liability reform, and staffing mandates. Attendees also discussed Medicaid changes and opportunities within the CMS Rural Health Transformation Program. Maryland lawmakers will convene for the 2026 legislative session in Annapolis from January 14 through April 13.
Jan. 2026
UPMC Washington announced the renaming of the CARE Center for Family Birth and Women’s Health to UPMC Magee-Womens in Washington, aligning local women’s and maternal health services with the nationally recognized Magee-Womens brand. The event highlighted UPMC’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality care close to home and underscored the system’s broader $300 million, 10-year investment in Washington and Greene counties.
With participation from senior UPMC leadership and local elected officials including Nick Sherman, Washington County Commissioner; JoJo Burgess, Mayor, City of Washington; Nate Nevala, District Chief of Staff, Rep. Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14); and Casey Grealish, Executive Assistant to Washington County Commissioner Electra Janis, the announcement reinforced strong regional partnership, patient impact, and continued investment in the community.
Dec. 2025
On Monday, Dec. 22, Mayor Elect Corey O’Connor accompanied PGA Tour golfer and Pittsburgh native Neal Shipley for a special visit to UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh to deliver gifts to patients and spread some extra holiday cheer.
Nov. 2025
Patti Jackson, president, UPMC in North Central Pa, co-led the Maternal Health Workgroup alongside Donald Zaycosky, senior vice president and chief legal officer of Guthrie at the Northern Tier Rural Health Summit. Patti’s leadership guided important discussions on maternal health challenges and opportunities in rural communities.
Patti also played a key role in the Rural Health Summit at IUP, where she shared takeaways in the “Mobilize and Execute: Post Pennsylvania Regional Rural Health Summit Action” Session.
The group discussed updates from the 2025 Rural Regional Health Summits across Pennsylvania, highlighting progress, sharing lessons learned, and planning next steps for continued collaboration in rural health initiatives statewide.
Nov. 2025
UPMC Washington Hospital recently welcomed Congressman Reschenthaler, Congressman Bresnahan, and County Commissioner Sherman for a visit, showcasing the hospital’s commitment to advancing health care in the region.
The visit highlighted UPMC’s significant investments in behavioral health and maternal health, as well as workforce strength and retention.
It was a productive discussion that underscored UPMC Washington’s role as a model for how regional partnerships can preserve access, strengthen the workforce, and expand specialty care while stabilizing local health care delivery.
Sept. 2025
UPMC Western Maryland welcomed Congresswoman April McClain Delaney and representatives from Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks’ offices.
The team showcased Schwab Cancer Center, as well as the Center for Hope and Healing, which is a residential facility offering comprehensive care for adults battling mental illness and addiction.
This visit highlights the power of advocacy and partnerships to make a difference in our communities through rural health care access, workforce development, and sustainable funding.
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