Promoting a healthy community

Meritus Health believes that health care is not just for people when they are sick or injured. Through many avenues, we reach out to the community and offer ways to help you stay healthy. One example is the collaboration with Meritus Health and Washington County Health Department known as “Healthy Washington County”. Healthy Washington County is a coalition of public and private organizations whose mission is to strengthen the health and wellness of our community and residents.

Go For Bold and join the community as we strive to lose 1 million pounds by 2030. Track your progress by using our weight tracker.

Not sure how to get started on your Go For Bold journey? Read Larry's Go For Bold Success Story for ideas.

Serving our Community

Meritus Health's mission - to improve the health status of our region by providing comprehensive health services to patients and families - is a guiding principle for each of the physicians, nurses, and other staff members who work here. Meritus Health is dedicated to responding to the health care needs of our community and beyond with high quality, compassionate care. Each year, we put forth millions of dollars to support the well-being of those who live in our area.

Taking care of the underserved

The Medication Assistance Center (MAC) provides access to free or reduced-cost prescription drugs to low-income or chronically ill patients with no prescription insurance. The center has served more than 6,000 residents of Washington County and those who are treated by physicians located in Washington County. Since 2000, Meritus Health has provided this service free of charge.

Medical screenings keep our community healthy and are held throughout the year. Free vascular, blood pressure and other screenings are held at Meritus Medical Center, Robinwood Professional Center and other community events.

Our financial assistance program serves Meritus Health patients who are unable to pay all or part of their medical bills. Improving health care access to those with limited incomes and resources is an important part of Meritus Health's mission.

The Your Health Matters program uses magazine, radio and newsletters to keep the public informed of Meritus Health sponsored community workshops, support groups, classes - and offers tips on living a healthier life.

Spring through fall our Farmers's Market presents the public with healthy food choices and gives local farmers an opportunity to market their fresh produce.

55 and Up is for people age 55 and older who enjoy learning about health-related topics over lunch. The group meets with physicians and healthcare professionals once a month to understand health topics of interest.

Parish Nursing, or faith community nursing, encourages parishioners of all ages and faiths to become active partners in the management of their health. Parish nurses act as a vital link between the faith and medical communities.

The Forensic Nurse Program is a comprehensive and compassionate approach to the treatment of victims of sexual assault and abuse. Meritus Medical Center's SAFE program uses trained and certified SAFE examiners to provide specialized medical care, evidence collection, and emotional support to victims of sexual assault.

Giving back to the community

Each year Meritus Health employees contribute time and money to improve the well-being of our friends and neighbors. Fundraising campaigns like the United Way, March of Dimes, and the Walk to End Alzheimers inspire our health care professionals to give back to causes near to their hearts and professions. During the holiday season, our physicians and employees make and deliver hot meals for area families and seniors through our Lend-a-Hand event. Cancer survivors celebrate the gift of life each June when the John R. Marsh Cancer Center sponsors a family picnic for those touched by this life-changing disease.

Investing in our future

Through job shadowing and mentoring programs, nursing students from Hagerstown Community College and Towson University gain an intimate experience of their future profession.