Gilchrist Services Executive and Leadership Team

Leana Hoover, the Chief Operating Officer at Gilchrist Services, directs all internal operational workflows and service delivery models. Overseeing the daily execution of hospice and geriatric care programs, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that clinical resources align with the nonprofit mission. This leadership role involves optimizing administrative efficiency to support patients facing serious illnesses throughout the Maryland region. By streamlining service coordination, Leana Hoover directly impacts the quality of care provided to families during end-of-life transitions. Furthermore, the Chief Operating Officer manages cross-departmental collaboration to maintain high standards of compassionate service. Through rigorous oversight of organizational infrastructure, Hoover secures the operational stability necessary for long-term growth. This position requires constant monitoring of service metrics to guarantee that every patient receives personalized attention. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer drives the strategic expansion of care initiatives to reach more individuals in need of specialized support.

Gail Chevalier, the Chief of Staff at Gilchrist Services, coordinates executive strategy and facilitates communication across the leadership team. Overseeing the alignment of organizational goals with daily administrative functions, the Chief of Staff ensures that the nonprofit maintains focus on its core mission of palliative and grief support. This leadership role involves managing high-level projects that impact the entire Maryland service network. By fostering collaboration between departments, Gail Chevalier directly supports the efficiency of hospice and geriatric care delivery. Furthermore, the Chief of Staff acts as a primary liaison for the Board, translating complex strategic objectives into actionable tasks for the organization. Through meticulous planning and resource allocation, Chevalier strengthens the internal culture of compassion and excellence. This position requires a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape to navigate challenges effectively. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff drives the execution of key initiatives that improve the overall impact of the organization.

Philip Shaheen, the Medical Director & Section of Hospice Chief & Associate Chief Medical Officer at Gilchrist Services, directs all clinical protocols for hospice and end-of-life care. Overseeing the medical staff, the Medical Director & Section of Hospice Chief & Associate Chief Medical Officer ensures that every patient receives evidence-based, compassionate treatment tailored to specific needs. This leadership role involves setting clinical standards that define the quality of care across the Maryland region. By supervising medical practitioners, Philip Shaheen directly influences the effectiveness of pain management and symptom control strategies. Furthermore, the Medical Director & Section of Hospice Chief & Associate Chief Medical Officer collaborates with other clinical leaders to integrate palliative practices into the broader care model. Through constant evaluation of medical outcomes, Shaheen maintains the highest standards of professional excellence. This position requires a commitment to patient-centered care that supports families during difficult times. Ultimately, the Medical Director & Section of Hospice Chief & Associate Chief Medical Officer secures the clinical integrity of the organization.

Lakshmi Vaidyanathan, the Section Chief, Integrative Palliative Medicine, Associate Chief Medical Officer at Gilchrist Services, directs the development and implementation of integrative palliative care programs. Overseeing the holistic approach to symptom management, the Section Chief, Integrative Palliative Medicine, Associate Chief Medical Officer ensures that patients receive comprehensive support beyond traditional medical interventions. This leadership role involves designing innovative care pathways that address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals facing serious illnesses. By integrating diverse therapeutic modalities, Lakshmi Vaidyanathan directly enhances the quality of life for patients throughout the Maryland service area. Furthermore, the Section Chief, Integrative Palliative Medicine, Associate Chief Medical Officer works closely with the medical team to refine clinical practices and improve patient outcomes. Through continuous research and application of palliative best practices, Vaidyanathan elevates the standard of care. This position requires a focus on compassionate, personalized service delivery. Ultimately, the Section Chief, Integrative Palliative Medicine, Associate Chief Medical Officer drives the expansion of integrative health services.