Three local physicians were recognized by Calvert Memorial Hospital for their leadership and service to the community. The honorees were Dr. Emad Al-Banna, Dr. Michelle Johnson and Dr. Shafquat Meraj.

Al-Banna was honored for his work with the Calvert Interfaith Council. Johnson was recognized for her advocacy of women’s health issues. Meraj was saluted for his many contributions to cancer education, prevention and early detection in Calvert County.

Al-Banna, who joined CMH in the early 70s, is board certified in abdominal surgery. He is currently the chair of the Department of Surgery and serves on the hospital’s Medical Executive Committee. He is a founding member of the Calvert Interfaith Council, which advocates for affordable housing, homeless shelters and substance abuse programs.

Johnson, who joined CMH in 2003, is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology. She is currently chair of the Department of OB/GYN and serves on the hospital’s Medical Executive Committee.

Johnson is also the medical director for the hospital’s Woman’s Wellness program, which provides for early detection and intervention of breast and cervical cancer. She is a frequent speaker at community events and is a key member of the Improved Pregnancy Outcome Project, a multi-disciplinary committee dedicated to addressing the issues that affect the health of newborns.

Meraj, who joined CMH in 2003, is board certified in urology. He was instrumental in planning the first men’s health fair at CMH last year. He consistently volunteers his own time to provide free prostate cancer screenings for the hospital’s Community Wellness program and is a regular presenter on cancer-related topics.