The Membership Spotlight is designed to highlight our members who model exceptional leadership in Family Medicine. These members are leaders in their communities, their workplace and the MDAFP. 

MDAFP highlights members through the MDAFP Membership Spotlight feature here on our website, in the monthly newsletter, and on social media. Members who do notable things in the areas of leadership, advocacy, community and public health are suitable for the Membership Spotlight. 

We invite you to recommend MDAFP Family Medicine colleagues and mentors who you believe exemplify Family Medicine in their practice and communities. Want others to know how you go above and beyond? Send us your story and inspire others by sharing the work you or other Family Physicians do outside of the Academy.

Dr. Calixte was appointed to member of the Maryland Commission on Health Equity of Maryland Department of Health. Congratulations Dr. Calixte, we thank her for her service and for taking on an important role for the citizens in the State of Maryland.

Briefly tell us about yourself, and specifically your path to Family Medicine and your interest in Public Health.

"As a first-generation Haitian American raised in Long Island, New York, I have always been passionate about helping others. I was accepted into the BS/MD program at City College, a decision I have never regretted. My interest in family medicine was sparked while volunteering with a family medicine physician, where I appreciated the broad scope of care and the opportunity to assist individuals of all ages. Two colleagues recommended the Eastern Shore, highlighting the growing Haitian population and the need for healthcare providers who speak Creole. Currently, I am one of only three providers in the county fluent in Creole, allowing me to effectively serve and advocate for this community."

"My fascination with public health developed during an epidemiology course, which led to a summer internship at the NYC Department of Health. I fell in love with public health and knew that I wanted to be able to pursue public health. After residency, I got my Master of Public Health with a focus on Health Policy. I am fortunate that I get to apply my public health interest and family medicine as the Medical Director of Wicomico and Somerset County Health Departments."

What interested you in serving on the Maryland Commission on Health Equity?

"I became interested in serving on the Maryland Commission on Health Equity due to my growing frustration with the injustices faced by non-English speakers in my community. Currently, only a limited number of health offices offer language lines or interpreters to facilitate communication with these individuals. As a result, some primary care offices are turning away patients who do not speak English or do not have an English-speaking companion.
This issue is particularly concerning for infants, who often do not receive timely care, guidance, or immunizations. Despite my efforts to raise these concerns with both federal and local officials, little action has been taken. I am eager to highlight this issue to promote greater enforcement and support for equitable healthcare access."

What gives you the greatest satisfaction in the work you do for your community?

"I strive to make a positive impact on people's lives every day. It brings me immense satisfaction when patients express that they feel better following my treatment. As the Medical Director of the Wicomico and Somerset County Health Departments, I have the privilege of influencing the health and well-being of the community in which I live."

Congratulations Dr. Motter-Mast, on being awarded the Maryland State Medical Society 2024 Distinguished Member award. We recognize Dr. Motter-Mast for her outstanding contributions to MedChi as Chair of the Council on Medical Economics and as a leading force for MedChi engagement within Greater Baltimore Medical Center.