NORTH BETHESDA, Md. (October 4, 2026) – Elisa Gil-Pires, MD, FACP, CMD, CPE, executive vice president, chief medical officer, and medical director of Charles E. Smith Life Communities, began her two-year term as president of the Mid-Atlantic Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine (MMDA) at the organization’s 33rd Annual Conference on October 3.
MMDA is the regional chapter of the Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medical Association (PALTmed), the national association representing medical directors and other professionals in post-acute and long-term care. MMDA represents professionals in Maryland, Delaware, and Washington, D.C.
Gil-Pires joined MMDA nearly 13 years ago, and has served in leadership roles since 2022, most recently as vice president from 2024 to 2026.
“I am honored and very proud to serve as president of MMDA,” said Dr. Gil-Pires. “I have learned so much from my colleagues who volunteer countless hours to advance the priorities affecting older adults. Over my two-year term, my focus will be on further strengthening our advocacy, advancing care standards, and ensuring that our residents’ voices are heard and valued. I accept this responsibility with deep humility, grace, and purpose.”
Legislation that would require nursing home medical directors to be certified by the American Board of Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine is a key advocacy priority for MMDA and PALTMed, and will be a focus of Dr. Gil-Pires’ term.
The proposed legislation, which MMDA plans to bring before lawmakers in the next legislative session, aims to ensure that physicians overseeing care in long-term care institutions have specialized training and expertise in the field.
“We reap the benefits of Dr. Gil’s extensive clinical expertise and commitment to improving the lives of the older adults we serve every day here on our campus,” said Bruce J. Lederman, president and CEO of Charles E. Smith Life Communities. “We are proud to see her bring that same expertise and commitment to her leadership of MMDA, and we look forward to the impact that will have on older adults and healthcare professionals throughout the region.”
“Dr. Gil is uniquely qualified for this role,” said MMDA Administrator Ian Cordes. “After having been mentored by many of our current and past leaders, she understands what MMDA needs to successfully transition to the next level.”
