Maryland Behavioral Health Connect is a web-based platform currently under development to improve access to behavioral healthcare across the state. Once launched, this platform will help hospitals and other providers more efficiently find and refer people to appropriate behavioral health treatment.
Background
HB1121 of 2020 requires the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) to establish a statewide system for health care providers to identify and access available inpatient and outpatient behavioral health services for patients in a seamless manner. Following a robust procurement process, on November 5, 2025, the Maryland Board of Public Works approved Carahsoft Technology Corporation - Bamboo Health as the vendor to implement the bed registry and referral system.
HB1121 also establishes an
Advisory Committee to advise MDH on the platform's development and implementation.
Key Components
- Provider Inventory: Searchable list of licensed behavioral health providers.
- Bed Registry: Centralized provider information and service availability for inpatient behavioral health to streamline patient placement and reduce treatment delays.
- Referrals: Electronic submission and receipt of referrals to improve care coordination and timely access to care.
