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​December 12, 2024

Media Contact:
Chase Cook, Director, Office of Communications, 410-767-8649

Maryland Department of Health retains public health accreditation​

Baltimore, MD – The Maryland Department of Health today announced that it has successfully retained its accreditation from the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). The PHAB grants accreditation to health departments after fulfilling stringent quality, innovation, and improvement criteria. The Department first received accreditation in 2017, becoming one of the initial 200 health departments to achieve this status since PHAB was established in 2011.

“We have demonstrated our ability to meet established standards while continuously adapting to address new public health challenges, " said Health Secretary Dr. Laura Herrera Scott. “By maintaining accreditation, the Department continues as a select group of health departments nationwide that voluntarily undergo such a rigorous evaluation. This recognition enhances the Department’s ability to forge partnerships and secure resources that support public health initiatives and improve health outcomes.”

PHAB is an independent nonprofit organization that manages a national voluntary accreditation program to improve public health departments' quality and performance. Achieving accreditation, valid for five years, is an important milestone. Health departments must fulfill comprehensive standards across various essential areas, including disease prevention, emergency preparedness, health promotion, and community partnerships.

“Maintaining our accreditation reflects the hard work and dedication of our team of public health professionals,” said Deputy Secretary for Public Health Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman. “The reaccreditation highlights the Department’s commitment to promoting healthier communities, improving health outcomes, and advancing health equity throughout the state.”

For more information about the Maryland Department of Health’s public health accreditation, visit health.maryland.gov/pha/Pages/Public-Health-Accreditation.aspx.


The Maryland Department of Health is dedicated to protecting and improving the health and safety of all Marylanders through disease prevention, access to care, quality management and community engagement. ​​​

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