August 20, 2026
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Maryland Department of Health announces launch of Assisted Outpatient Treatment program
Public awareness campaign begins in September, promotes program and participant referrals
Baltimore, MD — The Maryland Department of Health today announced the launch of the state’s Assisted Outpatient Treatment program, a significant advancement in Maryland’s behavioral healthcare services. Established by state legislation, the Assisted Outpatient Treatment program provides court-ordered support to individuals with severe mental illness who have had difficulty adhering to voluntary treatment. The program currently operates in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, and the Eastern Shore, with plans for full statewide implementation in July 2027.
“For many individuals living with severe mental illness, maintaining engagement and consistency in treatment can be a daily challenge,” said Maryland Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani. “The Assisted Outpatient Treatment program is designed to bridge the gap between an individual's struggle and effective, consistent care by creating a structured pathway to community-based treatment, stability and recovery.”
The Department will kick off a multimedia public awareness campaign in September across the initial phase regions to connect with critical stakeholders, such as law enforcement, mental health facilities, case management, and care coordination.
“Our outreach highlights key resources and tools designed specifically for professionals in various fields,” said Deputy Secretary for Behavioral Health Dr. Rachel Talley. “A core element of our statewide rollout centers on this awareness and training so that Maryland professionals can connect people in their communities with the support that this program provides. Through a collaborative, person-centered approach, we hope to empower participants to remain consistently engaged in their treatment, fostering long-term recovery and sustained stability.”
Assisted Outpatient Treatment participants receive individualized, community-based support from a multidisciplinary Care Coordination Team that includes a psychiatrist, a case manager, a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, and a program director. Services may include case management, peer support, treatment planning, referrals to behavioral health and substance use services, housing and transportation assistance, crisis coordination, medication management when appropriate, and other recovery supports identified in the treatment plan. Individuals are encouraged to participate in developing their treatment plan, identify preferred providers and supports, and receive services designed to promote stability, recovery, and successful participation in community life.
The Assisted Outpatient Treatment program follows over one year of thorough preparation, stakeholder collaboration, and workforce training carried out alongside the Maryland Judiciary, local behavioral health authorities, and community partners. Looking ahead, the Department’s priorities will center on tracking participant results and program operations, delivering technical support to teams, and planning for upcoming expansions.
For more information about the Assisted Outpatient Treatment program, including access to educational resources, visit health.maryland.gov/TryAOT.
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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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