“It has been a true honor to lead the Maryland Department of Health over the past year, as the Moore-Miller Administration works tirelessly to protect and advance the health and well being of all Marylanders. Traveling across the state, from the western mountains to the eastern shore, I am inspired by the opportunity we have to impact Marylanders throughout their lives. 

“The progress that we have made over the past year provides a foundation that will continue to drive us forward:

Maintaining vaccine access

“Maryland leads the nation in protecting vaccine access, having removed barriers to needed care and serving as a trusted source of information. During confusing changes to federal guidance, we issued standing prescriptions and launched a new program to expand access by providing free vaccines to uninsured and underinsured adults. We partnered with other states through the Northeast Public Health Collaborative and the Governors Action Alliance Public Health Alliance to advance public health and science. And, we will now implement Governor Moore’s Vax Act, providing Marylanders with guidance and recommendations grounded in rigorous, evidence-based science, and ensuring these recommended services are in turn fully covered by regulated insurance.

Transforming rural health care

“Maryland was awarded $168 million in vital federal funding–twice the national average per person–to transform rural health care in our state. That success was possible through the thoughtful input and feedback we received from our rural communities. We are now using this money to strengthen the rural health care workforce; innovate to bring care to where people are; and empower Marylanders to eat for health.

Mitigating Federal Cuts to Medicaid 

“Our goal is to protect Medicaid coverage for every Marylander who is eligible. We have made incredible strides to implement the necessary systems and changes impacting Maryland Medicaid in the coming months. By working smart, and leveraging technology for more seamless and automated eligibility, we are taking important steps to make sure all Marylanders can remain covered and are able to navigate the new requirements called for by the federal government. 

Strengthening behavioral health

“We made critical investments in the state’s crisis care infrastructure this year, expanding mobile crisis response and the 988 Lifeline. In addition, our inaugural roadmap launched, serving as a data-driven guide to improve access and strengthen services for children, youth and families - driving toward a more equitable and sustainable public behavioral health system. As part of this, Medicaid will expand to address youth behavioral health needs in clinician offices, homes and communities.

Pursuing a world-class health system 

“We successfully negotiated with the federal government to secure Maryland’s unique health care payment model - the first state in the country to do so. For the next decade, the AHEAD model will be an important tool to help us manage costs and quality and deliver a world class health system for our state. Through expanding primary care and strengthening population health, we are innovating to keep people healthy in their communities.

Collaborating for change 

“Throughout this year, we have partnered with our communities to navigate complex and challenging situations, and will continue to engage with advocates, providers, payers, businesses, and others as we protect our programs. The input, feedback and lived experiences of our partners and our program participants enable us to ensure maximum impact and programs that work best for the people they serve. 

“As we navigate the current uncertainty, we are meeting these challenges with a clear head and a steady hand. It is a privilege to serve our state, and I am fully committed to the work ahead—focusing on the health and well-being of every Marylander.”

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.