![[photo, Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building entrance, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/16dhmh/images/1198-1-10082c.jpg)
With Senate advice and consent, the Governor appoints the Secretary of Health (Code Health-General Article, sec. 2-102). The Secretary is responsible for the health interests of all Marylanders; sets health care policy; administers laws relating to health issues; and adopts and revises a State health improvement plan. While overseeing the Maryland Department of Health, the Secretary also directs and coordinates numerous boards, commissions, and citizen advisory groups (Code Health-General Article, secs. 2-101 through 2-611).
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Room 500, Baltimore, MD 21201
In October 2004, the Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities was established within the Office of Secretary (Chapter 443, Acts of 2004; Code Health-General Article, Subtitle 10).
With public and private organizations and institutions, the Office works to secure funding, administer grants, establish programs, and conduct research to reduce and eliminate racial or ethnic health care disparities in Maryland. Emphasizing habits of health care and preventive health measures, the Office also seeks to educate the public and reach underserved minorities (Code Health-General Article, secs. 20-1001 through 20-1007).
For the Secretary of Health, the Office helps define priorities for State health programs, services, and resources to address disparities. To expedite delivery of health services to minorities, it also recommends changes in State laws and regulations.
The Committee advises the Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities on improving the health of Maryland's ethnic and racial minorities. To assist the Office in fulfilling its duties and responsibilities, the Committee may set long- and short-term goals and objectives for the Office. Further, the Committee may consider data reporting of the health status of each minority group; increasing knowledge and understanding of health risk factors; and coordinating Office activities with Department of Health projects for disease prevention, health promotion, service delivery, and research.
PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT & STRATEGIC PLANNING TEAM
HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
Under the Healthcare System are five psychiatric hospitals:
The Healthcare System also oversees two psychiatric residential treatment centers for youth:
In 1968, the Holly Center began when the General Assembly authorized the Regional Mental Retardation Center-Eastern Shore (Chapter 435, Acts of 1968). That center was renamed the Holly Center in 1973. It was placed under State Hospital Administration within Operations in 2019. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Holly Center, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
At Holly Center in Wicomico County, residential and training services are offered to individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families residing in the nine counties of the Eastern Shore. Both in the Center and the community, education, training, and habilitation services and programs are provided (Code Health-General Article, sec. 7-305). Further, the Center coordinates and assists day programs and group homes for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
POTOMAC CENTER
The Potomac Center originated in 1978 as Western Maryland I-Mental Retardation Center. It became the Potomac Center in 1981, and moved to State Hospital Administration under Operations in 2019. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Potomac Center, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
In Washington County, the Potomac Center serves as a State residential center for individuals with intellectual disabilities (Code Health-General Article, sec. 7-501). It provides habilitative services to expedite the return of individuals to a less restrictive environment. Persons with borderline to profound intellectual disabilities are served by the Center.
With the Alcohol and Drug Administration and the Mental Hygiene Administration, the Potomac Center initiated the Transitions Program in 2009. This program provides a therapeutic environment to treat individuals with both mental illness and intellectual disabilities, and possibly compounded by substance abuse.
SECURE EVALUATION & THERAPEUTIC TREATMENT UNIT
When Rosewood Center in Owings Mills, Baltimore County, closed in July 2009, those residents at Rosewood committed there by the courts as developmentally disabled adults either incompetent to stand trial or found not criminally responsible for their crimes first were transferred to the Sykesville Secure Evaluation and Therapeutic Treatment Unit in Carroll County. In January 2020, patients from the Unit were moved to the Potomac Center in Hagerstown.
In Washington County, the Unit is a secure commitment program with a capacity for up to twenty individuals.
THOMAS B. FINAN HOSPITAL CENTER
Under the Mental Hygiene Administration, the Thomas B. Finan Hospital Center opened in October 1978. It became part of the Behavioral Health Administration in July 2014. Later, it moved to State Hospital Administration under Operations in 2019. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Thomas B. Finan Hospital Center, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
Thomas B. Finan Hospital Center, 10102 Country Club Road, Cumberland, Maryland, July 2006. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
Licensed by the Maryland Department of Health to the County Health Department, the one-cottage Massie Unit treats adults who abuse drugs and alcohol. Licensed by the Department of Juvenile Services to the County Health Department, the two-cottage Jackson Unit treats juveniles with substance abuse problems or children in need of supervision. Another cottage is leased to Archway Station, Inc., as a 16-bed rehabilitation apartment complex.
REGIONAL INSTITUTE FOR CHILDREN & ADOLESCENTS - BALTIMORE
In 1958, the Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents-Baltimore opened. It originally was on the grounds of Rosewood State Hospital in Baltimore County, but moved to southwest Baltimore, near the U.S. National Cemetery, in the early 1970s. Formerly under the Mental Hygiene Administration, the Institute was made part of the Behavioral Health Administration in July 2014. It later was placed under State Hospital Administration within Operations in 2019. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents-Baltimore, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
A residential and day treatment center for mental health, the Institute provides intensive inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care, educational services, and community service programs for youths between ages 12 to 18 with serious emotional illnesses. It serves adolescents from Baltimore City, the Eastern Shore, Central Maryland, and parts of Western Maryland.
Licensed to treat up to 45 inpatients, the Institute in Fiscal Year 2016 served a daily average of 36 residential patients and 55 outpatients.
JOHN L. GILDNER REGIONAL INSTITUTE FOR CHILDREN & ADOLESCENTS - ROCKVILLE
In 1980, the Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents-Rockville received its first patients. On May 9, 2001, the Institute was renamed for its founding chief executive officer, John L. Gildner, who died in November 1999. Formerly under the Mental Hygiene Administration, the Institute was made part of the Behavioral Health Administration in July 2014. Later, it transferred to State Hospital Administration under Operations in 2019. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the John L. Gildner Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents-Rockville, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
For children and adolescents, aged 10 to 18 years, with severe emotional disabilities, the Gildner Regional Institute in Montgomery County provides mental health treatment, education, and rehabilitative services.
For eligible children and adolescents, the Institute offers three options: a short-term Evaluation Unit, a school-only program, and a full-time residential treatment program.
For 90-day evaluations and diagnostic screening, the Evaluation Unit accepts children referred by court orders, as well as by other agencies.
To be admitted to the school-only program, students must be residents of Montgomery County and be referred to the Institute through the Montgomery County Public Schools. Indeed, the school at the Institute is a special education program of the Montgomery County Public Schools.
Referring agencies may include the child's school system, other local agencies, or the Department of Human Services, the Maryland Department of Health, and the Department of Juvenile Services.
The Institute is funded to serve an average daily population of 80 young people in residence and 100 children between the ages of 5 and 18 in day treatment.
On a 45-acre tract one mile south of Jessup, the Clifton T. Perkins Hospital Center is the State's only maximum security hospital. Formally established in 1959 as Maximum Security Hospital, it was placed under the Department of Mental Hygiene. In April 1960, the Hospital was renamed by the General Assembly to honor Dr. Clifton T. Perkins, a distinguished psychiatrist who served as Commissioner of Mental Hygiene from 1950 to 1959 (Chapter 814, Acts of 1959). Dr. Perkins worked to desegregate Maryland psychiatric hospitals, and had planned and defined the function of the Hospital but died before it opened early in 1960. The Hospital in 1961 was transferred by the General Assembly to the State Board of Health and Mental Hygiene (Chapter 841, Acts of 1961). It was reformed by the General Assembly in 1973 as the Clifton T. Perkins Hospital Center under the Mental Hygiene Administration (Chapter 740, Acts of 1973), which became the Behavioral Health Administration in July 2014. It later moved to State Hospital Administration under Operations in 2019. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Clifton T. Perkins Hospital Center, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
Patients referred by the courts of Maryland for pretrial psychiatric evaluation are treated by the Center, which also provides a residence for individual offenders who have been found not guilty by reason of insanity. Moreover, the Center serves as a hospital for prisoners who become mentally ill and require involuntary psychiatric hospitalization. Prisoners are committed to the Center for an indefinite length of time and only can be released upon the authorization of a judge. From other State psychiatric hospitals, the Center also accepts patients whose illness requires maximum security treatment for a period of time.
In Howard County, the Center is licensed to serve 298 resident patients, and in Fiscal Year 2019 was funded to serve a daily average of 288 patients.
DEER'S HEAD CENTER
Authorized by the General Assembly in 1945, Deer's Head Center was established in 1950 (Chapter 994, Acts of 1945). The Center joined the Community and Public Health Administration in January 1997, and transferred to the Family Health Administration in July 2001 (Code Health-General Article, sec. 19-502). In July 2012, the Center moved to the Health Systems and Infrastructure Administration, and in 2015 was placed directly under the Chief of Staff for Public Health Services. In June 2018, it transferred to the Assistant Secretary, Public Health Services Chronic Hospitals, and in March 2019 to State Hospital Administration under Operations. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Deer's Head Center, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
In Wicomico County, the Center is a regional facility for the chronically ill and elderly adults in need of medical and rehabilitation services, or general medical care for chronic disease or terminal illness. It also operates a kidney dialysis facility for area residents.
The Center is licensed for 66 hospital beds, providing the services of a chronic disease hospital (including a small hospice service) and 80 long-term nursing home care beds, as well as outpatient and end-stage kidney dialysis, and outpatient rehabilitation therapy. Also in FY2017, the Center provided 8,830 dialysis treatments to 62 patients (Code Health-General Article, secs. 19-501 through 19-507).
EASTERN SHORE HOSPITAL CENTER
Eastern Shore Hospital Center was started by the General Assembly in 1912 as Eastern Shore State Hospital (Chapter 187, Acts of 1912). Built on the banks of the Choptank River, the Hospital admitted its first patients in 1915. The Hospital was placed under the Board of Mental Hygiene in 1922, the Department of Mental Hygiene in 1949, and the Mental Hygiene Administration in 1969. It was renamed by the General Assembly as Eastern Shore Hospital Center in 1973 (Chapter 740, Acts of 1973). In August 2001, the original hospital was replaced by a new 80-bed facility in Cambridge. In July 2014, the General Assembly made the Center part of the Behavioral Health Administration (Chapter 460, Acts of 2014). Later, it moved to State Hospital Administration under Operations in 2019. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Eastern Shore Hospital Center, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
In Dorchester County, the Center provides comprehensive psychiatric care for patients with mental illness who reside on the lower Eastern Shore. The facility was licensed for a daily capacity of 80 patients in FY2019 (Code Health-General Article, sec. 10-406).
SPRING GROVE HOSPITAL CENTER
Spring Grove Hospital Center is the oldest hospital for the mentally ill in Maryland, and the second oldest mental hospital in the United States. Just west of Baltimore City, the Center is based on a 200-acre site in Baltimore County.
In 1797, Spring Grove Hospital Center was established by the General Assembly in Baltimore at Monument Street and Broadway, the site where the Johns Hopkins Hospital later would be constructed (Chapter 102, Acts of 1797).
Bland Bryant Building, Spring Grove Hospital Center, Catonsville, Maryland, April 2003. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
Foster Wade Building, Spring Grove Hospital Center, Catonsville, Maryland, April 2003. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
On May 18, 2022, ownership of Spring Grove Hospital Center was transferred to University of Maryland Baltimore County with plans by the Maryland Department of Health to lease the property for up to 20 years and then vacate it for future campus development.
Comprehensive mental health services to adult and geriatric patients from Baltimore City, and Baltimore and Harford counties are provided by the Center. For these jurisdictions, the Center also conducts evaluations to determine competency to stand trial and criminal responsibility (Code Health-General Article, sec. 10-406). In addition, the Center provides ancillary services to the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, a joint program between the Maryland Department of Health, and the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
In Fiscal Year 2019, the Center had a licensed capacity for 353 inpatients.
SPRINGFIELD HOSPITAL CENTER
Springfield Hospital Center, Sykesville, Maryland, August 2006. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
In southern Carroll County, the Center is a regional psychiatric facility which admits patients from northern Baltimore City and Carroll, Howard and Montgomery counties, as well as mentally ill deaf patients statewide.
The Center is the largest State facility in Maryland for the care of persons with mental illness. It provides acute, sub-acute and long-term inpatient services to Maryland residents, who are referred from hospital emergency rooms, inpatient units in general hospitals, or from State or local courts. In Fiscal Year 2019, it has a licensed capacity for 220 patients (Code Health-General Article, sec. 10-406).
WESTERN MARYLAND CENTER
Western Maryland Center began as Western Maryland State Hospital. Authorized by the General Assembly in 1952, the Hospital opened in 1957 (Chapter 53, Acts of 1952). The Center was made part of the Community and Public Health Administration in January 1997, and moved to the Family Health Administration in July 2001. In July 2012, it was placed under the Health Systems and Infrastructure Administration, and in 2015 under the Chief of Staff for Public Health Services. In June 2018, it transferred to the Assistant Secretary, Public Health Services Chronic Hospitals, and in March 2019 to State Hospital Administration under Operations. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Western Maryland Center, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
In Washington County, the Center provides chronic care or rehabilitation hospital care, long-term nursing home care, and inpatient renal dialysis services. The Center also offers adult day care; end-stage kidney dialysis services; and physical, occupational and speech rehabilitation to outpatients. In Fiscal Year 2018, it had 60 licensed hospital beds and 63 licensed comprehensive care beds and an average daily population of 49 inpatients (Code Health-General Article, sec. secs. 19-501 through 19-507).
BUDGET MANAGEMENT OFFICE
The Budget Management Office carries out the Department's budgetary functions.
OFFICE OF EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROGRAMS
The Office monitors Department programs and health care providers to assure that they comply with civil rights laws, mandates, and regulations. For the same purpose, the Office monitors personnel management, services, and procurement procedures of the Department. The Office also develops and monitors programs for equal opportunities for employment, including affirmative action; on-site review; outreach recruitment; and complaint processing. In addition, the Office develops and monitors programs for equal access to health care, and minority business participation in State contracts.
OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS
OFFICE OF REGULATIONS & POLICY
Research that uses human subjects is reviewed by the Board to ensure that the rights, safety, and dignity of those involved are protected. The review process is mandated as a condition of federal funding.
MARYLAND COMMUNITY HEALTH RESOURCES COMMISSION
The Maryland Community Health Resources Commission was formed by the General Assembly in July 2005, and placed under Regulatory Programs in August 2005 (Chapter 280, Acts of 2005). In June 2025, the Commission was moved under the Deputy Chief of Staff.
To improve access to health-care for those who are under insured and those without any insurance, the Commission awards operating and information technology grants to community clinics which meet Commission-determined criteria as community health resources. Using such clinics as the basis for community health care, the Commission helps communities establish integrated health services.
To four-year terms, the Commission's eleven members are appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. The Governor designates the chair. With the Governor's approval, the Commission appoints the Executive Director.
Authorization for the Commission extends through June 30, 2035 (Chapter 625, Acts of 2008; Chapter 368, Acts of 2014; Chapter 386, Acts of 2024; Code Health-General Article, secs. 19-2101 through 19-2111).
The Commission is assisted by the Health Equity Resource Community Advisory Committee, the Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports, and the Maryland Council on Advancement of School-Based Health Centers.
For health equity communities and health equity research practitioners, the Committee provides assistance and guidance on program evaluation and data collection metrics. The Committee also proposes strategies for tax incentives and loan repayments to assist health equity communities in achieving their mission. Moreover, the Committee advises the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission, and helps the Commission prepare its annual report on how the law affects health care for health equity communities.
Eleven members constitute the Committee. Three members are appointed by the Governor, three by the Senate President, and three by the House Speaker. Two members serve ex officio and do not vote. The Chair of the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission chairs the Committee (Code Health-General Article, sec. 20-1403).
MARYLAND CONSORTIUM ON COORDINATED COMMUNITY SUPPORTS
To meet the behavioral health needs of students, the Consortium is to develop a statewide framework for creating coordinated community supports partnerships. Such partnerships are to be structured so that they provide community services and supports in a holistic and nonstigmatizing environment, and coordinate with other services currently received by students. A model for expanding behavioral health services to students in each local school system is to be developed, as well as a grant program to support the Consortium's objectives. Best practices for the creation of a positive classroom environment for all students will be established in consultation with the State Department of Education.
A payment reimbursement program for providers will be evaluated by the Consortium, which also is to ensure coverage for uninsured students. In addition, the Consortium is to create accountability metrics to evaluate grants awarded by the Consortium.
The Consortium consists of twenty members. Of these, the Governor appoints three members; the Senate President appoints two, and the Senate President and House Speaker jointly appoint two, Six members serve ex officio. The Consortium chooses the Chair (Code Education Article, sec. 7-447.1)
MARYLAND COUNCIL ON ADVANCEMENT OF SCHOOL-BASED HEALTH CENTERS
The Council works to improve both health and education for students who receive services from school-based health centers. To advance these purposes, the Council seeks to integrate school-based health centers into State and local health care systems and educational systems (Code Health-General Article, sec. 19-22A-05).
Twenty-two members constitute the Council. sixteen members are appointed by the Governor, and six are nonvoting ex officio members. The Council elects the Chair to a two-year term (Chapters 605 & 608, Acts of 2021; Chapter 345, Acts of 2025; Code Health-General Article, secs. 19-22A-04 through 19-22A-08).
MARYLAND HEALTH CARE COMMISSION
In 1993, the Maryland Health Care Commission originated as the Maryland Health Care Access and Cost Commission, an independent body created by the General Assembly within the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (Chapter 9, Acts of 1993). Assuming functions of the former State Health Resources Planning Commission, it reorganized in 1999 as the Maryland Health Care Commission, and was placed under Regulatory Programs in August 2005 (Chapter 702, Acts of 1999). In June 2025, the Commission was moved under the Deputy Chief of Staff.
To provide all Marylanders with financial and geographic access to quality health care at a reasonable cost, the Commission promotes a health regulatory system.
Strategies to limit health care costs and extend health care access for all Marylanders are developed by the Commission. The Commission also formulates a uniform set of benefits for the comprehensive standard health benefit plan; devises a payment system for health care services; and fosters development of practice parameters. Moreover, the Commission facilitates public disclosure of medical claims data for the development of public policy; maintains and analyzes a medical care database on health care provided by health care practitioners; and ensures the use of that database as a primary means to compile data and annually report on trends, variances, and comparisons regarding fees for service, cost of care, and malpractice. Additionally, the Commission encourages the development of clinical resource management systems that permit cost comparisons between various treatment settings and making available information to consumers, providers, and purchasers of health care. It also sets standards for the operation and licensing of medical care electronic claims clearinghouses; and reduces the costs of submitting and administering claims for health care practitioners and payors.
To evaluate the quality and performance of health maintenance organizations (HMOs) operating in Maryland, the Commission has developed a system based on clinical standards and a consumer survey. Each fall since October 1997, an annual report is issued enabling employers and employees to compare the quality of care and services provided by Maryland HMOs, and make informed choices about health care plans.
In July 2006, the Commission organized its work under five centers: Health Care Financing and Health Policy; Health Information Technology; Hospital Services; Information Services and Analysis; and Long-Term and Community-Based Services. In July 2013, the Commission restructured with four centers: Analysis and Information Systems; Health Care Facilities Planning and Development; Health Information Technology and Innovative Care Delivery; and Quality and Reporting.
In September 2008, the Center for Health Care Financing and Health Policy began enrolling participants in the Health Insurance Partnership, which assists small businesses in providing health insurance to their employees (Chapter 7, Acts of 2007 Special Session).
Since October 2013, the Commission has been charged with establishing five palliative-care pilot programs in hospitals with at least fifty beds. From data collected through these pilot programs, the Commission will recommend standards and regulations for expanding palliative care services in hospitals statewide (Code Health-General Article, sec. 19-308.9).
In July 2026, the Workgroup on Behavioral Health Rate Methodology Modernization formed under the Commission.
With Senate advice and consent, the Governor appoints the Commission's fifteen members to four-year terms. The Governor also names the Chair. With the Governor's approval, the Executive Director is appointed by the Commission (Chapters 38 & 39, Acts of 2026; Code Health-General Article, secs. 19-101 through 19-227).
Formerly in the Metro Executive Office Building at 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, the Commission moved to Reisterstown Road Plaza at 4160 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, in 2001.
The Workgroup is to review and analyze cost drivers for outpatient behavioral health services. To evaluate outpatient mental health service costs in Maryland, the Workgroup will use the federally required certified community behavioral health clinic cost study as the baseline dataset. The Workgroup is to approve methodologies for analyzing outpatient costs and the Maryland Department of Health’s independent cost–driven, rate–setting study to set community provider rates for community–based behavioral health services. Further, the Workgroup will evaluate reimbursement methodologies used in other states and federal demonstration programs; and develop one or more cost–based, rate–setting methodologies applicable to certified community behavioral health clinics, outpatient mental health centers, and independent outpatient providers. Moreover, the Workgroup is to ensure that all recommended methodologies comply with both federal Medicaid financing rules and the Medicaid Upper Payment Limit, and provide recommendations on strategies to implement the recommended methodologies while remaining compliant with federal requirements. In addition, the Workgroup will identify any regulatory or statutory barriers to statewide implementation of cost–based, rate–setting methodologies; and propose options for phased statewide implementation of cost–based, rate–setting methodologies when fiscal conditions allow.
Sixteen members constitute the Workgroup.
To the Governor and General Assembly, the Workgroup will submit an interim report by June 1, 2027, and a final report by December 1, 2027.
Authorization for the Workgroup ends June 30, 2028.
CENTER FOR ANALYSIS & INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Special Projects oversees priority initiatives within the Center for Analysis and Information Systems.
STATE HEALTH SERVICES COST REVIEW COMMISSION
In 1971, the General Assembly started the State Health Services Cost Review Commission to monitor all fiscal affairs of Maryland's hospitals and related institutions (Chapter 627, Acts of 1971). In August 2005, the Commission was placed under Regulatory Programs, and transferred to the Deputy Chief of Staff in June 2025.
The Commission publicly may disclose a hospital's financial position, its verified total costs incurred in rendering health services, and the level of reasonableness of its rates as determined by Commission review and certification. The Commission also evaluates the adequacy of each institution's financial resources. When these resources are inadequate, the Commission seeks solutions.
For purchasers of hospital health care, the Commission assures that total costs are reasonable, aggregate rates are set in relation to a hospital's aggregate costs, and rates are set equitably.
In January 2015, the Commission reorganized its functions under four centers: Clinical and Financial Information, Engagement and Alignment, Population-Based Methodologies, and Revenue and Compliance.
In late 2018, the Commission restructured under five centers: Administration; Medical Economics and Data Analytics; Payment Reform and Provider Alignment; Population-Based Methodologies; and Revenue and Compliance.
The Commission consists of seven members appointed to four-year terms by the Governor, who names the chair. With the approval of the Governor, the Commission appoints the Executive Director (Code Health-General Article, secs. 19-201 through 19-227).
Formerly in the Metro Executive Office Building at 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, the Commission moved to Reisterstown Road Plaza at 4160 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, in November 2001.
Assisting the State Health Services Cost Review Commission is the Advisory Council on the Implementation of Population-based and Patient-centered Payment Systems.
The Council works to implement the new system and its design by providing a forum for discussion and debate. Through the Council, those affected by the models - hospitals, insurers, providers, and patients - will help develop the guiding principles for the new payment system and its implementation.
In January 2017, Maryland's Office of Overdose Response began as the Opioid Operational Command Center created by the Governor under the Interagency Heroin and Opioid Coordinating Council (Executive Order 01.01.2017.01). In December 2023, the Governor replaced the Opioid Operational Command Center with the Office of Overdose Response established within the Maryland Department of Health (Executive Order 01.01.2023.21).
Maryland's Office of Overdose Response facilitates statewide coordination of overdose prevention and response efforts with State, county and Baltimore City agencies. It coordinates the interagency process to develop the Governor's policy agenda for overdose prevention and response programs, and initiatives; and conducts and coordinates public outreach on behalf of the Governor to encourage greater involvement and participation by community organizations and constituent groups. Moreover, the Office supports local jurisdictions through grant funds to their Overdose Prevention Teams; and helps identify funding for State and local agencies and community organizations to implement initiatives that further the State's goal of reducing overdose morbidity and mortality. The Office also coordinates and consults across State government on matters relating to overdose prevention and response initiatives; communicates and cooperates with federal and local governments on all overdose-related concerns; and recommends ways to to enhance intergovernmental prevention and response efforts. In addition, the Office coordinates and facilitates data sharing among State and local sources while maintaining the privacy and security of sensitive personal information; and provides staff to the Maryland Overdose Response Advisory Council.
Appointed by the Governor, the Special Secretary of Overdose Response directs the daily operation and administration of the Office; serves as a coordinating liaison to the Maryland Overdose Response Advisory Council; provides advice and recommendations to the Governor on matters related to overdose; and coordinates with federal and local governments to strengthen overdose prevention and response programs and initiatives.
Under the Assistant Secretary for External Affairs
and Stakeholder Engagement are the Health Occupations Boards and two offices: Communications, and Constituent Services.
HEALTH OCCUPATIONS BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
Health Occupations Boards and Commissions began as the Division of Boards and Commissions. The Division reorganized in 1986 as the Office of Boards and Commission Programs and, in 1993, was renamed Health Professional Boards and Commissions. In August 2005, it was placed under Regulatory Programs, and renamed Health Occupations Boards and Commissions in 2018. In June 2025, Health Occupations Boards and COmmissions moved under the Assistant Secretary External Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement.
This office is responsible for the examination, licensing, regulation, and surveillance of health professionals in Maryland.
Under Health Occupations Boards and Commissions are the Office of Appointments and Executive Nominations, the State Commission on Kidney Disease, and twenty licensing and regulatory boards:
State Acupuncture Board
The Office of Appointments and Executive Nominations recruits and screens candidates for those health regulatory boards and commissions, task forces, and citizen advisory boards whose members are appointed by the Governor or the Secretary of Health.
STATE ACUPUNCTURE BOARD
In 1994, the State Acupuncture Board was created (Chapter 620, Acts of 1994).
To protect consumers, the Board licenses persons wishing to practice acupuncture in Maryland. Further, the Board registers auricular detoxification specialists, and certifies persons performing acupuncture on animals. The Board provides information about the licensure procedure, fees, continuing education requirements, and new trends in acupuncture and Oriental medicine to both applicants for licenses and the public. Consumers may make inquiries to the Board regarding licensed acupuncturists and also file complaints.
The Board consists of seven members. They are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 387, Acts of 2024; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 1A-101 through 1A-502).
STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS FOR AUDIOLOGISTS, HEARING AID DISPENSERS, SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS, & MUSIC THERAPISTS
From three separate boards, the State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, and Speech-Language Pathologists originated. The first was the Board of Examiners for Hearing Aid Dealers, formed in 1969 and placed within the Department of Licensing and Regulation in 1970 (Chapter 634, Acts of 1969; Chapter 402, Acts of 1970). The other two boards - the State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, and the Board of Examiners for Speech Pathologists - both started in 1972 within the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (Chapter 547, Acts of 1972). In 1987, the speech pathologists' board was renamed the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathologists (Chapter 478, Acts of 1987). All three boards merged in 1992 to become the State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dealers, and Speech-Language Pathologists within the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (Chapter 326, Acts of 1992). In 1993, the Board was renamed the State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, and Speech-Language Pathologists (Chapter 448, Acts of 1993). Under the Maryland Department of Health, the Board reformed, effective October 1, 2021 as the State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, Speech-Language Pathologists, and Music Therapists (Chapter 800, Acts of 2021).
The Board licenses audiologists, hearing aid dispensers, and speech-language pathologists.
Fifteen members constitute the Board. They are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor on recommendation of the Secretary of Health.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2031 (Chapter 93, Acts of 2014; Chapters 31 & 32, Acts of 2025; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 2-101 through 2-502).
STATE BOARD FOR CERTIFICATION OF RESIDENTIAL CHILD-CARE PROGRAM PROFESSIONALS
In October 2004, the State Board for Certification of Residential Child-Care Program Administrators was established (Chapter 438, Acts of 2004). In October 2008, it was restructured as the State Board for Certification of Residential Child-Care Program Professionals (Chapter 218, Acts of 2008).
Since October 2007, administrators of residential child-care programs have been required to be certified by the Board. Since October 1, 2015, residential and child youth care practitioners also are required to be certified by the Board (Chapter 583, Acts of 2010).
Residential child-care programs provide 24-hour per day care within a structured set of services and activities designed to achieve specific objectives for the children, including provision of food, clothing, shelter, education, social services, health, mental health, recreation, or any combination of these.
The Board's eleven members are appointed to four-year terms. The Governor appoints six members with Senate advice and consent, and the Secretary of Health appoints two. One each is appointed by the Secretary of Human Services, the Secretary of Juvenile Services, and the State Superintendent of Schools (Chapter 702, Acts of 2022).
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 54, Acts of 2023; Chapter 388, Acts of 2024; Code Health Occupations Article, sec. 20-501).
STATE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS
In 1920, the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners formed (Chapter 666, Acts of 1920). In October 2008, it was restructured as the State Board of Chiropractic and Massage Therapy Examiners (Chapter 243, Acts of 2008). In October 2016, the Board reformed under its first name to focus solely on chiropractors when those concerned with massage therapy formed a separate board (Chapter 739, Acts of 2016).
Each person holding a chiropractic license in Maryland must renew it every two years with the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
The Board examines applicants for licenses to practice as chiropractors, investigates complaints, and (in consultation with the Office of Attorney General) conducts disciplinary proceedings as necessary. Each year, the Board holds three examinations. It also ascertains whether schools of chiropractic meet the requirements of the law (Chapters 21 & 22, Acts of 2025).
Seven members make up the Board. They are appointed by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Senate advice and consent. Members serve four-year terms.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2032 (Chapter 133, Acts of 2010; Chapter 122, Acts of 2021; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 3-201 through 3-602).
STATE BOARD OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS & THERAPISTS
The State Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists originated in 1985 as the State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors (Chapter 734, Acts of 1985). The Board adopted its present name in October 2000 (Chapter 358, Acts of 2000), and was reorganized in October 2008 (Chapter 505, Acts of 2008). The Board licenses professional counselors and therapists, and regulates their services within the State.
In 1998, the General Assembly provided for licensure of three categories of counselors offering clinical counseling: licensed clinical professional counselor; licensed clinical marriage and family therapist; and licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (Chapter 132, Acts of 1998). In 2008, three more categories were added: graduate alcohol and drug counselor; graduate marriage and family therapist; and graduate professional counselor (Chapter 505, Acts of 2008). These new categories allow an individual to practice counseling under the supervision of a licensed counselor or therapist if they have completed all other requirements for licensure but still need the 2,000 hours of supervised experience.
Since 2013, the Board is charged with licensing professional art therapists (Chapters 628 & 629, Acts of 2012), and since January 1, 2015, the Board also is charged with licensing behavior analysts (Chapter 328, Acts of 2014).
With the advice of the Secretary of Health, the Governor appoints the Board's thirteen members to four-year terms. Since 1997, the Governor also has been authorized to appoint an advisor to the Board (Chapter 461, Acts of 1997).
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2028 (Chapters 756 & 757, Acts of 2018; Chapters 158 & 159, Acts of 2020; Chapters 31 & 32, Acts of 2025; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 17-101 through 17-502).
To improve and expedite the licensing and certification process for alcohol and drug counselors and alcohol and drug trainees, the Subcommittee evaluates the process and makes recommendations to the State Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. Alcohol and drug trainee is a status, not a certificate or license for which entry-level trainees must submit an application to the Board.
Ways to improve disciplinary processes are recommended by the Subcommittee, which assists the Board in drafting regulations pertaining to alcohol and drug counselors and alcohol and drug trainees.
BEHAVIOR ANALYST ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Advisory Committee develops regulations, a code of ethics, licensure requirements, and continuing education requirements for behavior analysts, who, since January 1, 2015, must be licensed by the State Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists to practice in Maryland (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 17-6A-01 through 17-6A-31).
Authorization for the Committee ends July 1, 2028 (Chapters 31 & 32, Acts of 2025).
STATE BOARD OF DENTAL EXAMINERS
Established in 1884, the State Board of Dental Examiners regulates the practice of dentistry by testing the qualifications of candidates for licenses in dentistry and in dental hygiene (Chapter 150, Acts of 1884).
All applicants for license to practice dentistry must be graduates of accredited dental colleges authorized to grant degrees in dental surgery by the laws of one of the United States or a province of Canada. For a license to practice dental hygiene, all applicants must be graduates of a school for dental hygienists that requires at least two years of study and is approved by the State Board of Dental Examiners. Examinations, held twice a year, are both written and practical. Every two years, dentists and dental hygienists must renew their licenses to practice.
Dental radiation technologists also are certified by the Board. An individual may not practice dental radiation technology in Maryland unless certified by the Board.
The Governor appoints the Board's sixteen members for four-year terms with the advice of the Secretary of Health. Three consumer members are appointed with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Senate advice and consent.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2031 (Chapter 548, Acts of 2020; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 4-101 through 4-702).
STATE BOARD OF DIETETIC PRACTICE
To protect the public by setting standards for the practice of dietetics in Maryland, the State Board of Dietetic Practice was authorized in 1985 (Chapter 773, Acts of 1985).
The Board licenses dietitians and nutritionists in Maryland, sets standards for the practice of dietetics, and develops and enforces regulations. Licenses to practice dietetics must be renewed with the Board every two years.
Nine members constitute the Board. They are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 211, Acts of 2013; Chapter 389, Acts of 2024; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 5-101 through 5-502).
STATE BOARD OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALISTS
The State Board of Environmental Health Specialists originated in 1969 as the Board of Sanitarian Registration within the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (Chapter 434, Acts of 1969). In 1984, the Board was renamed the State Board of Environmental Sanitarian Registration (Chapter 560, Acts of 1984). It transferred to the Department of the Environment in 1987 (Chapter 306, Acts of 1987). In 1989, the Board reformed as the State Board of Environmental Sanitarians (Chapter 151, Acts of 1989). Placed under the Water Management Administration in 1992, the Board was made part of the Office of Operational Services and Administration in 1997. In July 2012, the Board transferred to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (now Maryland Department of Health) as the State Board of Environmental Health Specialists (Chapter 667, Acts of 2012).
Qualified applicants are licensed as registered environmental health specialists by the State Board of Environmental Health Specialists. The Board also issues certificates of eligibility to applicants awaiting examination. Environmental health specialists are concerned with environmental effects on public health. They promote environmental health and maintain it by securing compliance with public health laws and regulations. They inspect and investigate the manufacture, preparation, handling, distribution, or sale of food and milk; water supply and treatment; wastewater treatment and disposal; solid waste management and disposal; vector control; insect and rodent control; air quality; noise control; product safety; recreational sanitation; and institutional and residential sanitation.
Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and with Senate advice and consent, the Governor appoints the Board's nine members to four-year terms.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2032 (Chapter 359, Acts of 2016; Chapters 135 & 136, Acts of 2026; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 21-201 through 21-206).
STATE COMMISSION ON KIDNEY DISEASE
In 1971, the State Commission on Kidney Disease was authorized (Chapter 492, Acts of 1971).
The Commission oversees a program of State assistance throughout Maryland for persons with chronic renal disease.
Information on the treatment of chronic renal disease in the State is gathered and disseminated by the Commission. It also sets physical and medical standards for the operation of dialysis and renal transplantation centers, and sets standards for the acceptance of a patient into the treatment phase of such programs. Patients accepted for treatment are eligible for State medical assistance. For the public and providers of health services, the Commission also institutes and supervises educational programs on kidney disease and its treatment and prevention.
The Governor appoints the Commission's twelve members to four-year terms. The Commission selects the Executive Director (Code Health-General Article, secs. 13-301 through 13-316).
STATE BOARD OF LONG-TERM CARE ADMINISTRATORS
In 1970, the State Board of Long-Term Care Administrators started as the State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators, authorized in the Department by the General Assembly (Chapter 262, Acts of 1970). In October 2022, the Board adopted its present name (Chapter 689, Acts of 2022).
The Board examines, licenses, and regulates nursing home administrators. Licenses must be renewed with the Board every two years. They may be revoked or suspended for cause. The Board also studies nursing homes and their administrators to improve licensing standards and enforcement procedures.
Seventeen members constitute the Board. Thirteen members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health, and two consumers are appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. A representative of the Office of Health Care Quality serves ex officio as does the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman. The Governor names the Chair and Vice-Chair (Chapter 24, Acts of 2011; Chapter 59, Acts of 2015; Chapter 689, Acts of 2022; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 9-101 through 9-501).
STATE BOARD OF MASSAGE THERAPY EXAMINERS
The State Board of Massage Therapy Examiners began in 2008 as the State Board of Chiropractic and Massage Therapy Examiners (Chapter 243, Acts of 2008). In October 2016, that board was divided into two separate boards - one concerned with chiropractors and another focused on massage therapists. At that time, the State Board of Massage Therapy Examiners was created (Chapter 739, Acts of 2016).
To practice massage therapy in Maryland, an individual must be licensed by or registered with the State Board of Massage Therapy Examiners (Chapters 191 & 192, Acts of 2026).
Nine members make up the Board. They are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Senate advice and consent.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2031 (Chapters 31 & 32, Acts of 2025; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 6-201 through 6-208).
STATE BOARD OF MORTICIANS & FUNERAL DIRECTORS
In 1902, the State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors was established as the State Board of Undertakers of Maryland (Chapter 160, Acts of 1902). Renamed the State Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers in 1937, the Board became the State Board of Morticians in 1981 (Chapter 8, Acts of 1981). The Board received its present name in October 2007 (Chapters 186, Acts of 2007), and reorganized in 2008 (Chapter 583, Acts of 2008).
The State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors regulates the funeral industry in Maryland.
Every funeral director and mortician in Maryland must register with and procure a license from the Board. The Board sets the standards for the practice of mortuary science in the State and examines applicants for licensure. Every two years, the Board renews licenses and has the power to suspend or revoke any license. The Board makes regulations for the enforcement of laws regarding funeral directing and mortuary science.
In July 2026, the General Assembly transferred the authority to regulate certain crematories and reduction facilities from the Office of Cemetery Oversight within the Maryland Department of Labor to the State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors (Chapters 187 & 188, Acts of 2026).
Administered by the Board, the Family Security Trust Fund was created in January 2009 (Chapter 532, Acts of 2008; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 7-4A-01 through 7-4A-13). The Fund was established to reimburse consumers for certain losses related to pre-need contracts, regulation of crematories, and establishment of procedures for handling and transporting human remains.
Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and with Senate consent, the Governor appoints the Board's eleven members to four-year terms.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2028 (Chapters 823 & 824, Acts of 2017; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 7-101 through 7-702).
The Committee consists of five members. Three of these are appointed by the State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors. One member is designated by the Maryland State Funeral Directors Association, and one by the Funeral Directors and Morticians Association of Maryland, Inc. Members serve four-year terms.
STATE BOARD OF NURSING
The State Board of Nursing began as the State Board of Examiners of Nurses in 1904 (Chapter 172, Acts of 1904). It adopted its present name in 1987 (Chapter 109, Acts of 1987).
To assure safe, competent nursing care for the public, the State Board of Nursing regulates the practice of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, nurse psychotherapists, nursing assistants, and direct-entry midwives. The Board administers licensure examinations and issues licenses to those who successfully complete requirements and examinations. The Board evaluates, monitors, and approves nursing education programs; enforces the standards and defines the scope of nursing; approves refresher programs; and assesses and evaluates trends in nursing. Through its investigative unit, the Board also investigates any complaint alleging violation of the Nurse Practice Act by a nurse, conducts hearings, and takes disciplinary action as required. Such action may include emergency suspension, revocation of license, denial of licensure, probation, or fine.
With the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, the Board cooperates in the preparation of the examination used for licensure. The Board also works with health care facilities, educational institutions, professional organizations, the Maryland Higher Education Commission, the State Board of Education, the Department of Aging, county health departments, local school systems, and Department agencies.
Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health, the Governor appoints the Board's fourteen members for four-year terms. Two members are consumers appointed with Senate advice and consent.
Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2030 (Chapter 621, Acts of 2012; Chapter 223, Acts of 2023; Chapter 416, Acts of 2025; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 8-101 through 8-802).
The State Board of Nursing is assisted by four committees: Certified Nursing Assistant Advisory, Direct-Entry Midwifery Advisory, Electrology Practice, and Safe Practice.
The Committee advises the State Board of Nursing on applications for nursing assistant certification, approval of training programs for nursing assistants, and discipline of nursing assistants and medication technicians.
Fifteen members constitute the Committee. They are appointed to four-year terms by the State Board of Nursing (Code Health Occupations Article, sec. 8-6A-13).
DIRECT-ENTRY MIDWIFERY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Committee advises the State Board of Nursing on issues relating to the practice of direct-entry midwifery.
A direct-entry midwife is an independent practitioner who has entered the profession through self-training, apprenticeship, and certification programs not affiliated with the practice of nursing. By December 2016, the State Board of Nursing was required to adopt regulations to license direct-entry midwives and the practice of direct-entry midwifery in Maryland.
The Committee's seven members are appointed by the State Board of Nursing to four-year terms.
ELECTROLOGY PRACTICE COMMITTEE
The Committee adopts and revises standards of electrology practice for registered electrologists and prescribes standards for educational programs leading to licensure. It examines and licenses qualified applicants. The Committee also conducts hearings on charges calling for discipline of a licensed electrologist by penalty, denial, revocation, or suspension of a license, and causes the prosecution of all persons in violation of the Electrology Practice Act.
Three members comprise the Committee. They are appointed to four-year terms by the State Board of Nursing.
Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2025 (Chapter 573, Acts of 2011; Chapter 154, Acts of 2014; Chapters 222 & 223, Acts of 2023; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 8-6B-01 through 8-6B-29).
SAFE PRACTICE COMMITTEE
Nurses whose job performance is impaired by drugs, alcohol, or mental illness may participate in the Safe Practice Program upon recommendation of the Committee.
The State Board of Nursing selects the Committee's six members. Three are licensed registered nurses with expertise in the field of substance use disorders or psychiatric nursing. One member is a registered nurse, who has demonstrated expertise in pain management; one is a licensed practical nurse; and one, a consumer knowledgeable in the field of substance use disorders (Code Health Occupations Article, sec. 8-208).
STATE BOARD OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PRACTICE
Created in 1978, the State Board of Occupational Therapy Practice administers, coordinates, and enforces the provisions of the Maryland Occupational Therapy Practice Act (Chapter 909, Acts of 1978).
The Board evaluates the qualifications of applicants for licensure and supervises the examination of applicants. It keeps a current list of licensed occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants. Licenses must be renewed every two years and may be revoked or suspended for cause.
With the advice of the Secretary of Health, the Governor appoints the Board's seven members to four-year terms. The Board selects the Executive Director.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 390, Acts of 2024; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 10-201 through 10-502).
STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN OPTOMETRY
In 1914, the State Board of Examiners in Optometry was formed.
Optometry laws of the State are administered by the Board, which regulates the practice of optometry (Chapter 652, Acts of 1914). It examines, licenses, and registers applicants, and may revoke any certificate of registration or examination for just cause.
The Board consists of seven persons appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon the recommendation of the Secretary of Health from nominees of the Maryland Optometric Association. Two members are consumers appointed by the Governor on recommendation of the Secretary of Health with Senate advice and consent.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 236, Acts of 2010; Chapter 53, Acts of 2023; Chapter 391, Acts of 2024; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 11-101 through 11-602).
STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY
The State Board of Pharmacy was created in 1902.
By examination and reciprocity, the Board licenses pharmacists (Chapter 179, Acts of 1902). It also conducts a biennial re-registration program for pharmacists. The Board issues permits for the operation of retail pharmacies and for the manufacture of drugs, medicines, toilet articles, dentifrices, and cosmetics. The Board also licenses jobbers, distributors, and wholesalers or manufacturers of prescription drugs. In cooperation with the Maryland Department of Health, the Board enforces the pharmacy and drug laws of the State.
All pharmacies or other places where prescriptions, medicines, drugs, drug products, or domestic remedies are compounded or sold are inspected by Board members and duly authorized agents of the Maryland Department of Health. They also inspect prescriptions, medicines, drugs, drug products, or domestic products offered for sale. Pharmacists are required to keep in their places of business, for a period of not less than five years, a file of every prescription compounded or dispensed.
Annually, the State Board of Pharmacy meets with the State Board of Physicians and the State Board of Nursing to determine what vaccines may be administered by pharmacists and to develop and review regulations for administering such vaccines (Chapter 304, Acts of 2009).
The Board's thirteen members include ten licensed pharmacists, one registered pharmacy technician, and two consumers. All are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Health. The Board may designate an executive director.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 218, Acts of 2023; Chapters 31 & 32, Acts of 2025; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 12-101 through 12-802).
STATE BOARD OF PHYSICAL THERAPY EXAMINERS
In June 1947, the State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners was authorized by the General Assembly (Chapter 906, Acts of 1947).
Licensed by the State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, physical therapists and physical therapist assistants are individuals, who practice physical therapy and who have passed the national physical therapy licensing examination administered or accepted by the Board. Adopted by the Board are rules, regulations, standards of practice, and a code of ethics. For any alleged violations of the Maryland Physical Therapy Act, the Board also presents evidence and investigates the allegations.
In October 2019, Maryland joined the Interstate Physical Therapy Licensure Compact Commission (Chapter 374, Acts of 2019). The Commission allows physical therapists licensed in a member state to practice in other member states under certain conditions. Physical therapy occurs in the state where the patient or client is located at the time of the session.
The Board's nine members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor with advice of the Secretary of Health. Two consumer members are named with Senate advice and consent (Chapters 352 & 353, Acts of 2025).
Subject to the evaluation and reestablishment provisions of the Maryland Program Evaluation Act, authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 52, Acts of 2023; Chapter 392, Acts of 2024; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 13-101 through 13-502).
STATE BOARD OF PHYSICIANS
In Maryland, authority to license physicians was granted first to the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of the State of Maryland in their charter of 1798 (Chapter 105, Acts of 1798). From 1798 to 1838, the Faculty examined candidates, issued licenses upon payment of a fee, and prosecuted unlicensed doctors. The petitions of botanic medical practitioners influenced the legislature to pass a law in 1838 allowing any person to collect fees for medical services performed, which effectively ended the licensing of doctors for fifty years in Maryland (Chapter 281, Acts of 1838).
In 1888, the State Board of Health began to license all physicians (Chapter 429, Acts of 1888). By 1892, two boards of medical examiners carried on this function. One represented the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty and the other the State Homeopathic Society (Chapter 296, Acts of 1892). The General Assembly in 1957 abolished the Homeopathic Board and set up the State Board of Medical Examiners to regulate the practice of medicine. In 1968, responsibility for disciplining licensed physicians was assigned to the Commission on Medical Discipline of Maryland (Chapter 469, Acts of 1968). Functions of both the State Board of Medical Examiners and the Commission on Medical Discipline of Maryland combined in 1988 under the State Board of Physician Quality Assurance (Chapter 109, Acts of 1988). The Board reformed in 2003 as the State Board of Physicians (Chapter 252, Acts of 2003).
The State Board of Physicians tests and licenses physicians to practice medicine in Maryland. The Board determines the eligibility of physicians to represent themselves as specialists. For certain causes, the Board may revoke the license of any physician. The Board also registers residents and x-ray assistants. In addition, the Board certifies or licenses seven categories of allied health practitioners, including physician assistants, respiratory care practitioners, medical radiation technologists, nuclear medical technologists, polysomniographic technologists, radiation therapists, and radiologist assistants. With the State Board of Nursing, the Board reviews written agreements between physicians and nurse practitioners and nurse midwives.
To determine eligibility for initial medical licensure, the Board administers the United States Medical Licensing Examination. The Board also administers the Special Purpose Examination of the Federation of State Medical Boards to some applicants and licensees to determine if they have remained competent practitioners after an absence from practicing medicine.
For certain cases, the Board may take disciplinary action, including revocation, suspension, reprimand, or probation, and may fine a licensee. Where there is an imminent threat to the public, the Board may issue an emergency suspension of a license. In an effort to prevent misconduct, the Board operates a speaker's bureau, and conducts educational programs and training sessions on certain high-risk behavioral areas. Quarterly, the Board issues a newsletter with a lead article of topical interest to the medical community as well as information about Board acts or sanctions.
The Board works closely with state and local law-enforcement agencies, as well as federal agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Office of Inspector General. Since 1977, the Board has participated in the network of state disciplinary information bank of the Federation of State Medical Boards. Since 1990, the Board has served as a conduit of disciplinary information between Maryland hospitals and the National Practitioners Data Bank.
Two disciplinary panels, each consisting of eleven Board members, work to resolve allegations which would require disciplinary action against a licensed physician or an allied health professional (Chapter 401, Acts of 2013).
Composed of twenty-two members, the Board is appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent to four-year terms. The Governor names the chair to a two-year term.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 681, Acts of 2012; Chapter 401, Acts of 2013; Chapter 218, Acts of 2017; Chapter 419, Acts of 2019; Chapters 612 & 613, Acts of 2020; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 14-101 through 15-502).
The Athletic Trainer Advisory Committee was authorized in October 2009.
To the State Board of Physicians, the Committee develops and makes recommendations concerning licensure of athletic trainers. The Committee advises the Board on regulations for the practice of athletic training, continuing education requirements, and evaluation and treatment protocols.
The Committee's nine members are appointed by the State Board of Physicians to three-year terms. Every two years, the Committee elects a chair.
Authorization for the Committee extends to July 1, 2030 (Chapter 218, Acts of 2017; Chapter 419, Acts of 2019; Chapters 612 & 613, Acts of 2020; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 14-5F-32).
NATUROPATHIC DOCTORS FORMULARY COUNCIL
The Council is to develop and annually review a formulary of drugs and devices that licensed naturopathic doctors may prescribe. Based on the Council's recommendations, the State Board of Physicians is to adopt a formulary.
Six members of the Council are appointed by the State Board of Physicians to four-year terms. One member serves ex officio (Code Health Occupations Article, sec. 14-5F-04.1).
NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Naturopathic medicine is the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of human health conditions, injury, and disease using only patient education and naturopathic therapies and therapeutic substances recognized by the Council of Naturopathic Medical Education.
In October 2014, the Naturopathic Medicine Advisory Committee was established by the State Board of Physicians to develop and recommend regulations; procedures for reciprocity licensing; examination standards; a naturopathic medicine code of ethics; and continuing education requirements for license renewal (Chapter 153, Acts of 2014; Health Occupations Article, secs. 14-5F-06 through 14-5F-09).
Authorization for the Committee ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 218, Acts of 2017; Chapter 419, Acts of 2019; Chapters 612 & 613, Acts of 2020; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 14-5F-32).
PERFUSION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Since October 1, 2013, individuals must be licensed to practice perfusion in Maryland.
A perfusionist operates and monitors equipment which performs the functions of a patient's heart and lungs, usually during open-heart surgery.
The Committee develops and recommends regulations, a code of ethics, standards of care, and continuing education requirements for the practice of perfusion in Maryland.
Appointed to three-year terms by the State Board of Physicians, seven members constitute the Committee. Every two years, the Committee selects a chair.
Authorization for the Committee ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 218, Acts of 2017; Chapter 419, Acts of 2019; Chapters 612 & 613, Acts of 2020; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 14-5E-06 through 14-5E-25).
PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Committee recommends to the State Board of Physicians, regulations for the certification of physician assistants. To the Board, it also recommends the approval, modification, or disapproval of an application for certification. The Committee may report to the Board any alleged unauthorized practice of a physician assistant, or any conduct of a supervising physician or a physician assistant that may be cause for disciplinary action.
To perform delegated medical acts, a physician assistant must obtain an approved delegation agreement from the State Board of Physicians. The Committee evaluates the qualifications of the physician assistant for delegated medical acts to be performed under that agreement and recommends that the Board approve, modify, or reject the application for a delegation agreement. The Board, on review of the Committee's recommendation, may approve, modify, or disapprove a delegation agreement for good cause.
The Committee's seven members are appointed to three-year terms by the State Board of Physicians.
Authorization for the Committee ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 218, Acts of 2017; Chapters 612 & 613, Acts of 2020; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 15-101 through 15-502).
POLYSOMNOGRAPHY PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS COMMITTEE
The State Board of Physicians appoints the Committee's seven members to three-year terms.
Authorization for the Committee ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 401, Acts of 2013; Chapter 218, Acts of 2017; Chapter 419, Acts of 2019; Chapters 612 & 613, Acts of 2020; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 14-5C-25).
RADIATION THERAPY, RADIOGRAPHY, NUCLEAR MEDICINE TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY , & RADIOLOGY ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE
The Committee reviews and makes recommendations to the State Board of Physicians on all applications for licensing of nuclear medical technologists, radiation therapists, radiographers, and radiologist assistants. To the Board, the Committee also recommends the approval, modification, or disapproval of applications for licensure. In addition, the Committee recommends to the Board regulations governing such practice (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 14-5B-05 through 14-5B-21).
Appointed to three-year terms by the State Board of Physicians, nine members constitute the Committee.
Authorization for the Committee ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 401, Acts of 2013; Chapter 218, Acts of 2017; Chapter 419, Acts of 2019; Chapters 612 & 613, Acts of 2020).
RESPIRATORY-CARE PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS COMMITTEE
The Committee advises the State Board of Physicians on regulations governing the practice of respiratory care, and the approval, modification, or disapproval of an application for certification. The Committee refers to the Board any allegation of unauthorized practice by a respiratory care practitioner or conduct by a supervising physician or respiratory care practitioner that may be cause for disciplinary action.
The Committee's seven members are appointed to three-year terms by the State Board of Physicians. Every two years the Committee elects a chair.
Authorization for the Committee ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 218, Acts of 2017; Chapter 419, Acts of 2019; Chapters 612 & 613, Acts of 2020; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 14-5A-01 through 14-5A-25).
STATE BOARD OF PODIATRIC MEDICAL EXAMINERS
The State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners commenced in 1916 as the State Board of Chiropody Examiners (Chapter 173, Acts of 1916). In 1965, it became the State Board of Podiatry Examiners (Chapter 416, Acts of 1965). The Board was renamed the State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners in 1986 (Chapter 243, Acts of 1986).
In Maryland, the practice of podiatry is regulated by the Board. The Board evaluates credentials, gives licensure examinations, issues licenses, renews licenses biennially, approves continuing education programs, monitors compliance of licensees with continuing education requirements, and investigates allegations of professional misconduct. After a hearing, the Board may revoke the license of any podiatrist charged with malpractice or unethical conduct.
The Governor appoints the Board's seven members to four-year terms with the advice of the Secretary of Health. Two are consumers appointed with Senate advice and consent.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2032 (Chapter 419, Acts of 2011; Chapter 123, Acts of 2021; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 16-101 through 16-602).
STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS OF PSYCHOLOGISTS
The practice of psychology in Maryland is regulated by the State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. Established in 1957, the Board evaluates the qualifications of psychologists in the State and issues licenses to those who fulfill the requirements (Chapter 748, Acts of 1957). Licenses must be renewed biennially. The Board administers examinations to qualified applicants for licensing twice each year.
Nine members compose the Board. They are appointed by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Senate advice and consent. Members serve four-year terms.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 574, Acts of 2011; Chapter 51, Acts of 2023; Chapter 393, Acts of 2024; Code Health Occupations Article, secs.18-101 through 18-502).
STATE BOARD OF SOCIAL WORK EXAMINERS
In 1975, the State Board of Social Work Examiners formed (Chapter 853, Acts of 1975).
The Board issues licenses to social work associates, graduate social workers, certified social workers, and certified social workers-clinical. Under certain conditions the Board may take disciplinary measures to reprimand, suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew the license of a licensee.
The Board's twelve members are appointed by the Governor to four-year terms. Two are consumers appointed on recommendation of the Secretary of Health with Senate advice and consent. The Board appoints the Executive Director.
Authorization for the Board ends July 1, 2030 (Chapter 228 Acts of 2023; Chapter 394, Acts of 2024; Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 19-201 through 19-502).
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
The Office of Communications directs public affairs of the Department and coordinates them with Departmental officials, local health officers, and the Governor's Office. The Office also arranges special events and disseminates employee information.
OFFICE OF CONSTITUENT SERVICES
Under the Assistant Secretary are the Center for Firearm Violence Prevention and Intervention, the Office of Rural Health, and Workforce Initiatives. The Assistant Secretary also oversees staff support for the Maryland Commission on Health Equity.
CENTER FOR FIREARM VIOLENCE PREVENTION & INTERVENTION
The Center works to reduce firearm violence, harm from firearm violence, and misuse of firearms in Maryland by partnering with federal, State, and local agencies and affected communities to implement a public health approach to firearm violence reduction. In consultation with the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy, the Department of State Police, and other State and local agencies, the Center takes a whole–of–government multidepartmental approach to reduce firearm violence (Code Health-General Article, secs. 13–5201 through 13–5205).
The Developmental Disabilities Administration started in 1966 as the Division of Mental Retardation within the Bureau of Preventive Medical Services of the Office of Medical Care Services. In 1970, the Division reformed into a Directorate of Mental Retardation from which the Mental Retardation Administration was created in 1971. The Administration was reorganized by the General Assembly in 1982 as the Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Administration (Chapter 430, Acts of 1982). In 1986, the Administration received its present name from the General Assembly (Chapter 637, Acts of 1986). It was placed under Behavioral Health and Disabilities in July 2008. In October 2014, the Administration separated from Behavioral Health and Disabilities, to come under direction of the Deputy Secretary for Developmental Disabilities (Chapter 539, Acts of 2014).
For persons with developmental disabilities and their families, the Developmental Disabilities Administration plans, develops, and directs a statewide system of services. Among the services are programs for individuals with intellectual disabilites, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, epilepsy, and severe communicative disorders. The Administration coordinates its work with other government, voluntary and private health, education and welfare agencies. These include private licensed Medicaid providers, not-for-profit licensed Medicaid providers, local health departments, and fiscal management agencies.
Residential facilities are operated by the Administration which also funds community-based services, such as purchased care, group homes and apartments, small residential centers, and daytime programs for developmentally disabled persons. In addition, the Administration funds Children's Summer Programs, Family and Individual Support Services, and Supported Employment Programs. Regional offices initiate, coordinate, and evaluate local programs (Code Health-General Article, secs. 7-101 through 7-1301).
The Developmental Disabilities Administration runs four regional offices throughout the State.
Serving the Administration are a citizens advisory board for each center, the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration Waiver Advisory Council, and the Mortality and Quality Review Committee.
The Council advises the Developmental Disabilities Administration on system design, service, and strategies for the Medicaid Waiver Programs of the Administration.
Forty-three members constitute the Council (Code Health-General Article, secs. 7-12B-01 through 7-12B-05).
MORTALITY & QUALITY REVIEW COMMITTEE
The Committee is concerned with the death of any person with developmental disabilities who, at the time of death, resided in or was receiving services from any program or facility licensed or operated by the Developmental Disabilities Administration, or operated by waiver. After the Office of Health Care Quality reviews each such death, the Office reports to the Committee which, in turn, examines the Office report. Annually, the Committee prepares a public summary report.
Appointed by the Secretary of Health, the Committee has eighteen members (Code Health-General Article, secs. 5-801 through 5-810).
Authorization for the Committee ends December 31, 2032 (Chapter 341, Acts of 2012; Chapter 221, Acts of 2022; Code Health-General Article, secs. 5-801 through 5-810).
Under the Division are eight units: Behavior Supports; Clinical Services; Coordination of Community Services; Cross-Systems Innovation; Innovations Division - Housing, Technology; Lifespan Support and Services; Meaningful Day and Employment; Nursing Services; and Provider Services.
BEHAVIOR SUPPORTS
LIFESPAN SUPPORT & SERVICES
Under Lifespan Support and Service are Children's Services and Family Supports.
Under Federal Programs and Integrity are four divisions: Eligibility; Policy Coordination; Quality Enhancement; and Self-Direction.
CENTRAL MARYLAND REGION
EASTERN SHORE REGION
SOUTHERN MARYLAND REGION
WESTERN MARYLAND REGION
In March 2019, Operations formed from the restructuring of Medicaid and Operations.
Headed by a Deputy Secretary, Operations is responsible for eight offices: Contract Management and Procurement; Data; Enterprise Technology; Facilities Management and Development; Finance; Human Resources; Information Security; and Secured Transport and Investigations Unit.
OFFICE OF CONTRACT MANAGEMENT & PROCUREMENT
The Office develops policies, procedures, and standards that govern how the Department procures and manages contracts, and ensures that those policies and procedures are disseminated and adhered to throughout the Department. Upon request, the Office serves in an advisory capacity to programs, and directly delivers procurement services for programs not certified to process or approve their own procurements. The Office also gives legal advice on procurement issues, and serves as the repository and clearinghouse for procurement and contract management information within the Department.
Within the Office are Contracts, and Procurement, as well as the Department's Socioeconomic Liaison.
OFFICE OF ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY
In May 2018, the Office became responsible for the Office of Systems, Operations, and Pharmacy, formerly under Health Care Financing, until it later moved to the Office of Provider Services.
The Office devises information-processing strategies and implements the policy, procedures, and controls required for automation programs. Security, systems analysis, programming and data communications, and training and computer operation services for the Department's information systems throughout the State are provided by the Office. These systems include the Electronic Vital Records System (EVRS); the Hospital Management Information System (HMIS); the National Electronic Disease Surveillance System (NEDSS); and the Medicaid Management Information System II (MMIS II). The Department's wide area network connects local health departments, hospitals, and health clinics with over 9,000 user connections across the State.
Under the Office are five units: Enterprise Applications; IT Delivery Services; Infrastructure; Portfolio Management; and Procurement, Finance and Human Resources.
OFFICE OF FACILITIES MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT
The Department's annual Executive Plan, the Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan, the Master Facilities Plan, and twenty individual facility plans are prepared by the Office of Facilities Planning and Development. Moreover, this Office is responsible for the Department's annual capital budget, real estate transactions, and bond bill submission. Internal policies and procedures also are developed and promulgated through Facilities Planning and Development. In addition, this Office conducts special studies requested by the General Assembly or the Secretary of Health.
Within the Office is the Central Services Division.
For the Department, the Division manages the Central Warehouse, building services, fleet management, forms management, inventory control, life safety, security, and telecommunications. The Division also oversees Records Management.
The Department's Records Officer develops and oversees the program, and serves as liaison to the Records Management Division of the Department of General Services, and to the State Archives (Chapter 539, Acts of 2017; Code State Government Article, secs. 10-608 through 10-611).
OFFICE OF FINANCE
The Office of Finance began as the Financial Planning Administration and became the Budget Management Office in 1997. In March 2004, it moved from Operations to the Chief Financial Officer within the Office of Secretary. As the Financial Management Administration, it moved to Operations in June 2007, and reorganized as the Budget Revenue Administration in November 2008. In February 2016, it became the Office of Finance. In February 2026, the Office separated from Budget Management and moved under the Chief of Staff.
Department financial affairs are monitored and controlled by the Office of Finance. Moreover, the Office also oversees four units: Cost Accounting and Reimbursements; Fiscal Services; General Accounting; and Program Cost and Analysis.
OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES
The Office of Human Resources started as the Office of Personnel Management. It became the Personnel Services Administration in 1988. On May 1, 2004, the Administration reformed as the Office of Human Resources. Under the Chief Operating Officer, the Office was made part of Enterprise Shared Services in January 2018. The Office transferred to the Chief of Staff in March 2019. Later, it transferred under Operations.
For the Department, the Office provides personnel services and training.
Under the Office are six divisions: Classification and Salary; Employee Relations; Employment Services; Recruitment Eligibility and Outreach; Timekeeping and Payroll; and Training Services.
OFFICE OF INFORMATION SECURITY
The Office oversees the Strategic Data Initiative.
In 1975, Health Care Financing began as the Office of Regulatory Services. By 1981, responsibilities of the Office were assigned to the Assistant Secretary for Health Regulation and Policy Analysis and, by 1985, to the Assistant Secretary for Health Regulation. In 1987, Policy, Financing, and Regulation was created and, in 1988, renamed Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation. The deputy secretariat reorganized as Health Care Financing in December 1999.
Health Care Financing administers three of Maryland's medical care programs: Family Planning; Maryland Children's Health Program; and Medical Assistance (Medicaid & HealthChoice).
The principal health regulatory functions of the Department are overseen by Health Care Financing which also provides leadership and guidance for the Department's financing and regulatory programs. This entails oversight of regulatory functions of the Maryland Health Care Commission and the State Health Services Cost Review Commission.
For the Secretary of Health, the Deputy Secretary for Health Care Financing develops recommendations to modify and shape the role of the Department. The Deputy Secretary helps define health problems, evaluates Department programs, and develops data on federal and other external trends so as to advise the Secretary on program emphasis and Department direction.
Under Health Care Financing are the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) and eight offices: Care Transformation; Eligibility and Enrollment; Innovation, Research, and Development; Long-Term Services and Supports; Medical Benefits Management; Medicaid Finance; Pharmacy Services; and Provider Services. Health Care Financing is assisted by the Maryland Medicaid Advisory Committee, and two administrations: Finance; and Innovation, Research and Development.
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building (view from Martin Luther King, Jr., Blvd.), 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, Maryland, October 2017. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
From the Committee, the Secretary of Health receives advice on implementation, operation, and evaluation of managed care programs for Medicaid recipients. The Committee also reviews and makes recommendations on regulations, contracts, and quality control; assesses data; sees that information is available to Medicaid recipients in language they can understand; and otherwise assists in the transition of Medicaid to managed care.
The Committee has up to twenty-five members. Seventeen are appointed to four-year terms by the Secretary of Health, who names the Chair. Two are appointed by the Senate President, and three by the House Speaker. Three serve ex officio (Code Health-General Article, sec. 15-101 through 15-103; Committee Bylaws).
The Work Group provides advice on streamlining the enrollment process for the Medicaid Family Planning Program through presumptive enrollment, and using the Program to encourage participants to enroll for full health coverage. The Work Group is to recommend how to ensure that all participants in the Medicaid Family Planning Program have access to the full range of contraceptive options.
Within the Office of Care Transformation, the Chief Medical Officer oversees the Maryland Primary Care Program Office, the Medical Affairs Division, the Office of Advanced Primary Care, and the Clinical Transformation Unit.
MARYLAND PRIMARY CARE PROGRAM OFFICE
Overseen by the Office, the Maryland Primary Care Program is a voluntary program. To eligible Maryland primary care providers, the Program offers financial and technical support to help them provide advanced primary care.
MEDICAL AFFAIRS DIVISION
The Division provides leadership and support for the Department's Medicaid program, focusing on clinical coverage, quality support, inclusive of health equity, and alignment of value-based payment models across the Department.
The Office of Eligibility and Enrollment originated as part of the Office of Operations, Eligibility, and Pharmacy (under Health Care Financing). It was established as a separate Office of Eligibility in July 2007. In September 2007, it became the Office of Eligibility Services. In July 2026, the Office received its current name.
Through statewide outreach efforts, the Office of Eligibility and Enrollment ensures that eligible Marylanders receive the Medical Assistance benefits for which they are eligible. The Office provides benefit information, enrollment assistance, and problem resolution. Further, the Office develops and implements eligibility policy, and provides training to staff in local health departments.
Under the Office are Eligibility Determination and Eligibility Policy. Two divisions, Recipient Enrollment and Call Center, and Recipient Eligibility Programs, report directly to the Executive Director.
DIVISION OF RECIPIENT ELIGIBILITY PROGRAMS
Systems and procedures are the responsibility of the Division to update the Recipient Eligibility Master File; produce and issue Medical Care Program identification cards; and resolve eligibility problems. It also oversees the Buy-In Programs for Medicare.
Buy-In Programs for Medicare (Parts A & B). Under the these programs, the State, through the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid), pays federal premiums for people certified by the local department of social services as unable to cover hospital insurance (Part A) or medical insurance (Part B).
DIVISION OF RECIPIENT ENROLLMENT & CALL CENTER
The Division oversees the HealthChoice Program.
To improve the quality of health care for Medical Assistance recipients, HealthChoice maintains a roster of primary care physicians. Recipients who have difficulty finding their own physician may choose a primary care provider enrolled with the Program. That provider then refers the recipient to medical specialists as needed. The Program enrolls both recipients and providers and informs Medical Assistance recipients about the Program.
Home and Community-Based Waiver programs are administered by Eligibility Determination. Waivers allow persons to receive Medical Assistance (Medicaid) benefits in a community setting, at home, or in assisted-living facilities. Waivers include: the Waiver for Older Adults; Living at Home Maryland Community Choices Waiver; Waiver for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder; Model Waiver for Disabled Children; Waiver for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities; and the Home and Community-Based Services Model Waiver for Adults with Traumatic Brain Injury.
For children in residential treatment centers and institutions providing mental health services, Eligibility Determination also determines and maintains Medical Assistance eligibility.
MARYLAND CHILDREN'S HEALTH PROGRAM
The Program provides complete health coverage for children and pregnant women who are not eligible for Medicaid, are uninsured, and whose family income is near the federal poverty level. To all uninsured children (through age 18) whose family income is up to 300% of the federal poverty level, and to pregnant women with incomes up to 250% of the federal poverty level, the Program provides health care coverage through the HealthChoice Program, a managed care program (Code Health-General Article, secs. 15-301 through 15-305).
Since October 1, 2013, persons may apply for benefits through Maryland Health Connection, the State's health insurance marketplace, administered by the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange.
Medical Care Programs Administration originated in 1975 as the Medical Care Operations Administration. It reorganized as the Program Systems and Operations Administration in November 1993, and reclaimed its original name in July 1997. In December 1999, it became the Medical Care Operations and Eligibility Administration and, in January 2000, the Office of Operations and Eligibility, Medical Care Programs. From 1999 to July 2007, the Office was responsible for eligibility determination and policy. Renamed the Office of Operations, Eligibility, and Pharmacy in 2004, it reformed as the Office of Systems, Operations, and Pharmacy in July 2007, when its eligibility functions transferred to the Office of Eligibility Services. In May 2018, the Office moved to the Office of Information Technology, which was renamed the Office of Enterprise Technology in May 2019. By August 2023, the Office moved under the Office of Provider Services. By April 2025, the Office was renamed the Medical Care Programs Administration, and moved back under the Office of Eligibility Services.
Systems for prompt and accurate payment to providers of health care services are developed and maintained by the Medical Care Programs Administration. It also maintains files of approved providers of services, and of Maryland residents certified as eligible to receive services through the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid).
Under the Office is the Systems and Operations Administration.
The Office works through three directorates: Community Integration Programs; Nursing and Waiver Services; and Nursing Homes and Community Long-Term Care.
COMMUNITY INTEGRATION PROGRAMS
Community Integration Programs oversees three divisions: Community Options Administrative; Evaluation and Service Review; and Quality and Compliance Review.
NURSING & WAIVER SERVICES
This office is responsible for three divisions: Community Long-Term Care; Community Support Services; and Nursing Services.
NURSING HOMES & COMMUNITY LONG-TERM CARE
Nursing Homes and Community Long-Term Care is responsible for the Division of Long-Term Care Services.
Maryland Medicaid coverage and reimbursement for nursing home services, medical day care, and personal care are administered by the Division. The Division develops strategies for financing and delivering services to persons with special needs who are eligible for Medical Assistance (Medicaid). These include children and adults with chronic or mental illnesses, traumatic injury, developmental disability, AIDS, or a history of drug and alcohol abuse.
Services funded entirely by the State are refinanced to include federal Medicaid funds. Financial resources and services are reallocated from institutions, such as nursing homes and State psychiatric and developmental disability facilities, to community-based services.
The Office of Health Services began as the Policy Administration in 1975. Renamed the Health Systems Financing Administration in 1987, and the Medical Care Policy Administration in March 1990, it became the Medical Care Services Administration in December 1999. Under Health Care Financing, the Office received its present name in January 2000.
Policies and regulations that establish eligibility criteria, define services, detail coverage, specify limitations, and determine reimbursement rates for the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) are developed and reviewed by the Office of Health Services. Moreover, the Office updates the State Plan for the Medical Assistance Program, and secures federal approval for Program changes to assure the continued availability of federal matching funds.
In October 1997, the Office reorganized into three main units: Acute and Primary Care; Long-Term Care and Community Support Services; and Long-Term Care and Waiver Services. In January 2000, it further reorganized under two administrations: HealthChoice and Acute Care; and Long-Term Care and Community Support Services. The Long-Term Care and Community Support Services Administration was renamed the Long-Term Services and Supports Administration in January 2014.
ACUTE CARE
DIVISION OF DENTAL, CLINICS & LABORATORY SERVICES
DIVISION OF HOSPITAL SERVICES
For certain parts of the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid), the Division plans, prepares, and amends regulations, and interprets policy. These parts cover Ambulatory Surgery; Free-standing Dialysis Centers; Hospitals; Medical Laboratories; Mental Health; and Residential Treatment Centers.
MANAGED CARE
Managed Care oversees four divisions: Community Liaison and Care Coordination; HealthChoice Complaint Resolution; HealthChoice Provider Network Management; and HealthChoice Quality Assurance.
The Division manages certain grants; leads in setting maternal health and family policy; oversees Maryland HealthChoice helplines; and manages the referral process for access and care coordination of pregnant women.
DIVISION OF HEALTHCHOICE QUALITY ASSURANCE
The Division establishes and articulates the State Medicaid policies and regulations pertaining to medical and professional services. These services are provided by physicians, dentists, podiatrists, vision care providers, nurse-midwives, nurse anesthestists, nurse practitioners, free-standing clinics, and health maintenance organizations.
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, Maryland, October 2019. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
The Committee reviews and makes recommendations as to which drugs should be included or not included on the Maryland Departmentof Health’s Preferred Drugs List for prescribing to Medicaid recipients. The List refers to medically appropriate drug therapies, which achieve cost savings. In making its recommendations, the Committee considers the clinical efficacy, safety, and cost effectiveness of drug products. Its analysis is based upon review of relevant clinical information, including but not limited to, federal Food and Drug Administration approved package inserts and supporting studies, and peer-reviewed medical journal articles (COMAR 10.09.03.12).
Appointed by the Secretary of Health to three-year terms, the Committee consists of twelve members. Every two years the Committee chooses the Chair from among its members.
SENIOR PRESCRIPTION DRUG ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The Program provides eligible Marylanders, with low to moderate incomes, who are eligible for Medicare Part D, and enrolled in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, a subsidy benefit to assist in offsetting their monthly Medicare Part D premium costs.
Set to expire December 31, 2024, authorization for the Program was extended to December 31, 2030 (Chapter 48, Acts of 2024).
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, Maryland, December 2000. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
Claims Services processes all claims for payment made by providers of health care services under the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) and the Pharmacy Assistance Program. Processing includes mail sorting, microfilming, entry of claims into the Batch and Invoice Control File of the Medicaid Management Information System, and processing of payments in excess of $2.5 billion annually for claims received, resolution of erroneous claims, and claim storage and retrieval. Records of payments to the more than 45,000 health care providers enrolled in the Medical Assistance Program are maintained by the unit.
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ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON MINORITY HEALTH
In August 2019, the Secretary of Health established the Advisory Committee on Minority Health.
The Performance Management and Strategic Planning Team oversees strategic planning and builds performance management systems.
CHIEF OF STAFF
In March 2019, when Operations and Medicaid was restructured as Operations, some units under Enterprise Shared Services were re-assigned to the Chief of Staff. Thereafter, the Chief of Staff became responsible for Health Occupations Boards and Commissions, and five main offices: Communications, Constituent Services, Finance, Governmental Affairs, and Human Resources. Later, the Chief of Staff began to oversee Constituent Services and Finance. Under the Chief of Staff since July 2026 are the Counsel, the Healthcare System, and six offices: Audits; Budget Management; Equal Opportunity Programs; Finance; Governmental Affairs; and Regulations and Policy.
In June 2018, the Assistant Secretary assumed oversight of two chronic health hospitals: Deer's Head Center and Western Maryland Center, formerly under Public Health Services. In March 2019, the two hospitals moved to Operations as State Hospital Administration. Also in 2019, nine more hospitals and facilities moved from the Behavioral Health Administration to the State Hospital Administration, which provides services to individuals with behavioral health conditions and chronic care conditions, as well as residential treatment for adolescents and individuals with developmental disabilities. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Healthcare System moved under the Chief of Staff.
Eastern Shore Hospital Center (Dorchester County)
Thomas B. Finan Hospital Center (Allegany County)
Clifton T. Perkins Hospital Center (Howard County)
Spring Grove Hospital Center (Baltimore County)
Springfield Hospital Center (Carroll County)
Regional Institute for Children & Adolescents - Baltimore (Baltimore City)
John L. Gildner Regional Institute for Children & Adolescents - Rockville (Montgomery County)
FACILITIES
HOLLY CENTER
P. O. Box 2358
Snow Hill Road (Route 12), Salisbury, MD 21801 - 2358
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
The seven members of the Citizens Advisory Board for the Holly Center are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health.
1380 Marshall St., Hagerstown, MD 21740
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health, the Governor appoints the Citizens Advisory Board for the Potomac Center. The Board's seven members serve four-year terms.
1380 Marshall St., Hagerstown, MD 21740
P. O. Box 1722
10102 Country Club Road, Cumberland, MD 21502 - 1722
![[photo, Thomas B. Finan Hospital Center, 10102 Country Club Road, Cumberland, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/16dhmh/mha/images/1198-1-1458b.jpg)
In Allegany County, the Center is a multi-purpose psychiatric facility. It serves Western Maryland residents of all ages with mental illnesses from Allegany, Frederick, Garrett and Washington counties (Code Health-General Article, sec. 10-406). Services extend as well to youth from Carroll, Howard and Montgomery counties.
Staffed to accommodate and treat 72 adult and 24 geriatric patients, and 23 adolescents, the Center consists of small, 25-bed cottages and three cottages that house treatment programs for addicts. These are operated by the Allegany County Health Department.
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health, the Governor appoints the seven members of the Citizens Advisory Board for the Thomas B. Finan Hospital to four-year terms.
605 South Chapel Gate Lane, Baltimore, MD 21229
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health, the Governor appoints the Citizens Advisory Board for the Regional Institute. The Board's seven members serve four-year terms.
15000 Broschart Road, Rockville, MD 20850
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
The seven-member Citizens Advisory Board for the Gildner Regional Institute is appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health.HOSPITALS
CLIFTON T. PERKINS HOSPITAL CENTER
P. O. Box 1000
8450 Dorsey Run, Jessup, MD 20794 - 1000
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
The nine members of the Citizens Advisory Board for the Clifton T. Perkins Hospital Center are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health (Code Health-General Article, sec. 10-411).
P. O. Box 2018, Emerson Ave., Salisbury, MD 21802 - 2018
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health, the Governor appoints the Citizens Advisory Board for the Deer Head Center. Its seven members serve four-year terms (Code Health-General Article, secs. 19-508 through 19-513).
P. O. Box 800
5262 Woods Road, Cambridge, MD 21613 - 0800
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
The Governor appoints the Citizens Advisory Board for the Eastern Shore Hospital Center upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health. Its eleven members serve four-year terms.
55 Wade Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228
![[photo, Bland Bryant Building, Spring Grove Hospital Center, Catonsville, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/16dhmh/mha/images/1198-1-361.jpg)
First authorized as a "common State hospital" (the first public hospital in Maryland), it originally came under the auspices of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, and was run by private physicians. In 1834, however, the State assumed its control and renamed it as the Maryland Hospital.
![[photo, Foster Wade Building, Spring Grove Hospital Center, Catonsville, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/16dhmh/mha/images/1198-1-354.jpg)
It became the Maryland Hospital for the Insane in 1838, and moved in 1872 to its present site at Catonsville. In 1912, the Maryland Hospital for the Insane was renamed by the General Assembly as Spring Grove State Hospital (Chapter 187, Acts of 1912). The Hospital was placed under the Board of Mental Hygiene in 1922, the Department of Mental Hygiene in 1949, and the Mental Hygiene Administration in 1969.
The Hospital then was reformed by the General Assembly in 1973 as Spring Grove Hospital Center (Chapter 740, Acts of 1973). The Center was made part of the Behavioral Health Administration in July 2014, and moved to State Hospital Administration under Operations in 2019. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Spring Grove Hospital Center, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
For Spring Grove Hospital Center, the Citizens Advisory Board's nine members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health (Code Health-General Article, sec. 10-411).
6655 Sykesville Road, Sykesville, MD 21784
![[photo, Springfield Hospital Center, Sykesville, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/16dhmh/mha/images/1198-1-1467.jpg)
Springfield Hospital Center originated as the Second Hospital for the Insane of the State of Maryland authorized by the General Assembly in 1894 (Chapter 231, Acts of 1894). The Hospital opened for patients in July 1896. Renamed by the General Assembly as Springfield State Hospital in 1900 (Chapter 70, Acts of 1900), the Hospital was placed under the Board of Mental Hygiene in 1922, the Department of Mental Hygiene in 1949, and the Mental Hygiene Administration in 1969.
It was renamed by the General Assembly as Springfield Hospital Center in 1973 (Chapter 740, Acts of 1973), and was made part of the Behavioral Health Administration in July 2014. It later moved to State Hospital Administration under Operations in 2019. By February 2025, the State Hospital Administration was reformed as the Healthcare System. In June 2025, the Springfield Hospital Center, as part of the Healthcare System, moved under the Chief of Staff.
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
The Governor, upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health, appoints the Citizens Advisory Board for the Springfield Hospital Center. Its seven members serve four-year terms.
1500 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown, MD 21740
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD
Serving the Western Maryland Center, the Citizens Advisory Board's seven members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health (Code Health-General Article, secs. 19-508 through 19-513).
Originally part of the Office of Finance, the Budget Management Office became a separate unit under the Chief of Staff in February 2026 when Finance moved to Operations.
Within the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (now Maryland Department of Health), the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs began in 1994 as the Office of Community Relations under the Personnel Services Administration. In August 2006, it was transferred to Operations, and reorganized as the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs. From April 2008 to 2012, the Office was part of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. In 2012, it was placed directly under the Office of Secretary.
Formerly under the Assistant Secretary of Health Policy, the Office of Governmental Affairs moved under the Chief of Staff in August 2024.
The Office of Regulations and Policy oversees the Institutional Review Board.
INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD
The Institutional Review Board was created by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (now Maryland Department of Health) in 1977. Formerly under the Community Health Administration, the Board transferred to the Office of Inspector General in January 2004. In July 2026, the Board moved under the Office of Regulations and Policy.
DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF
From August 2024 to June 2025, the Deputy Chief of Staff had been responsible for Health Occupations Boards and Commissions, and the Office of Constituent Services. Since June 2025, however, the Deputy Chief of Staff now oversees the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission; the Maryland Health Care Commission; and the State Health Services Cost Review Commission.
100 Community Place, Room 4.507, Crownsville, MD 21032
HEALTH EQUITY RESOURCE COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
In July 2021, the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission established the Health Equity Resource Community Advisory Committee as required by the General Assembly (Chapter 741, Acts of 2021).
In February 2021, the Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports was established by the General Assembly within the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission (Chapter 36, Acts of 2021). The Consortium is part of the Blueprint for Maryland's Future.
In October 2015, the Maryland Council on Advancement of School-Based Health Centers was established in the State Department of Education. The Council transferred to the Maryland Department of Health in October 2017 (Chapter 417, Acts of 2015; Chapter 199, Acts of 2017).
Reisterstown Road Plaza, 4160 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215
WORKGROUP ON BEHAVIORAL HEALTH RATE METHODOLOGY MODERNIZATION
Within the Maryland Health Care Commission, the Workgroup on Behavioral Health Rate Methodology Modernization was authorized by the General Assembly in July 2026 (Chapters 218 & 219, Acts of 2026).
Under the Center for Analysis and Information Systems are three units: Cost and Quality Analysis; Public Reporting and Data Release; and Special Projects.
SPECIAL PROJECTS
Originally called Analysis and Information Systems Special Projects, Special Projects received its current name in January 2024.
Reisterstown Road Plaza, 4160 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215
ADVISORY COUNCIL ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF POPULATION-BASED & PATIENT-CENTERED PAYMENT SYSTEMS
In November 2013, the State Health Services Cost Review Commission convened the Advisory Council on the Implementation of Population-based and Patient-centered Payment Systems. At that time, the State had an application for a new all-payer model pending with the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Maryland's application was approved in January 2014. Under the new all-payer model, a hospital's revenue is determined at the beginning of the year, which provides stability for planning and predictable revenues. It also gives incentives for better medical outcomes at lower costs, as well as increased efficiency. The five-year model focuses on improving health care quality, affordability, and delivery.
MARYLAND'S OFFICE OF OVERDOSE RESPONSE
100 Community Place, Crownsville, MD 21032
ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS & STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
Created in June 2025, the Assistant Secretary for External Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement directs statewide communications, community relations, and strategic stakeholder alignment. It oversees external communications strategy for the Department, leads high-level stakeholder initiatives in coordination with the Secretary, and manages administrative and operational alignment for the state's Health Occupation Boards.
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, Speech-Language Pathologists, & Music Therapists
State Board for Certification of Residential Child-Care Program Administrators
State Board of Chiropractic Examiners
State Board of Professional Counselors & Therapists
State Board of Dental Examiners
State Board of Dietetic Practice
State Board of Environmental Health Specialists
State Board of Massage Therapy Examiners
State Board of Morticians & Funeral Directors
State Board of Nursing
State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators
State Board of Occupational Therapy Practice
State Board of Examiners in Optometry
State Board of Pharmacy
State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners
State Board of Physicians
State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners
State Board of Examiners of Psychologists
State Board of Social Work Examiners
OFFICE OF APPOINTMENTS & EXECUTIVE NOMINATIONS
Formerly under Business and Regulatory Services, the Office of Appointments and Executive Nominations was placed under Operations in 1997. It transferred to the Office of Public Relations and Governmental Affairs in 2005, and back to Operations in December 2008. The Office moved under the Office of Secretary in 2013, and joined Operations in August 2015. In July 2017, the Office moved under Health Professionals Boards and Commissions (now Health Occupations Boards & Commissions). In June 2025, the Office moved from Regulatory Programs to the Assistant Secretary External Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement.
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Room 320, Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
ALCOHOL & DRUG COUNSELOR SUBCOMMITTEE
In May 2018, the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Subcommittee was established (Chapters 756 & 757, Acts of 2018).
In July 2014, the Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee was established under the State Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists (Chapter 328, Acts of 2014).
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Room 318, Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
FAMILY SECURITY TRUST FUND ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Established in January 2009, the Family Security Trust Fund Advisory Committee provides nonbinding counsel and advice to the State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors on any matters relating to the Family Security Trust Fund other than individual claim matters (Chapter 532, Acts of 2008; Code Health Occupations Article, sec. 7-4A-04).
Metro Executive Office Building, 4140 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2254
CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
In 1999, the Certified Nursing Assistant Advisory Committee was initiated.
In June 2015, the Direct-Entry Midwifery Advisory Committee was established (Chapter 393, Acts of 2015).
In 1978, the Electrology Practice Committee began as the State Board of Electrologists (Chapter 851, Acts of 1978). On July 1, 2003, it moved under the State Board of Nursing and assumed its current name (Chapter 422, Acts of 2003).
The Safe Practice Committee started as a nonpunitive alternative to the disciplinary process of the State Board of Nursing. It originated as the Rehabilitation Committee, authorized in 1988 (Chapter 508, Acts of 1988). To handle the volume of nurses referred to the Program, a second committee was established in 1992. In 2005, the two committees were consolidated into one, renamed the Rehabilitation and Safe Practice Committee. In October 2017, the Committee received its current name (Chapters 515 & 516, Acts of 2017).
Tuerk Building, 2nd floor, 55 Wade Ave., Spring Grove Hospital Center, Catonsville, MD 21228
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
PHARMACY REVIEW COMMITTEE
In 1997, the State Board of Pharmacy was authorized to appoint a Pharmacy Review Committee (Chapter 615, Acts of 1997).
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 0095
ATHLETIC TRAINER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Since October 1, 2011, a person must be licensed by the State Board of Physicians to act as an athletic trainer in Maryland (Chapter 530, Acts of 2009).
In October 2016, the Naturopathic Doctors Formulary Council was established under the State Board of Physicians (Chapter 700, Acts of 2016).
Since March 1, 2016, persons practicing naturopathic medicine must be licensed by the State Board of Physicians (Chapter 153, Acts of 2014).
In October 2012, the Perfusion Advisory Committee was authorized under the State Board of Physicians (Chapter 588, Acts of 2011).
Within the State Board of Medical Examiners, the Physician Assistant Advisory Committee was created in 1986 (Chapter 759, Acts of 1986). The Committee became part of the State Board of Physician Quality Assurance (now State Board of Physicians) in 1988 (Chapter 109, Acts of 1988).
Since October 2006, the State Board of Physicians has licensed and regulated the practice of polysomnography, the monitoring and recording of physiological data during sleep for purposes of diagnosing and treating sleep disorders (Chapter 595, Acts of 2006). At that time, the Polysomnography Professional Standards Committee was created to make recommendations to the State Board of Physicians on how to regulate the profession of polysomnography, and develop a code of ethics, standards of care, and licensure requirements (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 14-5C-05 through 14-5C-07).
The Radiation Therapy, Radiography, Nuclear Medicine Technology Advisory, and Radiology Assistance Committee began in 1990 as the Medical Radiation and Nuclear Medical Technology Advisory Committee. In 2002, it became the Radiation Oncology/Therapy, Medical Radiation, and Nuclear Medicine Technology Advisory Committee (Chapter 373, Acts of 2002). In October 2008, the Committee adopted its present name (Chapter 328, Acts of 2008).
Authorized in 1988, the Respiratory-Care Professional Standards Committee formed in 1990 (Chapter 127, Acts of 1988).
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
Metro Executive Office Building, 4201 Patterson Ave., Room 315, Baltimore, MD 21215
Under Operations, the Office of Communications originated in 1999 as the Office of Public Relations and transferred to the Office of Secretary. In August 2005, it was placed under the Office of Public Relations and Governmental Affairs, and in December 2008 returned to the Office of Secretary. In February 2009, it reformed as the Office of Communication. The Office transferred to Operations in August 2015, and was placed under the Chief of Staff in January 2017. It moved to the Office of Policy, Regulations, and Communications in January 2018, but separated from that office in June 2018 becoming the Office of Communications under Enterprise Shared Services. In March 2019, it transferred back to the Chief of Staff, and still later was placed under the Assistant Secretary of Health Policy. By August 2024, it had transferred back to the Chief of Staff. In June 2025, the Office moved under the Assistant Secretary for External Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement.
Formerly under the Chief of Staff and then the Assistant Secretary of Customer Experience, the Office of Constituent Services was assigned to the Deputy Chief of Staff in August 2024. In June 2025, the Office moved under the Assistant Secretary for External Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement.
ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF POPULATION HEALTH & STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
The position of the Assistant Secretary of Population Health and Strategic Initiatives was created by February 2025.
In October 2024, the Center for Firearm Violence Prevention and Intervention was authorized within the Maryland Department of Health by the General Assembly (Chapter 706, Acts of 2024). By February 2025, the Center moved from the Office of the Secretary to the Assistant Secretary of Population Health and Strategic Initiatives.
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ADMINISTRATION
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
MARYLAND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ADMINISTRATION WAIVER ADVISORY COUNCIL
In October 2025, the General Assembly authorized the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration Waiver Advisory Council within the Developmental Disabilities Administration (Chapter 756, Acts of 2025).
Within the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (now Maryland Department of Health), the Mortality and Quality Review Committee was initiated by the General Assembly in October 2000 as the Mortality Review Committee (Chapter 470, Acts of 2000). It was reformed by the General Assembly as the Mortality and Quality Review Committee in July 2006 (Chapter 268, Acts of 2006; Code Health-General Article, secs. 5-801 through 5-803).
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Under the Chief Operating Officer are nine units: Administrative Services; the Cross-Systems Innovation Division; Federal Programs and Integrity; Long-Term Services and Supports Program Management; the Office of Fiscal Services and Operations; the Office of Policy and Programs; Professional Staff Development; Programs; and Public Information.
CROSS-SYSTEMS INNOVATION DIVISION
The Cross-Systems Innovation Division was originally called the Office of Developmental Disabilities Administration Programs, but received its current name in 2025.
Behavior Supports began in 2025.
Lifespan Support and Services originated in 2025.
FEDERAL PROGRAMS & INTEGRITY
Originally called Federal Programs, the unit was renamed Federal Programs and Integrity by July 2026.
REGIONAL OFFICES
The Developmental Disabilities Administration's service delivery system is organized into four regions: Central, Eastern Shore, Southern, and Western. Each regional office has a team to oversee the Administration's services. These teams include Eligibility, Fiscal, Quality Enhancement, and Self-Advocacy.
The Regional Director for the Central Maryland Region oversees administration of community-based services.
The Regional Director for the Eastern Shore Region oversees administration of community-based services.
The Regional Director for the Southern Maryland Region oversees administration of community-based services.
Administration of community-based services are overseen by the Regional Director for the Western Maryland Region.
PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES
OFFICE OF CHIEF MEDICAL EXAMINER
OFFICE OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES ADMINISTRATION
OFFICE OF HEALTH CARE QUALITY
OFFICE OF POPULATION HEALTH IMPROVEMENT
OFFICE OF PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE
STATE ANATOMY BOARD
LABORATORIES ADMINISTRATION
PREVENTION & HEALTH PROMOTION ADMINISTRATION
VITAL STATISTICS ADMINISTRATION
OPERATIONS
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
In December 2001, the Office of Contract Management and Procurement formed as the Office of Contract Policy, Management, and Procurement under Operations. In April 2006, it became the Office of Procurement and Support Services, and in April 2021 was restructured under its present name.
By 1967, the Office Enterprise Technology originated as the Division of Data Processing under the Bureau of Analysis and Records. By 1973, the Division was placed under the Office of General Administration. As Data Systems, the unit reorganized by 1977 as part of the Office of Service Operations. As the Division of Data Processing in 1981, it came under the Fiscal and Support Operations Administration. By 1983, the Division became part of the Information Systems Administration, renamed the Information Services Administration in 1985. As Information Services, the division joined the Program Systems and Operations Administration in November 1993. By July 1997, Information Services reorganized as the Information Resources Management Administration, and by June 2007 it was functioning under Operations. In January 2011, the Administration restructured as the Office of Information Technology, and in 2017, it transferred to the Office of Secretary. In July 2017, the Office was placed under the Chief of Staff. In January 2018, the Office moved under Enterprise Shared Services and, in May 2019, restructured as the Office of Enterprise Technology. In March 2019, the Office moved to Health Care Financing, and in February 2021 to the Office of Secretary. By May 2026, the Office moved under Operations.
Facilities Management and Development started as the Office of Planning and Policy Management. In 1994, it became the Office of Planning and Capital Financing and, in August 2006, the Office of Capital Planning, Budgeting, and Engineering Services. As the Office of Capital Planning, it reformed in January 2018. Transferring to Operations from the Office of Finance, it was renamed as Facilities Planning and Development in July 2019. It received its current name by August 2023.
CENTRAL SERVICES DIVISION
Formerly under the General Services Administration, the Central Services Division originated as the Division of Central Services. The Division transferred to the Office of Contract Policy, Management, and Procurement in January 2006. Under the Office of Procurement and Support Services, it reformed as Support Services in January 2008. Later, it reorganized as the Central Services Division. In May 2019, the Division moved to the Office of Capital Planning, Budgeting, and Engineering Services (now Office of Facilities Management & Development), which reports to the Deputy Secretary for Operations.
RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE
Since October 1, 2017, the Maryland Department of Health has had a program for the continual, economical and efficient management of its records. Formerly under the Office of Internal Controls, Audit Compliance and Information Security, the Records Management Office moved under the Central Services Division in July 2026.
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., 1st floor, Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
Formed as Information Security under the Office of Internal Controls, Audit Compliance and Information Security, the Office of Information Security received its current name and moved under the Deputy Secretary for Operations in July 2026.
STRATEGIC DATA INITIATIVE
Originally under the Office of Internal Controls, Audit Compliance and Information Security, the Strategic Data Initiative moved to the Office of Information Security in July 2026.
MEDICAID (HEALTH CARE FINANCING)
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (MEDICAID)
Health Care Financing plans, directs, and evaluates the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid).
Since 1966, the Program has provided access to health care for categorically and medically needy residents throughout Maryland.
![[photo, Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building (view from Martin Luther King, Jr., Blvd.), 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/16dhmh/images/1198-1-08270b.jpg)
Health care includes hospital services (inpatient and outpatient), laboratory and X-ray services, nursing facility services, physician services, and home health care. Additional health care is available as indicated in the Medical Assistance State Plan. The Program is implemented by two offices: Eligibility Services; and Health Services.
For approximately 90 percent of recipients, health care expenses of the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) are federally matched on a 50/50 basis. For the remaining 10 percent, services are funded totally by State and local funds (Code Health-General Article, secs. 15-101 through 15-147).
MARYLAND MEDICAID ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Maryland Medicaid Advisory Committee organized as the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. It was created for the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) by the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene in accordance with the federal Social Security Act (sec. 1902A(22)). In 1996, the legislation which enabled Medicaid recipients to be enrolled in managed health-care organizations also reconstituted the Committee as the Maryland Medicaid Advisory Committee (Chapter 352, Acts of 1996).
WORK GROUP ON THE MEDICAID FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAM
At the request of the General Assembly, the Secretary of Health convened the Work Group on the Medicaid Family Planning Program in July 2018 (Chapters 464 & 465, Acts of 2018).
OFFICE OF CARE TRANSFORMATION
Originally formed as the Office of Care Management Integration under the Office of Provider Services, the Office received its current name by April 2025. In July 2026, the Office moved under the Deputy Secretary for Health Care Financing and Medicaid.
In June 2018, the Maryland Primary Care Program Office was formed under the Secretary of Health. In May 2021, the Office transferred to the Deputy Secretary of Health Care Financing. By August 2023, the Office had shifted to the Assistant Secretary of Health Policy. In August 2024, it was placed under the Chief Medical Officer. In July 2026, the Office moved under the Office of Care Transformation.
The Medical Affairs Division was established in September 2024. In July 2026, the Division moved under the Office of Care Transformation.
OFFICE OF ELIGIBILITY & ENROLLMENT
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
The Division of Recipient Eligibility Programs began as the Division of Programs and Liaison. Renamed the Division of Eligibility Services in 1989, it reorganized as Recipient Eligibility Programs in November 1993, and reformed as the Division of Recipient Eligibility Programs in November 2005.
In December 1999, the Division of Recipient Enrollment and Call Center was created as the Beneficiary Services Division. It reorganized as the Division of Beneficiary Enrollment and Call Center in 2003, and under its present name in 2015.
HEALTHCHOICE PROGRAM
HealthChoice Program. This program was initiated in December 1991 as the Maryland Access to Care (MAC) Program. It reorganized as Maryland Access to Care (MAC) Recipient Services and Medical Assistance Provider Relations in November 1993, and further reformed as HealthChoice in July 1998.
ELIGIBILITY DETERMINATION
Eligibility Determination formerly was known as the Medical Assistance Waiver Unit of the Family Investment Administration within the Department of Human Resources. As the Division of Eligibility Waiver Services, it transferred to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (now Maryland Department of Health) in March 2002.
ELIGIBILITY POLICY & COMPLIANCE
Eligibility Policy and Compliance began as Eligibility Policy and received its current name by February 2024.
The Maryland Children's Health Program began in 1998 as the Children and Families Health Care Program (Chapter 110, Acts of 1998). On July 1, 2001, it adopted its current name (Chapter 16, Acts of 2000).
MEDICAL CARE PROGRAMS ADMINISTRATION
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
SYSTEMS & OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATION
The Systems and Operations Administration oversees Program Operations.
PROGRAM OPERATIONS
Under the Systems and Operations Administration, Program Operations originated by July 1996 as the Program Systems and Operations Administration, which oversaw six divisions: Adjustments and Payment Auditing; Claims Processing; Long-Term Care Problem Resolution; Medical Assistance Recoveries; Provider Relations; and Provider Services. In July 1997, functions of the Program Systems and Operations Administration were reassigned to the Medical Care Operations Administration and Program Operations. When Technical Services was abolished in 2016, the Division of Medicaid Information Systems, and the Division of Systems and Liaison Services transferred to Program Operations. Program Operations now operates under the Medical Care Programs Administration as of April 2025.
OFFICE OF INNOVATION, RESEARCH, & DEVELOPMENT
The Office of Innovation, Research, and Development originated under the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) as the Office of Planning, and reformed under its present name in 2019.
OFFICE OF LONG-TERM SUPPORT SERVICES
The Office of Long-Term Support Services began as Eligibility and Administration under the Medical Care Services Administration. Under the Office of Health Services, it became the Long-Term Care and Community Support Services Administration in January 2000, and Long-Term Services and Supports Administration in January 2000. The Administration restructured as the Office of Long-Term Support Services in Feb. 2020.
In January 2000, Community Integration Programs started as Access, Quality, and Program Integrity and restructured as Nursing and Community Programs in July 2004. In January 2011, it further reorganized as Community Integration Programs.
Under the Long-Term Services and Supports Administration, Nursing and Waiver Services originated as Long-Term Care and Waiver Services, and adopted its present name in January 2011.
DIVISION OF COMMUNITY LONG-TERM CARE
The Division of Community Long-Term Care organized as the Division of Special Populations in December 1994. It was one of two units created from the former Division of Program Services. In 1997, the Division of Special Populations reorganized as the Division of Planning and Evaluation. It received its present name in January 2000.
Formed in November 2005 as Long-Term Care Financing, Nursing Homes and Community Long-Term Care adopted its present name in January 2011.
DIVISION OF LONG-TERM CARE SERVICES
In July 1979, the Division of Long-Term Care Services was created. It became the Division of Institutional Long-Term Care Services in January 2000, and returned to its original name in 2006.
OFFICE OF MEDICAL BENEFITS MANAGEMENT
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
HEALTHCHOICE & ACUTE CARE ADMINISTRATION
Formed in January 2000, the HealthChoice and Acute Care Administration consists of two directorates: Acute Care; and Managed Care.
Acute Care organized in November 2005. It oversees three divisions: Children's Services; Dental, Clinics and Laboratory Services; and Hospital Services.
DIVISION OF CHILDREN'S SERVICES
The Division of Children's Services organized in May 1998.
The Division of Hospital Services was established in July 1979 as the Division of Acute Care. It became the Division of Medical Services in October 1997, the Division of Pharmacy and Clinic Services in January 2000, and the Division of Hospital and Physician Services in June 2003. It further reformed as the Division of Hospital and Professional Services in November 2005, and adopted its present name in January 2011.
In January 2000, Managed Care formed as Provider Management and adopted its present name in November 2005.
DIVISION OF COMMUNITY LIAISON & CARE COORDINATION
The Division of Community Liaison and Care Coordination formed in May 1998 as the Division of Outreach and Women's Services, became the Division of Outreach and Assistance in January 2000, the Division of Outreach and Care Coordination in July 2000, and received its current name in July 2014.
In July 1987, the Division of HealthChoice Quality Assurance was initiated as the Division of Primary Care, became the Division of Managed Care in October 1997, and the Division of HealthChoice Management in January 2000. That division merged with the Division of Managed Care Quality Assurance in April 2002 to form the Division of HealthChoice Management and Quality Assurance, and later was renamed the Division of HealthChoice Quality Assurance.
![[photo, Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/16dhmh/images/1198-1-10086c.jpg)
OFFICE OF PHARMACY SERVICES
The Office of Pharmacy Services started in 1978 as the Pharmacy Assistance Program. It was renamed as the Maryland Pharmacy Program on July 1, 2003 when the Pharmacy Discount Program joined the Program. Although the Pharmacy Discount Program was repealed effective Jan. 1, 2006 (Chapter 282, Acts of 2005), the Maryland Pharmacy Program continued. Formerly under the Office of Systems, Operations and Pharmacy, the Program in 2019 was reorganized as the Office of Pharmacy Services, and placed directly under the. Deputy Secretary for Health Care Financing and Chief Operating Officer.
MARYLAND MEDICAID PHARMACY & THERAPEUTICS COMMITTEE
The Maryland Medicaid Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee was formed by the Department in September 2003.
In July 2016, the Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program transferred to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (now Maryland Department of Health) from the Maryland Health Insurance Plan (Chapter 321, Acts of 2016).
OFFICE OF PROVIDER SERVICES
![[photo, Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/16dhmh/images/i005909a.jpg)
Under the Office of Provider Services are Medicaid Claims Processing, Adjustments, Medicaid Mailroom, Professional and Institutional Provider Relations; Provider Enrollment; and Provider Policy, Compliance, and Quality Improvement.
MEDICAID CLAIMS PROCESSING, ADJUSTMENTS, MEDICAID MAILROOM, PROFESSIONAL & INSTITUTIONAL PROVIDER RELATIONS
CLAIMS SERVICES
First named the Division of Invoice Processing, the Division of Claims Processing adopted its present name in 1989. By April 2025, it was renamed Claims Services.
PROVIDER ENROLLMENT
Formerly called the Division of Provider Enrollment, the unit was renamed Provider Enrollment by April 2025.
PROVIDER POLICY, COMPLIANCE, & QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
Provider Policy, Compliance, and Quality Improvment began as the Division of Provider Policy, Compliance, and Quality Improvment, but took its current name by April 2025.
REGULATORY PROGRAMS
Regulatory Programs was organized in August 2005.
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e-mail: mdmanual@maryland.gov