MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES

Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, Maryland, March 2004. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

Calvert County Health Department, 975 Solomon's Island Road North, Prince Frederick, Maryland, July 2008. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

To ensure that basic public health services are provided in all parts of Maryland, the Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services oversees the local health departments in each county and Baltimore City. Under direction of a local health officer, each local health department provides these services and administers and enforces State and local health laws and regulations in its jurisdiction. Programs meet the public health needs of the community and provide services not offered by the private sector. The local health officer is appointed jointly by the Secretary of Health and the local governing body (Code Health-General Article, secs. 3-101 through 3-405).

CHIEF OF STAFF

STATE ANATOMY BOARD

Authorized in 1947, the State Anatomy Board was organized in 1949 (Chapter 669, Acts of 1949). The Board's purpose is to ensure the proper distribution of cadavers to qualified hospitals, medical schools, and other agencies engaged in medical education and research. Bodies are distributed equitably to the anatomy department of each medical school in Maryland. The Board also carries out the legal provisions regulating Consent to Post Mortem Examination (Chapter 315, Acts of 1961) and the Anatomical Gift Act (Chapter 467, Acts of 1968).

School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, 655 West Baltimore St., Baltimore, Maryland, August 2018. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF MEDICAL EXAMINER

Organized by the General Assembly in July 2023, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner oversees a network of local deputy medical examiners and forensic investigators who investigate violent and suspicious deaths, and deaths unattended by physicians (Chapter 268, Acts of 2023; Code Health-General Article, secs. 2-106; 5-301 through 5-307; 5-309 through 5-312). These duties had been the responsibility first of local sheriffs, and then of local coroners from 1666 to the end of the nineteenth century. Then, they were assumed by justices of the peace. In 1939, the General Assembly assigned these functions to deputy medical examiners (Chapter 369, Acts of 1939).

Any death that occurs by violence, suicide, casualty, or in any suspicious or unusual manner, or a sudden death in which the deceased was in good health or unattended by a physician is required by law to be investigated (Code Health-General Article, sec. 5-308). In the event of such a death, the local police or sheriff will notify the appropriate State's Attorney and a local medical examiner or forensic investigator authorized by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to investigate deaths in that jurisdiction. The investigator proceeds to the scene of death to take charge of the body; investigates the medical cause of death; takes possession of any property found on the body; collects the names and addresses of witnesses; obtains photographs; preserves any evidence; and writes a detailed report to be submitted to the Office.

As staffing permits, the Office seeks to advance forensic science through medical education and research.

Supplanting the State Postmortem Examiners Commission, the Chief Medical Examiner may appoint physicians as deputy medical examiners and forensic investigators in each county. With the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, deputy medical examiners file reports of all deaths investigated.

The Chief Medical Examiner performs autopsies and provides the local state's attorney with copies of records concerning any death which requires further investigation. During Fiscal Year 2020, the Office investigated 18,441 deaths, and performed 6,595 autopsies.

Records of the Office are open for inspection to the family of the deceased and are acceptable in court as evidence of the facts contained.

Appointed by the State Postmortem Examiners Commission, the Chief Medical Examiner oversees Administration, Autopsy Services, Statewide Services, Toxicology, and the Center for the Study of Health Effects of Fire.

POSTMORTEM EXAMINERS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Created by the General Assembly in 1939, the Department of Postmortem Examiners replaced a decentralized system of local coroners (Chapter 369, Acts of 1939). In 1982, the Department was subsumed into the State Postmortem Examiners Commission (Chapter 21, Acts of 1982). In July 2023, the Commission was renamed the Postmortem Examiners Advisory Committee (Chapter 268, Acts of 2023).

The Committee advises the Secretary of Health and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Five members constitute the Committee. Four serve ex officio, and a representative of the Maryland Department of Health is selected by the Secretary of Health as a member (Code Health-General Article, secs. 5-301 through 5-312).

CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF HEALTH EFFECTS OF FIRE
Forensic Medical Center, 900 West Baltimore St., Baltimore, MD 21202

The Center for the Study of the Health Effects of Fire was established by the General Assembly in 1988 (Chapter 185, Acts of 1988). The Center studies the health effects of exposure to fire; gathers and analyzes data on fire-related injury or death; and maintains both a registry of persons who suffer fire-related injury or death, and a computerized database concerning injuries and health effects of fire. For information routinely collected about fires, the Center is a repository. Information collected by the Center and intended for use in research, however, is confidential and not discoverable or admissible as evidence in a civil or criminal action to determine cause of death or liability for injury or death.

Pilot studies on issues or factors affecting injuries from or the health effects of fire are funded by the Center which also applies for federal or private research grants to investigate such issues. In addition, the Center communicates with national scientific data bases on toxicology, chemistry, epidemiology, and related scientific disciplines; collaborates with agencies, such as the National Bureau of Standards, that are involved in programs related to health effects of fire; and promotes interest in fire-related issues at educational institutions in Maryland (Code Health-General Article, secs. 18-701 through 18-711).

ADVISORY COUNCIL TO THE CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF HEALTH EFFECTS OF FIRE
The Advisory Council to the Center for the Study of the Health Effects of Fire reviews the work of the Center for the Study of Health Effects of Fire. The Council also advises the Director concerning the scientific evaluation of information collected by the Center and helps the Center set research priorities.

To five-year terms, the Secretary of Health appoints the Council's seven members (Code Health-General Article, secs. 18-706 through 18-710).

TOXICOLOGY

OFFICE OF HEALTH CARE QUALITY

The Office of Health Care Quality started in 1971 as the Division of Licensing and Certification under the Office of General Administration and reorganized in 1986 as the Office of Licensing and Certification Programs. In 1987, it was renamed the Licensing and Certification Administration. As the Office of Quality Assurance, it transferred from Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation and was placed under the Office of Secretary in March 1999. The Office received its present name in September 1999, then moved under Regulatory Programs in August 2005, and under the Office of Secretary in November 2009. It transferred again in August 2015 to Regulatory Programs, and in January 2016 to Public Health Services.

All hospitals and health-related institutions in Maryland must be licensed by the Office of Health Care Quality (Code Health-General Article, secs. 19-2001, 19-2002). The quality of care and compliance with both State and federal regulations in 18,032 health-care facilities and health-related services and programs is monitored by the Office. These facilities, services, and programs include: adult daycare centers; ambulatory surgical facilities; assisted-living programs; birthing centers; developmental disabilities programs; dialysis centers; group homes; health maintenance organizations (HMOs); home health agencies; hospice programs, hospitals; independent physical therapists; major medical equipment; medical laboratories; nursing homes and rehabilitation centers; prison hospitals; residential service agencies; residential treatment centers; substance abuse programs; and other miscellaneous programs. To regulate them, the Office conducts more than 10,000 inspections yearly (Code Health-General Article, secs. 19-301 through 19-2302).

For all health facilities participating in the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) and Medicare, the Office of Health Care Quality is responsible for inspection and certification recommendations. Administrative actions against facilities that violate State rules and regulations also are initiated by the Office.

The Office of Health Care Quality consists of Administration, Quality Initiatives, and two divisions: Federal Programs, and State Programs.

QUALITY INITIATIVES
Established in 1999 as the Quality Assurance Unit, Quality Initiatives investigates quality-of-care complaints referred by the Maryland Insurance Commissioner, and enforces statutory and regulatory requirements relating to the quality of care provided by health maintenance organizations (Chapter 697, Acts of 1999).

ADMINISTRATION
For the Office of Health Care Quality, Administration develops policy, operational procedures, regulations, budgets, and legislation.

FEDERAL PROGRAMS
The Federal Programs Division originated as the Long-Term Care Program within the Licensing and Certification Administration before it reformed in 1992 as Long-Term Care, Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Programs. In 1995, it became the Long-Term Care Program, which evaluated and surveyed nursing homes, adult day-care centers, and licensed and registered domiciliary-care homes. In 2001, it reorganized as the Federal Programs Division. By August 2023, it was renamed as Federal Programs

This division is responsible for licensure of adult medical daycare, ambulatory care facilities, health maintenance organizations, hospitals, laboratories, and nursing homes.

AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES PROGRAM
Ambulatory Care Program. This program started as the Hospitals and Ambulatory Care Program. It reorganized in 1995 as the Developmental Disabilities and Ambulatory Care Program, and adopted its present name in 1997.

The Program reviews State and federal programs involving home health agencies, hospices, health maintenance organizations, major medical equipment, ambulatory care facilities, residential service agencies, and dialysis centers.

STATE PROGRAMS DIVISION
Functions of the State Programs Division began in 1992 as the Long-Term Care Program, the Community Mental Health Program, and the Substance Abuse Program. The work of these units was reorganized in 1995 into two units, and thereafter the Substance Abuse and Community Mental Health Program formed. In 1995, the Developmental Disabilities and Ambulatory Care Program also was created. Its ambulatory care functions were reassigned in 1997. That program reorganized as the Developmental Disabilities, Substance Abuse and Community Mental Health Program in 1997, and became the State Programs Division in 2001.

The State Programs Division oversees licensure of assisted-living facilities, developmental disabilities facilities, and mental health programs. The Division also certifies substance abuse programs, and evaluates community residential and day programs for the developmentally disabled.

All residential and nonresidential health-related services and programs for the mentally impaired and the alcohol and drug addicted are evaluated by the Division. The Division also manages the licensure of private review agents doing business in Maryland. Private review agents are third parties (often employed by insurance companies) who (in advance) approve or disapprove medical procedures to be covered by insurance.

OFFICE OF POPULATION HEALTH IMPROVEMENT

Through stewardship of data, partnerships, and funding initiatives, the Office of Population Health Improvement seeks to transform public health by developing innovative health policy and improving the health infrastructure of Maryland.

Initially, the Office of Population Health Improvement oversaw three units: Health Systems Transformation, Performance and Finance, and the Office of School Health. When the Office of Primary Care Access transferred to the Office of Population Health Improvement as the Primary Care Office in September 2016, the Office then was made responsible for the funding of core public health services, and five units: Health Systems Transformation; Performance Improvement; Population Health; Primary Care Office; and Rural Health and Workforce Development. School Health became a unit under Population Health.

PRIMARY CARE OFFICE
In April 2015, the Office of Primary Care Access moved from the Health Systems and Infrastructure Administration to the Primary Care and Community Health Bureau. As the Primary Care Office, it transferred to the Office of Population Health Improvement in September 2016.

MARYLAND STATE SCHOOL HEALTH COUNCIL
In 1946, the Maryland State School Health Council was created by the State Department of Health and the State Department of Education.

Reorganized in 1966, the Council helps develop and maintain programs to provide a healthful school environment, health and safety instruction, and school health services. It also advises the Maryland Department of Health and the State Department of Education on the school health program, and serves as a forum for the two State departments, their local counterparts, and other groups concerned with the health of school-age children.

The Council includes two representatives appointed by each of the twenty-four local health and education departments. The Executive Board consists of five members elected by the Council, and representatives of health and education agencies, State and local associations, and education organizations.

LOCAL PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING
By law, the Maryland Department of Health annually provides matching funds to Maryland's twenty-four local health departments for certain health services. These cover administration and communication; adult health promotion; child health; communicable disease services; environment; family planning; geriatric services; maternal health; and wellness.

Funding for local core public health services transferred from the Family Health Administration to the Health Systems and Infrastructure Administration in July 2012. When the Health Systems and Infrastructure Administration was phased out in 2015, its responsibilities were shifted to the Primary Care and Community Care Bureau of the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration. When that bureau restructured as the Cancer and Chronic Disease Bureau, the funding of core public health services transferred to the Office of Population Health Improvement.

Core Public Health Services Funding Program. This program provides matching State funds to local health departments for vital programs, such as communicable disease control, maternal and child health services, and environmental health.

In April 2004, the Office of Preparedness and Response began as Emergency Preparedness and Response to coordinate Departmental response to any hazardous health situations, including natural disasters, such as blizzards and hurricanes, as well as biological, chemical or nuclear incidents. In February 2006, Emergency Preparedness and Response merged with the Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response. The Office had been established under the Community Health Administration in October 2002 to upgrade Maryland's readiness and response capability for public health threats and emergencies, such as bioterrorism and infectious disease outbreaks. The merger formed the Office of Preparedness and Response in February 2006. In April 2019, the Office moved from Public Health Services to Operations.

Through statewide partnerships with public, private and government agencies, the Office of Preparedness and Response organizes and prepares for public health and medical emergencies. The Office plans for rapid mobilization of public health personnel, and ensures that they are organized, trained, and equipped for all types of hazards.

Under the Office of Preparedness and Response is the Maryland Responds Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) State Program. In preparation for and when responding to public health emergencies, the Program develops and fosters the statewide Medical Reserve Corps Network to facilitate a coordinated approach to volunteer management. The Program also supports Maryland Responds Local Units by providing resources, guidance, and technical assistance to meet local needs, build capacity, and strengthen response capabilities.

The Maryland Professional Volunteer Corps, trained health care professionals who provide emergency care during catastrophic events, also is coordinated by the Office as is the Emergency Management Team of the Maryland Department of Health. On-call 24 hours a day, the Team responds to health emergencies such as those brought on by natural disasters, or acts of bioterrorism.

OFFICE OF PROVIDER ENGAGEMENT & REGULATION

In 1951, the Office of Provider Engagement and Regulation originated as the Division of Drug Control within the Bureau of Environmental Hygiene. Later transferred to the Office of Licensing and Certification, the Division of Drug Control reorganized in 1987 as the Office of Drug Control and joined the Community Health Surveillance and Laboratories Administration. The Office became part of the Laboratories Administration in 1997 and resumed its original name in November 2004. In November 2015, the Division moved directly under the Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services, and in July 2016, restructured as the Office of Controlled Substances Administration. Later, it reformed as the Office of Provider Engagement and Controlled Dangerous Substance Regulation. In February 2019 the Office was formed, consisting of the Office of Controlled Substances Administration and the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.

PRESCRIPTION DRUG MONITORING PROGRAM
In 2011, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene created the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP).

The Office enforces the Controlled Dangerous Substance Act, and ensures the availability of drugs for legitimate medical and scientific purposes while working to prevent drug abuse (Code Criminal Law Article, secs. 5-101 through 5-505). Office programs focus on physicians, dentists, veterinarians, pharmacists, manufacturers, distributors, pharmacies, and nonpharmacy establishments.

LABORATORIES ADMINISTRATION

The Laboratories Administration was made part of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (now Maryland Department of Health) as the Community Health Surveillance and Laboratories Administration in 1987 and received its present name in January 1997.

To help physicians and health officials prevent, diagnose, and control human diseases, the Laboratories Administration bears broad responsibilities for laboratory testing. The Administration also performs examinations in connection with the enforcement of State health laws, and the chemical, microbiological, and radiological surveillance of the environment related to foods, waters, sewage, air, pharmaceuticals, and hazardous wastes. Moreover, laboratory tests are conducted to support State occupational safety and health regulations and to enforce pure food and drug laws (Code Health-General Article, secs. 17-101 through 17-605).

To ensure the quality of laboratory services, the Administration develops standards and regulations for medical laboratories, tissue banks, and physician office laboratories. In addition, it certifies and periodically inspects laboratories that examine water and dairy products for shipment out of Maryland.

In April 2015, the Administration moved from the Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, to its present location.

The Laboratories Administration oversees two main agencies: Administrative and Support Services, and Scientific Programs, as well as its central laboratory in Baltimore and two regional laboratories. It also is responsible for the Office of Laboratory Emergency Preparedness and Response, and is assisted by the Laboratory Advisory Committee.

LABORATORY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Authorized by the General Assembly in 1989, the Laboratory Advisory Committee advises the Secretary of Health on matters relating to medical laboratories (Chapter 330, Acts of 1989; Code Health-General Article, sec. 17-217).

The Secretary of Health appoints six or more Committee members to two-year terms and names the Chair.

OFFICE OF LABORATORY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE
In July 2002, the Office of Laboratory Emergency Preparedness and Response was organized within the Laboratories Administration as the Laboratory Bioterrorism Office. It reformed under its present name in November 2004.

The Office develops procedures, trains staff, and coordinates State efforts to prepare for a laboratory and response to all hazards, such as an emerging infection epidemic or a bioterrorism attack. The Office also oversees the Biological Agents Registry.

BIOLOGICAL AGENTS REGISTRY
Since October 2002, the Biological Agents Registry has been authorized to monitor persons in Maryland who possess, maintain, or transfer certain biological agents. These biological agents might include microorganisms, fungi, or other toxins.

The Registry is in charge of a system of safeguards requiring individuals who possess, maintain, or transfer biological agents to comply with federal regulations on transferring such agents. The Registry also alerts proper authorities of unauthorized possession, or attempted possession of biological agents. Moreover, during investigations, the Registry is maintained for the use of federal law enforcement agencies, and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Chapter 361, Acts of 2002; Code Health-General Article, secs. 17-601 through 17-605).

ADMINISTRATIVE & SUPPORT SERVICES

Today, Administrative and Support Services oversees four offices: Information Management Services; Laboratory Support Services; Quality Systems and Maintenance; and Safety and Training.

SCIENTIFIC PROGRAMS

In November 2016, Scientific Programs reorganized, and now is responsible for five divisions: Environmental Sciences; Microbiology; Molecular Biology; Newborn and Childhood Screening; and Virology and Immunology.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES DIVISION
In November 2016, the Environmental Sciences Division formed from the merger of the Environmental Microbiology Division and the Environmental Chemistry Division, both of which had originated in November 2004 under Scientific Programs.

To help monitor and enforce environmental and consumer product safety laws, the Environmental Sciences Division tests air, beverages, drugs, drinking water, foods, pharmaceuticals, sediments, sludges, soils, wastewater, and local flora and fauna. Tests are conducted to detect potentially toxic pollutants, such as pesticides, radioactivity, metals, and organic and inorganic compounds. For consumer safety, products are tested for tampering, characterization, and nutritional labeling. Also, the Division tests for disease-causing microorganisms in drinking water, swimming water, sewage treatment water, foods, shellfish and shellfish waters, and dairy products. In addition, the Division certifies laboratories to test water, shellfish, and dairy products.

MICROBIOLOGY DIVISION
The Microbiology Division began as the Division of Diagnostic and Public Health Microbiology, and became the Public Health Microbiology Division under Scientific Programs in November 2004. It assumed its current name in November 2016.

The Division provides diagnostic services, including processing patient specimens, recovering and identifying infectious agents, and assisting physicians in delivering proper antimicrobial therapy. For Maryland health care providers and institutions, the Division indentifies and confirms microbial agents: enteric and diarrheal; foodborne, fungal; gonococcal; parasitic; pertussis; and tuberculosis. These agents cause various diseases.

Five sections comprise the Division: Clinical Microbiology; Enteric Infections; Mycobacteriology; Mycology; and Parisitology.

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY DIVISION
In the Molecular Biology Division, testing is carried out for HIV, rabies, West Nile virus, and other pathogens.

Five sections perform the Division's work: Molecular Diagnostics; Molecular Epidemiology; Molecular Imaging and Analysis; DNA Sequencing; and Rabies Zoonosis.

NEWBORN & CHILDHOOD SCREENING DIVISION
For every baby born in Maryland, the Newborn and Childhood Screening Division offers testing for numerous hereditary disorders. These include biotinidase deficiency; congenital adrenal hyperplasis; cystic fibrosis; fatty oxidation disorders; galactosemia; homocystinuria; maple syrup urine disease (MSUD); neonatal hypothyroidism; phenylketonuria (PKU); sickle cell anemia and other hemoglobinopathies; and tyrosinemia.

As part of the State's Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, the Division tests children's blood for elevated lead levels, and checks environmental samples for lead contamination.

VIROLOGY & IMMUNOLOGY DIVISION
To detect viral and certain bacterial agents that cause diseases in humans, the Virology and Immunology Division conducts serological assays to determine the effectiveness of vaccines for hepatitis, measles, mumps, polio, rubella, and varicella. The Division conducts surveillance testing for sexually transmitted diseases; does cell culture isolations for epidemiological studies of respiratory virus outbreaks; and analyzes animal-borne agents, such as Hantaviruses, Lyme disease, rabies, and arboviruses, including encephalitis, West Nile, and Zika.

PREVENTION & HEALTH PROMOTION ADMINISTRATION

The Prevention and Health Promotion Administration formed from the merger in July 2012 of the Infectious Disease and Environmental Health Administration, and the Family Health Administration.

Infectious Disease & Environmental Health Administration. The Infectious Disease and Environmental Health Administration started in July 2009 with the merger of the AIDS Administration and the Community Health Administration. It was responsible for environmental health programs, food control services, HIV care services, infectious disease prevention and reporting, outbreak response, and regulatory programs.

500 North Calvert St., Baltimore, Maryland, February 2004. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

The other component that helped to make the Infectious Disease and Environmental Health Administration was the Community Health Administration. It originated in 1969 as the Local Health Services Administration. By 1973, it reorganized as the Local Health and Professional Support Services Administration and, by 1977, as the Local Health Administration. The Local Health Administration and the Family Health Administration merged in 1989 to form the Local and Family Health Administration. In January 1997, the Administration reformed as the Community and Public Health Administration. That administration divided into the Community Health Administration and the Family Health Administration in July 2001. Functions of the Community Health Administration transferred in July 2009 to the Infectious Disease and Environmental Health Administration.

Family Health Administration. The other forerunner of the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration was the Family Health Administration. The Family Health Administration worked to prevent and control chronic diseases; prevent injuries; provides public health information; and promotes healthy behaviors in Marylanders. Further, it strove to ensure that quality health care services are available, especially for at-risk and vulnerable people. The Administration also oversaw programs for maternal and child health; family planning and reproductive health; cancer control; oral health; and tobacco use prevention.

The Family Health Administration also was responsible for the Center for Cancer Surveillance and Control; the Center for Health Promotion and Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation; and the Center for Maternal and Child Health. In addition, the Administration oversees five offices: Chronic Disease Prevention; Genetics and Children with Special Health Care Needs; Health Policy and Planning; Oral Health; and Women, Infants and Children Food Program. In July 2010, the Administration restructured into two deputy directorates: Family Health Services, and Prevention and Disease Control.

Prevention & Health Promotion Administration. The Administration works to prevent disease and protect, promote, and improve the health and well-being of Marylanders and their families (Code Health-General Article, secs. 18-101 through 18-1002).

Programs administered by the Administration include the Maryland AIDS Drug Assistance Program - Plus, and the Breast and Cervical Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Program.

To local health departments, the Administration provides State grants for various purposes, including support for their operational costs, and engages in partnerships with local health departments with special attention to at-risk and vulnerable populations.

Initially, the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration organized under four bureaus: Cancer and Chronic Disease; Environmental Health; Infectious Disease; and Maternal and Child Health. In April 2015, it restructured with five bureaus: Environmental Health; Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Outbreak Response; Infectious Disease Prevention and Care Services; Maternal and Child Health; and Primary Care and Community Health.

CENTER FOR FIREARM VIOLENCE PREVENTION & INTERVENTION
Effective October 1, 2024, the Center for Firearm Violence Prevention and Intervention is authorized by the General Assembly to be established within the Maryland Department of Health (Chapters 706 & 707, Acts of 2024).

By partnering with federal, State and local agencies, and affected communities, the Center will implement a public health approach to reduce firearm violence. The Center's goal is to reduce firearm violence, harm from firearm violence, and misuse of firearms in the State (Code Health–General Article, secs. 13–5201 through 13–5205).

CANCER & CHRONIC DISEASE BUREAU

The Bureau is responsible for the Office of Oral Health, and three centers: Cancer Prevention and Control; Chronic Disease Prevention and Control; and Tobacco Prevention and Control.

CENTER FOR CANCER PREVENTION & CONTROL
The Center for Cancer Prevention and Control began as the Center for Cancer Surveillance and Control, which formed under the Community and Public Health Administration in January 2000. The Center for Cancer Surveillance and Control joined the Family Health Administration in July 2001. At that time, it assumed functions of the former Division of Cancer Control from the Office of Chronic Disease Prevention, as well as oversight of the Maryland Cancer Registry. In July 2012, the Center reorganized under its present name as part of the Cancer and Chronic Disease Bureau. In April 2015, it became part of the Primary Care and Community Health Bureau.

The Center plans, develops, and implements initiatives to reduce deaths and disabilities due to cancer. The Center also oversees the Maryland Cancer Registry.

MARYLAND CANCER REGISTRY
The Maryland Cancer Registry was initiated in July 1982. Formerly under the Department of the Environment, the Registry transferred to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (now Maryland Department of Health) in 1991.

The Registry is an incidence-based electronic database containing demographic, diagnostic and treatment data on Maryland residents and those nonresidents who are diagnosed or treated in Maryland (Code Health-General Article, sec. 18-204). Under contractual agreement with the Maryland Department of Health, the Registry is operated by Tri-Analytics, Inc., of Bel Air, Maryland.

MARYLAND CANCER REGISTRY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Following the establishment of the Maryland Cancer Registry in July 1982, the Maryland Cancer Registry Advisory Committee was created. The Committee advises the State Council on Cancer Control concerning the operation of the Registry.

CENTER FOR CHRONIC DISEASE PREVENTION & CONTROL
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Room 300, Baltimore, MD 21201

The Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Control organized in the 1960s as the Regional Medical Program and later became the Adult Health Program. When the Local and Family Health Administration formed in 1989, the Program reformed under it as the Office of Chronic Disease Prevention. The Office transferred to the Community and Public Health Administration in 1997, and became the Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Public Health Residency Program under the Family Health Administration in 2001. It combined with the Office of Injury and Disability Prevention to form the Center for Preventive Health Services in May 2003. In June 2008, the Center was renamed again as the Office of Chronic Disease Prevention. In July 2012, the Office reorganized under its present name as part of the Cancer and Chronic Disease Bureau of the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration.

STATE ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HEALTH & WELLNESS
In October 2017, the State Advisory Council on Health and Wellness was created by the General Assembly (Chapter 40, Acts of 2017).

The Council assumes responsibilities of the State Advisory Council on Arthritis and Related Diseases, the State Advisory Council on Heart Disease and Stroke, and the State Advisory Council on Physical Fitness. To carry these out, the Council works through at least four committees concerned with arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and stroke, and physical fitness. Further, the Council promotes evidence-based programs to encourage healthy ways of living; and prevent, detect, and treat chronic diseases. In addition, to the Maryland Department of Health, the Council makes recommendations on chronic disease prevention, health, and wellness.

Of the Council's thirty-three members, twenty seven are appointed by the Secretary of Health to four-year terms. Four serve ex officio, and the Maryland Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities and the Maryland Association of County Health Officers each have a representative (Code Health-General, sec. 13-203).

CENTER FOR TOBACCO PREVENTION & CONTROL
300 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201

300 West Preston St., Baltimore, Maryland, December 2000. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

Maryland Arthritis Project. With funding from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this Project began in September 1999. It is setting up a surveillance system to collect epidemiological data on arthritis and related rheumatic conditions; formulating the Maryland State Arthritis Plan; and working to expand the role of the State Advisory Council on Arthritis and Related Diseases.

Maryland Kids in Safety Seats Program. To ensure children's safety as passengers in vehicles, this program began in 1980. It educates the public about what State law requires for child safety seats and restraints, and how to properly install and use them. A newsletter containing product information on child safety seats, product recalls, safety tips, instructions on proper installation, and related issues is published by the Program. To offer low-income families access to child safety seats, the Program also coordinates loaner programs statewide.

Tobacco Use Prevention & Cessation Program. This program funds local school districts and health departments in their tobacco use prevention and cessation efforts. It support media campaigns on clean indoor air and smoke-free environments and other community programs that educate the public about tobacco use (Code Health-General Article, secs. 13-1001 through 13-1015).

OFFICE OF ORAL HEALTH
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201

The Office of Oral Health focuses on improving the oral health of Marylanders, preventing oral diseases and injuries, and increasing their access to oral health care. The Office develops educational materials, including brochures on oral cancer, brushing and flossing techniques, healthy eating habits, and a children's guide to healthy oral habits. The Office also grants funds to local health departments for developing oral health education and prevention programs and for community water fluoridation (Code Health-General Article, secs. 18-801 through 18-802).

To increase the number of dentists serving in Dental Health Professional Shortage Areas, the Office works with the University of Maryland Dental School.

Under the Office is the Maryland Dental-Care Loan Assistance Repayment Program.

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH BUREAU

Under the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration, the Bureau oversees the Office of Food Protection and Healthy Homes and Communities as well as three centers: Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology; Injury and Sexual Assault Prevention; and Injury Epidemiology.

The Office of Food Protection started as the Office of Food and Product Health. It was renamed the Office of Food Protection and Consumer Health Services in 1988 under the Community Health Surveillance and Laboratories Administration. In 1997, it reorganized as Consumer Health and Facility Services under the Community and Public Health Administration, joined the Community Health Administration in July 2001, and the Infectious Disease and Environmental Health Administration in July 2009. In July 2012, it reorganized under its present name within the Environmental Health Bureau of the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration.

Cow & workers, Milking Parlor, Cow Palace, Maryland State Fair, Timonium, Maryland, September 2015. Photo by Sarah A. Hanks.

The Office is responsible for four centers: Facility and Process Review; Food Defense and Emergency Response; Food Processing; and Milk and Dairy Product Safety.

CENTER FOR FACILITY & PROCESS REVIEW


CENTER FOR FOOD DEFENSE & EMERGENCY RESPONSE

CENTER FOR MILK & DAIRY PRODUCT SAFETY
The Center for Milk and Dairy Product Safety began as the Division of Milk Control and was restructured as the Center for Milk Control in August 2009. It reorganized under its present name in July 2012.

To ensure that Marylanders have a safe supply of milk and dairy products, the Center licenses and inspects dairy farms, milk processing plants, frozen dessert manufacturers, bulk milk receiving and transfer stations, and wholesale distribution facilities that handle Grade A milk products. Further, the Center licenses and certifies dairy farm inspectors; licenses and evaluates bulk milk haulers and samplers; and licenses milk transportation companies operating in Maryland. For dairy products produced in Maryland, the Center issues certificates for exports. The Center also investigates all complaints and enforces all laws relating to production and shipment of milk and dairy products (Code Health-General Article, secs. 21-401 through 21-436).

Milk Cow, Kinder Farm Park, Millersville, Maryland, August 2019. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

YOUTH CAMP SAFETY ADVISORY COUNCIL
c/o Office of Food Protection & Consumer Health Services
3431 Benson Ave., Baltimore, MD 21227

In 1986, the Youth Camp Safety Advisory Council was authorized (Chapter 116, Acts of 1986). The Council helps the Maryland Department of Health develop and review regulations for certifying youth camps. These regulations cover fire and safety standards; medical services; personnel screening procedures; refuse collection and disposal; safety; sanitation; sewage disposal; and water supplies; and reporting systems for fatalities, serious illnesses, or accidents. All youth camps in Maryland must comply with these regulations.

The Council's eleven members are appointed to three-year terms by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Senate advice and consent (Code Health-General Article, secs. 14-401 through 14-411).

INFECTIOUS DISEASE EPIDEMIOLOGY & OUTBREAK RESPONSE BUREAU

The Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Outbreak Response Bureau assumed the duties of the Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Outbreak Response. That Office was initiated as the Office of Epidemiology and Disease Control, which began under the Community Health Surveillance and Laboratories Administration. That administration became the Community and Public Health Administration in 1997, and the Community Health Administration in July 2001. After the latter reformed as the Infectious Disease and Environmental Health Administration in July 2009, the Office of Epidemiology and Disease Control was renamed the Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Outbreak Response in August 2009. In July 2012, the Office became part of the Infectious Disease Bureau of the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration.

The Bureau works to control all communicable diseases affecting people in Maryland. The Bureau strives to contain hard-to-control diseases, such as hepatitis, influenza, sexually-transmitted diseases, and rabies. It also works to control acute communicable diseases, tuberculosis, nosocomial infections, and animal-borne diseases transmittable to humans. In addition, the Bureau supervises health programs for refugees and migrants.

Currently under the Bureau are the Emerging Infections Program, and five centers: Global Migration and Immigrant Health; Immunization; Infectious Disease Surveillance and Outbreak Response; Tuberculosis Prevention and Control; and Zoonotic and Vector-Borne Disease.

CENTER FOR GLOBAL MIGRATION & IMMIGRANT HEALTH
The Center for Global Migration and Immigrant Health began as the Office of Immigrant Health. In September 2018, it adopted its present name.

The Maryland Refugee Health Program is overseen by the Center. Through local health departments, the Program works to ensure that newly arrived refugees, asylees, parolees, and other immigrants receive a comprehensive health assessment, follow-up care, and health referrals.

CENTER FOR IMMUNIZATION
To prevent diseases, the Center for Immunization provides free vaccines to health providers and local health departments through the Vaccines for Children Program. The Center also educations the public on vaccine requirements for entering child care or school and college, as well as traveling abroad. Further, the Center monitors outbreaks of diseases.

CENTER FOR INFECTIOUS DISEASE SURVEILLANCE & OUTBREAK RESPONSE
The Center for Infectious Disease Surveillance and Outbreak Response began as the Center for Surveillance, Infection Prevention, and Outbreak Response. The Center adopted its present name in September 2018.

CENTER FOR TUBERCULOSIS PREVENTION & CONTROL


CENTER FOR ZOONOTIC & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASE
The Center for Zoonotic and Vector-Borne Diseases works with local health departments, the general public, government agencies, health care providers, and veterinarians to prevent and control certain communicable diseases in Maryland. These diseases fall into two categories: zoonotic diseases, and vector-borne diseases. Zoonotic diseases are those which naturally are transmitted between animals and humans, such as rabies, avian influenza, and salmonellosis. Vector-borne diseases are transmitted to humans through a vector, such as a mosquito or tick, and include Lyme disease and the West Nile virus.

INFECTIOUS DISEASE PREVENTION & HEALTH SERVICES BUREAU

Under the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration, the Bureau is responsible for the Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships, and six centers: HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Integration and Capacity; HIV Prevention and Health Services; HIV Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Evaluation; Maryland AIDS Drug Assistance Program; Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention; and Viral Hepatitis.

CENTER FOR HIV CARE SERVICES
In 1989, the Division of AIDS Services, Planning, and Development formed within the AIDS Administration. The Division became the Center for AIDS Services, Planning, and Development in 1994. It reorganized in 1997 as the Center for HIV Patient Services, and became the Center for HIV Health Services in 2001. Also in 2001, the Center for HIV Client Services was formed to operate programs to fund medication for eligible persons. In December 2006, that Center combined with the Center for HIV Client Services to form the Center for HIV Care Services. It joined the Infectious Disease and Environmental Health Administration in July 2009.

Clinical activities for the diagnosis and evaluation of patients with AIDS are funded by the Administration. The Administration also directly operates drug assistance and insurance assistance programs for those living with HIV/AIDS. The Administration consults and coordinates its work with twenty-four local health departments. Each local health department has counseling and testing sites that offer free tests and consultations.

The Center administers the federal Ryan White CARE Act Program. Through this and other federal and State programs, the Center assures that Marylanders living with or affected by HIV/AIDS have access to primary medical care, case management and dental care, as well as to other support services. Funds are awarded to local health departments, other government agencies, community and hospital-based health care facilities, and community organizations to provide these services. For housing assistance and related supportive services for individuals with HIV/AIDS, the Center also administers funds from the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Program of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

CENTER FOR MARYLAND AIDS DRUG ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Through the Maryland AIDS Drug Assistance Program, specified medications in the treatment of HIV and AIDS patients are funded throughout Maryland. The Maryland AIDS Drug Assistance Program-Plus (MADAP-Plus) is administered.

CENTER FOR HIV & SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION INTEGRATION & CAPACITY


CENTER FOR HIV PREVENTION & HEALTH SERVICES
The Center for HIV Prevention began in 1991 as the Division of Professional Education and Health Services. The Division formed within the AIDS Administration by merging functions of the Division of Provider Education and Training with the Division of Patient Care Services. In 1994, the Division of Professional Education and Health Services reorganized as the Center for Professional Education and Patient Services, and in 1997 as the Center for Education and Training. In February 2005, the Center for Education and Training merged with the Center for Prevention Planning, Development and Evaluation to form the Center for HIV Prevention, which transferred to the Infectious Disease and Environmental Health Administration in July 2009.

The Center for HIV Prevention educates health-care professionals about HIV and treats persons who are HIV infected. HIV diagnostic evaluation units where a person with HIV disease can be assessed by health-care professionals are funded by the Center. Staff consult with the patient's health-care provider to help that provider meet the patient's complex medical needs.

In 1997, when the Center for Quality Assessment and Improvement was abolished, most of its functions were assigned to the Center for Education and Training. Among these functions that continue with the Center for HIV Prevention today are the evaluation of the results of preventive care, early intervention, and treatment provided by the AIDS Administration; and the setting of high standards of clinical performance for State and federally funded HIV and AIDS services.

Under the Center are three divisions: Capacity Building and Training; Health Communications, Public Information, and Prevention for HIV Positive Persons (PHIPP); and Local Prevention and Provider Education.

DIVISION OF LOCAL PREVENTION & PROVIDER EDUCATION
The Division of Local Prevention and Provider Education first organized as the Division of HIV Counseling and Testing Services within the AIDS Administration. Renamed the Division of Local Prevention Services, it was placed under the Center for AIDS Education (later the Center for Prevention Programs). The Division transferred in 1997 to the Center for Education and Training, and reorganized as the Division of Local Prevention and Provider Education. In July 2004, the Center reformed as the Center for Prevention, Education, and Training and, in July 2009, the Division was made part of the Infectious Disease and Environmental Health Administration. After the creation of the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration in July 2012, all HIV prevention and care services were merged into the Center for HIV Prevention and Health Services, under the Infectious Diseases and Environmental Health Bureau.

At no charge, the Division provides HIV health education and counseling, as well as voluntary HIV antibody testing to any Marylander. Efforts are made selectively to test, counsel, and refer for treatment and other services those individuals who practice behaviors that put them at risk for HIV infection.

Services are provided by funding local health departments to operate 54 sites throughout Maryland for HIV counseling and testing services. All local health departments also provide programs for sexually transmitted disease. These programs offer HIV-risk assessment, counseling, and testing to their clients.

CENTER FOR HIV SURVEILLANCE, EPIDEMIOLOGY, & EVALUATION
The Center for HIV Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Evaluation started as the Center for HIV Surveillance and Epidemiology under the Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Outbreak Response Bureau. The Center moved to the Infectious Disease Prevention and Health Services Bureau in July 2017 under its present name.

With local health care providers, health departments, and the federal government, the Center for HIV Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Evaluation collects and analyzes data on HIV and AIDS in Maryland. This information is vital for tracking, preventing, and planning to control the diseases.

CENTER FOR SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION PREVENTION


CENTER FOR VIRAL HEPATITIS

MATERNAL & CHILD HEALTH BUREAU

In January 2000, the Maternal and Child Health Bureau was established under the Community and Public Health Administration as the Center for Maternal and Child Health. The Center formed at the that time from the merger of the Office of Children's Health with the Office of Maternal Health and Family Planning. From July 2010 to July 2012, the Center was placed under Family Health Services. In July 2012, it transferred to the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration as the Maternal and Child Health Bureau.

Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, Maryland, October 2019. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

Office of Maternal Health & Family Planning. In 1922, the Office of Maternal Health and Family Planning originated as the Bureau of Maternal and Child Health and Services to Crippled Children. The Bureau had become the Division of Maternal and Child Health under the Bureau of Preventive Medicine by 1951, under the Bureau of Preventive Medical Services by 1967, and under the Preventive Medicine Administration in 1969. The Division was renamed the Office of Maternal Health, Family Planning, and Hereditary Disorders by 1985. As the Office of Maternal and Child Health it was placed under the Family Health Administration in 1987. The Office joined the Local and Family Health Administration in 1989 and was renamed the Office of Maternal Health and Family Planning in 1990. As part of the Community and Public Health Administration since 1997, it transferred to the Family Health Administration in July 2001 as the Center for Maternal and Child Health.

The Maternal and Child Health Bureau works to improve the health of women of childbearing age and their babies. With federal and State funds, the Bureau directs prenatal care and family planning services offered by local health departments and others. The Bureau also administers special grants to improve the reproductive health of adolescents and introduce new contraceptive techniques into the public health system.

For basic preventive services to safeguard the health of children, the Maternal and Child Health Bureau administers State and federal funding to the local health department in each county and Baltimore City. These services include immunizations; screening for lead poisoning, vision, hearing and scoliosis; and counseling in basic nutrition. The Bureau also administers special grants, such as the grant to the University System of Maryland relating to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), or grants to Eastern Shore counties for preventive dental care for children. In addition, the Bureau offers training, consultation, and technical assistance to local health departments and the private sector.

For children whose chronic illnesses or disabling conditions interfere with normal growth and development, the Maternal and Child Health Bureau helps families plan and obtain specialized medical and rehabilitative care. These conditions include cerebral palsy, orofacial anomalies, speech and language problems, spina bifida, heart disease and defects, hearing impairment, cystic fibrosis, chronic otitis media, chronic renal disease, and epilepsy. Many other diagnoses qualify a child to receive services if financial eligibility requirements also are met (Code of Maryland Regulations - COMAR 10.22.08.05B).

A joint federal, State and local program called Children's Medical Services, formerly Crippled Children's Services, is administered by the Bureau. While State funding for services to crippled children dates to at least 1922, the program has operated in Maryland since 1937 (Code Health-General Article, sec. 15-125).

Under the Bureau are four offices; Family and Child Health Services; Genetics and People with Special Health Care Needs; Surveillance and Quality Initiatives; and Maryland Women, Infants, and Children Food Program.

OFFICE OF CHILDREN & YOUTH WITH SPECIFIC HEALTH CARE NEEDS
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399

Functions of the Office of Children and Youth with Specific Health Care Needs began In 1964, when the first programs of the Office for Genetics and People with Special Health Care Needs were initiated. These programs were assigned to the Division of Hereditary Disorders in 1973. Reorganized as the Office of Hereditary Disorders in 1990, the Office was placed under Family Health Services and Primary Care in 1997, and became the Office for Genetics and Children with Special Health Care Needs in March 2000. The Office functioned under the Family Health Administration from July 2001 to July 2012, when it was renamed the Office for Genetics and People with Special Health Care Needs and moved to the Maternal and Child Health Bureau of the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration. On January 8, 2024, the Office for Genetics and People with Special Health Care Needs reorganized as the Office of Children and Youth with Specific Health Care Needs.

The Office works to improve the early identification of children with special health care needs through newborn screening for metabolic diseases, sicle cell disease, chronic diseases, birth defects, hearing loss, and developmental problems. The Office coordinates alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) testing to pregnant women; screens nearly every newborn baby in Maryland for birth defects; treats genetic metabolic diseases and hemoglobin disorders, including sickle cell disease; and provides clinical services for other genetic disorders. The Office also ensures that children receive timely specialized medical care and family support services.

Under the Office are the Birth Defects Reporting and Information System and the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program. The Office is aided by the State Advisory Council on Hereditary and Congenital Disorders.

STATE ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HEREDITARY & CONGENITAL DISORDERS
In 1973, the State Advisory Council on Hereditary and Congenital Disorders formed as the Commission on Hereditary Disorders (Chapter 695, Acts of 1973). It became the State Commission on Hereditary and Congenital Disorders in 1986 (Chapter 740, Acts of 1986). Renamed the State Advisory Council on Hereditary and Congenital Disorders, it was placed under the Local and Family Health Administration in 1992 (Chapter 71, Acts of 1992). In 1997, the Administration reformed as the Community and Public Health Administration, and in July 2001 as the Family Health Administration. In July 2010, the Council moved under the Laboratories Administration. In July 2012, the Council moved to the Office for Genetics and People with Special Health Care Needs within the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration.

Information on the treatment of hereditary and congenital disorders in Maryland is gathered and disseminated by the Council. It also establishes and promulgates rules, regulations, and standards for the detection and management of these disorders. On a continuous basis, it evaluates the need for and efficiency of relevant State programs. For the public and providers of health services, the Council also institutes and supervises educational programs and counseling on hereditary and congenital disorders, their treatment and prevention.

In July 2011, the Council was charged with studying the implementation of critical congenital heart disease screening of infants (Chapter 553, Acts of 2011).

The Council is composed of fifteen members. Eleven of these are voting members who serve four-year terms. They include one senator named by the Senate President, one delegate chosen by the House Speaker, and since July 2018, nine members appointed by the Secretary of Health. The Secretary of Health also appoints four nonvoting members (Chapter 660, Acts of 2018; Code Health-General Article, secs. 13-101 through 13-113).

BIRTH DEFECTS REPORTING & INFORMATION SYSTEM
The Birth Defects Reporting and Information System is maintained by the Office. The System collects data and provides information to parents of children with disorders and defects. Educational programs on genetics and genetic services are offered by the Office to health professionals, educators, and the general public.

EARLY HEARING DETECTION & INTERVENTION PROGRAM
The Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program was established as the Program to Identify Hearing-Impaired Infants under the Developmental Disabilities Administration in 1985 (Chapter 402, Acts of 1985). In 1990, the Program transferred to the Office of Children's Medical Services and, in 1992, to the Office of Children's Health within the Local and Family Health Administration. In 1995, the Program became part of the Office of Child Health, which moved under the Community and Public Health Services Administration in 1997. The Program was placed under the Office of Hereditary Disorders in 1998. Reformed as the Universal Newborn-Hearing Screening Program in 1999, it moved under the Office for Genetics and Children with Special Health Care Needs in 2000 (Chapter 127, Acts of 1999; Code Health-General Article, secs. 13-601 through 13-605). The Program became part of the Family Health Administration in July 2001, and joined the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration in July 2012. The Program assumed its present name in July 2014 (Chapter 30, Acts of 2014).

The Program provides early identification and follow-up of hearing-impaired infants and infants who are at risk of developing a hearing impairment. Since 1999, the Program has been required to help develop protocols for the universal screening of newborns' hearing (Chapter 127, Acts of 1999).

EARLY HEARING DETECTION & INTERVENTION ADVISORY COUNCIL
In 1985, the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Advisory Council began as the Advisory Council for Program to Identify Hearing-Impaired Infants (Chapter 402, Acts of 1985). It was renamed the Advisory Council on Universal Newborn-Hearing Screening Program in 1999 (Chapter 127, Acts of 1999), and received its present name in July 2014 (Chapter 30, Acts of 2014).

The Council advises the Maryland Department of Health on implementing the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program and on educational programs for families, professionals, and the public. The Council also reviews Program materials distributed by the Department.

Appointed by the Secretary of Health to three-year terms, the Council consists of twelve members (Code Health-General Article, secs. 13-601 through 13-605).

OFFICE OF FAMILY & CHILD HEALTH SERVICES
The Office of Family and Child Health Services began as the Office of Family Planning and Home Visiting and adopted its present name in 2019.

Family planning services are provided by the Office through the Maryland Title X Family Planning Program. In July 2017, the Family Planning Program was established to ensure that individuals receiving family planning services from providers cut off from federal Title X funds in December 2016 would continue to receive such services (Chapters 28 & 810, Acts of 2017).

OFFICE OF MARYLAND WOMEN, INFANTS & CHILDREN FOOD PROGRAM
Herbert R. O'Conor State Office Building, 201 West Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399

Created by the Department in 1985, the Office of Maryland Women, Infants and Children Food Program joined the Family Health Administration in 1987. That administration was renamed the Local and Family Health Administration in 1989, the Community and Public Health Administration in 1997, and again the Family Health Administration in July 2001. The Office became part of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau under the Prevention and Health Promotion Administration in July 2012.

Maryland Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The Program offers health and nutrition services, including supplemental foods, to pregnant, postpartum and breast-feeding women; infants up to one year of age; and children until their fifth birthday. To be eligible, an individual also must meet income requirements and be at nutritional risk.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Program is administered by the Office of Maryland Women, Infants and Children Food Program through grants to eighteen local agencies that serve the entire State. Each local agency determines recipient eligibility, prescribes individualized food packages, provides nutrition education, prepares required records and reports, and issues food instruments (negotiable checks used in exchange for approved foods). The Office ensures that Maryland's program accords with federal requirements (P.L. 95-627).

OFFICE OF SURVEILLANCE & QUALITY INITIATIVES
The Office of Surveillance and Quality Initiatives oversees programs relating to child, maternal and family health. These concern breastfeeding, child fatality review, domestic violence, fetal and infant mortality review, intimate partner violence, maternal mortality review, perinatal standards, postpartum infant and maternal referral, pregnancy risk assessment monitoring, umbilical cord blood donation, and women's health.

VITAL STATISTICS ADMINISTRATION

In November 1998, the Vital Statistics Administration started from divisions formerly under the General Services Administration. At that time, the Division of Health Statistics and the Division of Vital Records were placed under the Administration. Formerly under Operations, the Vital Statistics Administration moved to Public Health Services in February 2011.

The Administration registers all births, deaths, and fetal deaths that occur in Maryland. It issues certified copies of birth, death and marriage certificates, and provides verification of divorces. Further, the Administration compiles and analyzes vital statistics data; prepares annual population estimates by age, race, sex, and geographical subdivisions; compiles reports on vital statistics and population; and makes its data available to government agencies and the public.

The work of the Administration is performed by two divisions: Health Statistics, and Vital Records.

DIVISION OF HEALTH STATISTICS

Functions of the Division of Health Statistics began in 1951 as part of the Division of Vital Records and Statistics under the Department of Health. By 1959, the work of vital statistics was placed under the Division of Research and Planning. By 1961, it was found under the Office of Planning and Research and, by 1963, was part of the Division of Statistical Research and Records. In 1967, it formed separately as the Division of Biostatistics under the Bureau of Analysis and Records. In 1969, the Division became the Center for Health Statistics and, by 1973, was placed under the Office of General Administration. The Center reorganized as a division in 1988.

Annually, the Division of Health Statistics publishes vital statistics and population estimates for the State. To highlight significant trends and findings, the Division analyzes and reports annually on the health status of Maryland residents. It provides statistical analysis and advice to programs on studies and systems development. The Division publishes annual and special reports on these topics.

DIVISION OF VITAL RECORDS

The Division of Vital Records organized in 1910 as the Bureau of Vital Statistics under the State Department of Health (Chapter 560, Acts of 1910). In 1951, it reformed as the Division of Vital Records and Statistics and, in 1967, as the Division of Vital Records under the Bureau of Analysis and Records. In 1969, the Division was placed under the Center for Health Statistics. In 1988, the Division was separated from Health Statistics.

Copies of certified birth, death, and marriage certificates and divorce verification are issued by the Division. All births, deaths, marriages, and divorces that occur in the State also are registered with the Division. Copies of birth and death records are issued to authorized persons for a fee of $10 for the first certified copy (checks to be made payable to Maryland Department of Health). Application for certified copies may be made in person, by mail or online. Verification of identity is required to ensure the applicant is authorized to receive a certificate. Commemorative birth certificates also may be ordered from the Division for a fee of $50.

Birth and Death Records. The Division has birth and death records for Baltimore City from January 1, 1875, and for the twenty-three counties of Maryland from August 1898. The information also is available from the State Archives.

Marriage and Divorce Records. State marriage registration began on June 1, 1951, and divorce registration began in June 1961. Copies of marriage records prior to January 1, 1990 may be obtained from the Circuit Court clerk in the county where the marriage occurred, or from the State Archives. For a fee of $12, the Division issues certified copies of marriage certificates for marriages occurring after January 1, 1990, and official verification of divorces and annulments occurring after January 1, 1992.

Formerly located at 4201 Patterson Ave., Baltimore, the Division of Vital Records moved to its present Reisterstown Road site in August 2016.

Maryland Constitutional Offices & Agencies
Maryland Departments
Maryland Independent Agencies
Maryland Executive Commissions, Committees, Task Forces, & Advisory Boards
Maryland Universities & Colleges
Maryland Counties
Maryland Municipalities
Maryland at a Glance

Maryland Manual On-Line

Search the Manual
e-mail: mdmanual@maryland.gov

This web site is presented for reference purposes under the doctrine of fair use. When this material is used, in whole or in part, proper citation and credit must be attributed to the Maryland State Archives. PLEASE NOTE: The site may contain material from other sources which may be under copyright. Rights assessment, and full originating source citation, is the responsibility of the user. Tell Us What You Think About the Maryland State Archives Website! [ Archives' Home Page  ||  Maryland Manual On-Line  ||  Reference & Research ||  Search the Archives   ||  Education & Outreach  ||  Archives of Maryland Online ] Governor     General Assembly    Judiciary     Maryland.Gov

© Copyright October 22, 2024 Maryland State Archives