The Maryland Hospital Association (MHA) has recently launched the “Healthy Hospitals. Healthy Communities” campaign, a statewide initiative aimed at addressing health disparities, improving access to care, and fostering stronger connections between hospitals and communities throughout Maryland.
The initiative builds on the MHA’s history of advocating for health equity and seeks to unite healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations in a shared mission of the Healthy Hospitals. Healthy Communities Campaign.
“Hospitals are here to care for people, drive innovation, and uplift our communities,” said Tom Kleinhanzl, MHA Board Chair and President & CEO of Frederick Health. “This initiative is a chance to celebrate the committed partners who collaborate with us across the health care continuum to make a difference in every community throughout the state.”
How the Campaign Helps Maryland Residents
The Campaign addresses the social determinants of health, such as housing, education, and economic stability. By tackling these issues, Maryland hospitals are working to bridge gaps in care and support underserved populations within their Healthy Hospitals. Healthy Communities Campaign.
As Melony G. Griffith, president and CEO of the MHA said, “being able to be here in the community, talking with people that are serving and saving lives every day” highlights the essential need for ensuring access to high-quality healthcare for all.
The campaign emphasizes early intervention, preventive care, and partnerships to address these issues head-on. Maryland hospitals are also expanding outreach efforts to ensure residents in rural and urban areas alike have access to the resources they need.
By addressing chronic conditions, substance use, and mental health challenges, the campaign seeks to lower emergency room visits and hospital readmissions, easing the strain on healthcare resources while improving lives.
The Broader Vision Toward a Healthier Community
A major focus of the Healthy Hospitals, Healthy Communities campaign is accessibility. Programs like the University of Maryland Medical System’s Center for Addiction Medicine (CAM) offer comprehensive substance use care including counseling, medication management, and inpatient services for those in need.
“CAM provides comprehensive substance use services to patients in Baltimore City and the surrounding counties and states, and we provide counseling, medication management, and inpatient services,” said Carson Herbert, clinical social worker lead at the Midtown Campus. “CAM believes in affordability, accessibility, and availability. Therefore, we are open 365 days a year.”
These services not only aid individuals in recovery but also strengthen families and reduce stigma in the community, ultimately contributing to better public health outcomes.
Bridging Necessary Gaps in Care
“I’m just thankful for the work that the University of Maryland is doing to help support folks that are in recovery and helping them with managing their substance use disorders,” said Melissa R. Wells, delegate for District 40 in Baltimore City. “And just really grateful that it’s helping not only support those individuals, but support their families and our community.”
Additionally, the campaign has expanded its focus to address food insecurity, a critical issue affecting health outcomes. Hospitals are partnering with local food banks and community organizations to provide nutritious meals and education on healthy eating. For many residents, these efforts mean the difference between managing a chronic condition and facing severe health complications.
By tackling these issues, Maryland hospitals are working to bridge gaps in care and support underserved populations as part of the Healthy Hospitals. Healthy Communities Campaign.
“What I saw today was close to amazing,” said Christina Fitts, MHA board member and CEO of AJ Fitts Unlimited, LLC, who praised the campaign during an outreach visit to the University of Maryland. “I didn’t realize that these services were available to the citizens that not only reside in Baltimore City, but on the outskirts and other states.”
Maryland Hospitals Lead the Way in Tackling Health Disparities
The Healthy Hospitals, Healthy Communities campaign is a testament to the critical role healthcare institutions play in addressing systemic health challenges and fostering equity. By taking a holistic approach and building strong partnerships, Maryland hospitals are setting an example for the nation within the framework of the Healthy Hospitals. Healthy Communities Campaign.
This initiative serves as a call to individuals, families, and communities to unite in building a healthier Maryland.
Residents can support the Healthy Hospitals, Healthy Communities campaign by using local hospital services, attending community health events, advocating for policies that address social determinants of health, and volunteering or donating to outreach programs. Check out the Maryland Hospital Association website for more information.
