Appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent, the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene is responsible for the functions of the Department. The Secretary also directs and coordinates numerous boards, commissions, and citizen advisory groups.
The Secretary serves on the Governor's Executive Council; the Governor's Subcabinet for Children, Youth, and Families; the Advisory Committee for Children, Youth, and Families; the Governor's Council on Adolescent Pregnancy; the Cabinet Council on Criminal and Juvenile Justice; and the Governor's Pesticide Council. The Secretary also serves on the Interagency Committee on Aging Services; the Assisted-Living Program Board; the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee; the State Emergency Medical Services Board; the State Health Resources Planning Commission; the State Commission on Infant Mortality Prevention; the State Information Technology Board; the Interdepartmental Advisory Committee for Minority Affairs; the Maryland Partnership for Children, Youth, and Families; the Commission on Women's Health; and the Governor's Year 2000 Readiness Task Force.
Under the Secretary are three deputy secretaries. Each has a specific area of responsibility: Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation; Operations; and Public Health Services.
The Panel is appointed by the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene.
The Office of Quality Assurance originated in 1971 as the Division of Licensing and Certification under the Office of General Administration and was reorganized in 1986 as the Office of Licensing and Certification Programs. In 1987, the Office was reformed as the Licensing and Certification Administration. As the Office of Quality Assurance, it transferred from Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation and was placed directly under the Office of the Secretary in March 1999.
The Office licenses all hospitals and health-related institutions in Maryland. It is the regulatory agency that monitors the quality of care and compliance with both State and federal regulations in 8,000 health-care facilities and health-related services and programs. With a professional staff of 140, the Office conducts more than 10,000 inspections yearly. The Office also is responsible for inspection and certification recommendations for all health facilities participating in the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) and Medicare. The Office initiates administrative action against facilities that violate State rules and regulations.
The Office consists of five programs: Developmental Disabilities, Substance Abuse and Community Mental Health: Hospitals and Complaint; Ambulatory Care; Laboratory; and Long-Term Care.
The Developmental Disabilities, Substance Abuse and Community Mental Health Program evaluates community residential and day programs for the developmentally disabled. It also evaluates all residential and nonresidential health-related services and programs for the mentally impaired and the alcohol and drug addicted. This program also manages the licensure 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.
The Ambulatory Care Program started as the Hospitals and Ambulatory Care Program. It reformed in 1995 as the Developmental Disabilities and Ambulatory Care Program and received 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.
Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation began in 1975 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, the position of Deputy Secretary for Policy, Financing, and Regulation was created, and, in 1988, it became the Deputy Secretary for Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation.
Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation oversees the principal health regulatory functions of the Department and provides leadership and guidance for the Department's financing and regulatory programs. This entails oversight of regulatory functions of the State Health Services Cost Review Commission, the State Health Resources Planning Commission, and the Maryland Health Care Access and Cost Commission; compliance with regulations and standards of the Medical Care Finance and Compliance Administration; payments for services through the Medical Care Operations Administration; and financing and policy of the Medical Care Policy Administration. In addition, Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation oversees Health Professionals Boards and Commissions; and the Health Services Analysis and Evaluation Administration.
With the assistance of the Health Services Analysis and Evaluation Administration, the Deputy Secretary for Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation develops recommendations for the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene 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.
The Board's seven members are appointed to three-year terms by the Governor with Senate advice and consent (Code Health - General Article, secs. 2-201 through 2-207).
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Health care expenses of the Medical Assistance Program are federally matched on a 50/50 basis for approximately 90 percent of the recipients. For the remaining 10 percent, services are funded totally by State and local funds (Code Health - General Article, secs. 15-101 through 15-128).
Under the Deputy Secretary for Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation are the Maryland Health Care Access and Cost Commission, the State Health Resources Planning Commission, and the State Health Services Cost Review Commission. The Deputy Secretary also is responsible for five administrations: Health Services Analysis and Evaluation; Information Resources Management; Medical Care Finance and Compliance; Medical Care Operations; and Medical Care Policy. In addition, the Deputy Secretary oversees Health Professionals Boards and Commissions, the State Board of Nursing, and the State Board of Physician Quality Assurance.
In 1993, the Maryland Health Care Access and Cost Commission was created as an independent body within the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (Chapter 9, Acts of 1993).
The Commission develops strategies by which the costs of health care may be limited and access to health care services extended to all Marylanders. The Commission 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. The Commission also facilitates public disclosure of medical claims data for the development of public policy; maintains and analyzes a medical care data base on health care provided by health care practitioners; and ensures the use of that data base 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 the availability of information to consumers, providers, and purchasers of health care; 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.
With Senate advice and consent, the Governor appoints the Commission's seven members to four-year terms. The Governor also names the chair (Code Health - General Article, secs. 19-1501 through 19-1516). Authorization for the Commission continues until July 1, 2002 (Code State Government Article, sec. 8-403(p))
The Committee's fifteen members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor, who designates the chair (Code Health - General Article, secs. 19-1601 through 19-1606).
The State Health Resources Planning Commission originated in 1968 as the Comprehensive Health Planning Agency (Chapter 221, Acts of 1968). The Agency was reformed as the Maryland Health Planning and Development Agency in 1978 (Chapter 911, Acts of 1978). In 1982, the State Health Resources Planning Commission replaced the Agency (Chapter 108, Acts of 1982).
The Commission promotes the development of a health care system that provides quality care at reasonable cost for all citizens. The Commission plans the development of quality health services within each health service area and identifies essential resources, encouraging effective use. The Commission advocates policies and systems for efficient access to services, including acute, long-term, mental health, primary care and community-based alternatives. The Commission also coordinates its work with the State Health Services Cost Review Commission and the Maryland Health Care Access and Cost Commission and assesses the impact of plans and projects on total health care costs to Maryland and its citizens. In addition, the Commission prepares the State Health Plan and conducts the Certificate of Need Program to assure that institutions meet standards of public need before constructing new facilities.
The law creating the Commission also established local health planning agencies to serve health service areas designated by the Governor. These agencies are required to assure broad citizen representation of their region and in their activities, formulate local health plans, and help develop statewide criteria and standards for Certificate of Need and health planning.
The Commission has fourteen members. Thirteen are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor. The Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene serves ex officio. The Governor names the chair. With the Governor's approval, the Commission appoints the Executive Director (Code Health - General Article, secs. 19-103 through 19-122).
The State Health Services Cost Review Commission was established in 1971 to monitor all fiscal affairs of Maryland's hospitals and related institutions (Chapter 627, Acts of 1971). 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.
The Commission consists of seven members appointed to four-year terms by the Governor, who names the chair. Authorization for the Commission continues until July 1, 2003 (Code Health - General Article, secs. 19-201 through 19-222).
The Administration develops and implements priority projects. The Administration devises initiatives and conducts technical analyses needed to address departmental, gubernatorial or legislative concerns. It analyzes evaluations and statistics for policy decisions.
The Administration devises information-processing strategies and implements the policy, procedures, and controls required for automation programs. The Administration also provides systems analysis, programming and data communications, and training and computer operation services for the Department's information systems throughout the State.
Under the Administration are four divisions: Information Technology Support; Computer Operations; Information Systems; and Policy, Planning, and Administration.
The Medical Care Finance and Compliance Administration began in 1975 as the Medical Care Compliance Administration. In November 1993, the Administration merged with the Office of Administration and Finance to form the Medical Care Finance and Compliance Administration. By developing and implementing procedures to monitor and control the delivery of health care services, the Administration assures that benefits of the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) are used effectively. The Administration designs computer applications to detect aberrant practices; administers systems to require preauthorization for certain services; and investigates and refers fraud for prosecution. By recovering reimbursements from all liable third parties, the Administration also ensures that Medicaid is the payor of last resort.
The Administration has eight divisions: Administrative Services; Audit; Budget; Long-Term Care; Program Services and Review; Provider Reimbursement; Quality Assurance Services; and Recipient Services.
To assure that providers of health care services comply with federal and State laws, regulations, plans, and policies, the Division develops and implements policies, guidelines, standards, and procedures. For the Medical Assistance Program, the Division monitors and evaluates services and the degree to which they are used; and designs, develops, and implements standards and mechanisms for detecting fraud or misuse of the Program. Generally, providers who misuse the Program are required to reimburse funds. Cases of suspected fraud are referred to the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Office of the Attorney General.
The Division is responsible for the use and eligibility review of the Medical Assistance Program. The Division oversees corrective managed care, diabetes care, and hospice care; and quality assurance for these programs, and for health maintenance organizations, and the Maryland Access to Care Program. The Division investigates and refers for prosecution and money recoveries fraud cases involving recipients of the Medical Assistance Program and the Pharmacy Assistance Program; identifies and refers recipients who have misused benefits; and oversees the recipient component of the surveillance and utilization review subsystem of Medicaid Management Information System. The Division also is responsible for projects relating to child abuse and to the use of Medicaid services.
The Medical Care Operations Administration began in 1975. It reorganized as the Program Systems and Operations Adminstration in November 1993. The Administration reclaimed its original name in July 1997.
The Medical Care Operations Administration develops and maintains systems for prompt and accurate payment to providers of health care services. It maintains files of approved providers of services and of Maryland residents certified as eligible to receive services through the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid).
The Administration directs two divisions: Program Operations, and Technical Operations.
HEALTHCHOICE
KIDNEY DISEASE PROGRAM
RECIPIENT ELIGIBILITY PROGRAMS
Recipient Eligibility Programs is responsible for systems and procedures that update the Recipient Eligibility Master File; produce and issue Medical Care Program identification cards; and resolve eligibility problems. It also oversees the Pharmacy Assistance Program and the Buy-In Programs for Medicare (Parts A and B). Under the Buy-In Programs for Medicare, the State, through the Medical Assistance Program, 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 CLAIMS PROCESSING
DIVISION OF MEDICAID INFORMATION SYSTEMS
DIVISION OF MEDICAL ASSISTANCE RECOVERIES
The Division operates third-party liability programs. Through these, other responsible parties are pursued for payment of health care received under the Medical Assistance Program, and money spent on behalf of recipients is recovered from sources allowed by federal or State law.
MEDICAID MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (MMIS - II) PROJECT
The Medical Care Policy Administration began as the Policy Administration in 1975. It was renamed the Health Systems Financing Administration in 1987. The Administration received its present name in March 1990.
The Administration develops and reviews policies and regulations that establish eligibility criteria, define services, detail coverage, specify limitations, and determine reimbursement rates for the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid). In addition, it 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 Administration reorganized under three main units: Acute and Primary Care; Eligibility and Administration; and Long-Term Care. The Administration is aided by the Maryland Medicaid Advisory Committee.
The Committee advises the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene on implementation, operation, and evaluation of managed care programs for Medicaid recipients. It 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 and Mental Hygiene. Two are appointed by the Senate President, and three by the House Speaker. Three serve ex officio.
DIVISION OF CHILDREN'S SERVICES
DIVISION OF MANAGED CARE
DIVISION OF MEDICAL SERVICES
DIVISION OF OUTREACH & WOMEN'S SERVICES
DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
DIVISION OF MEDICAID ELIGIBILITY
DIVISION OF LONG-TERM CARE SERVICES
DIVISION OF PLANNING & EVALUATION
The Division develops strategies for financing and delivering services to persons with special needs who are eligible for 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.
DIVISION OF WAIVER PROGRAMS
The Division coordinates and manages three home- and community-based services waivers: the Model Waiver, Senior Assisted-Housing Waiver, and Developmental Disabilities Waiver. The Division also directs nine targeted case-management services programs, and two managed-care waivers and proposals (Maryland Access to Care and the Diabetes Care Waiver).
Health Professionals Boards and Commissions began as the Division of Boards and Commissions. The Division was reorganized in 1986 as the Office of Boards and Commission Programs and, in 1993, received its present name. This office is responsible for the examination, licensing, regulation, and surveillance of health professionals in Maryland.
Under Health Professionals Boards and Commissions are the State Commission on Kidney Disease and sixteen licensing and regulatory boards:
The State Acupuncture Board was created in 1994 (Chapter 620, Acts of 1994). The Board regulates the practice of acupuncture in Maryland.
The Board's seven members are appointed to three-year terms by the Governor (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 1A-101 through 1A-502).
The State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, and Speech-Language Pathologists originated from three separate boards. 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 were formed 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 received its present name (Chapter 448, Acts of 1993). The Board licenses audiologists, hearing aid dispensers, and speech-language pathologists.
The Board is composed of thirteen members appointed to four-year terms by the Governor on recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2004 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 2-101 through 2-501).
The State Board of Chiropractic Examiners was formed in 1920 (Chapter 666, Acts of 1920). The Board examines applicants for licenses and addresses complaints in consultation with the Investigative Unit and the Office of the Attorney General. The Board conducts two examinations per year - one in March and one in September. It ascertains whether schools of chiropractic meet the requirements of the law. Each person holding a chiropractic license in Maryland must renew it every two years with the secretary of the Board.
The Board consists of seven members appointed by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene and Senate advice and consent. Members serve four-year terms. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2002 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 3-201 through 3-602).
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.
The Board also certifies dental radiation technologists. An individual may not practice dental radiation technology in Maryland unless certified by the Board.
The Governor appoints the Board's twelve members for four-year terms with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene. Two consumer members are appointed with the advice of the Secretary and Senate advice and consent. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2003 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 4-101 through 4-702).
The State Board of Dietetic Practice was created in 1985 to protect the public by setting standards for the practice of dietetics in Maryland (Chapter 773, Acts of 1985). The Board licenses dietitians and nutritionists in Maryland. Licenses to practice dietetics must be renewed with the Board every two years.
The Board has seven members appointed to four-year terms by the Governor. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2005 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 5-101 through 5-502).
The State Board of Electrologists was organized in 1978 (Chapter 851, Acts of 1978). The Board adopts and revises standards of electrology practice for registered electrologists and prescribes standards for educational programs leading to licensure. The Board examines and licenses qualified applicants. The Board 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.
The Board consists of five members who serve four-year terms. Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Governor appoints members with Senate advice and consent. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2004 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 6-101 through 6-702).
The State Commission on Kidney Disease was created in 1971 (Chapter 492, Acts of 1971). The Commission oversees a program of State assistance throughout Maryland for persons with chronic renal disease.
The Commission gathers and disseminates information on the treatment of chronic renal disease in the State. 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 13-307).
The State Board of Morticians was established as the State Board of Undertakers of Maryland in 1902 (Chapter 160, Acts of 1902). In 1937, it was renamed the State Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers. The Board received its present name in 1981 (Chapter 8, Acts of 1981).
Every funeral director and mortician in the State 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. The Board renews licenses every two years 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.
Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene and with Senate consent, the Governor appoints the Board's twelve members to four-year terms. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2002 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 7-101 through 7-602).
Established in 1970, the State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators examines, licenses, and registers nursing home administrators (Chapter 262, Acts of 1970). 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.
The Board is composed of eleven members appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene. The Governor names the chair and vice-chair. The Board appoints the executive secretary. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2003 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 9-101 through 9-502).
The State Board of Occupational Therapy Practice was created in 1978 (Chapter 909, Acts of 1978). The Board administers, coordinates, and enforces the provisions of the Maryland Occupational Therapy Practice Act. 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.
The Board's seven members are appointed for four-year terms by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2004 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 10-201 through 10-502).
Formed in 1914, the State Board of Examiners in Optometry administers the optometry laws of the State and 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 and Mental Hygiene from nominees of the Maryland Optometric Association. Two members are consumers appointed by the Governor on recommendation of the Secretary with Senate advice and consent. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2003 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 11-101 through 11-602).
Created in 1902, the State Board of Pharmacy licenses pharmacists by examination and reciprocity (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 Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Board enforces the pharmacy and drug laws of the State.
Board members and duly authorized agents of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene inspect all pharmacies or other places where prescriptions, medicines, drugs, drug products, or domestic remedies are compounded or sold. 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.
The Board's twelve members include ten licensed pharmacists and two consumers. All are appointed by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene for four-year terms. The Board may designate an executive director. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2003 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 12-101 through 12-802).
PHARMACY REVIEW COMMITTEE
Authorized in 1947, the State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners examines and licenses physical therapists and physical therapist assistants to practice in Maryland (Chapter 606, Acts of 1947). The Board also makes rules and regulations governing the denial, suspension, and revocation of licenses.
The Board's eight members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene. Two consumer members are named with Senate advice and consent. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2002 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 13-101 through 13-502).
The State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners was created 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).
The Board examines all persons who wish to practice podiatry in the State. Examinations (written, oral, or practical) are given twice yearly. Applicants must have at least two years of education in a recognized college of arts and sciences and be graduates of a college of podiatric medicine recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association. The Board biennially licenses podiatrists in active practice within the State. The Board may, after a hearing, revoke the license of any podiatrist charged with malpractice or unethical conduct.
The Governor appoints the Board's seven members to five-year terms with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene. Two are consumers appointed with Senate advice and consent. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2002 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 16-101 through 16-602).
The State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors originated in 1985 (Chapter 734, Acts of 1985). The Board certifies professional counselors and regulates professional counseling services within the State.
With the advice of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Governor appoints the Board's six members to four-year terms. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2004 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 17-101 through 17-502). Since 1997, the Governor has been authorized to appoint an advisor to the Board (Chapter 461, Acts of 1997).
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.
The Board consists of nine members appointed by the Governor with the advice of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene and Senate advice and consent. Members serve four-year terms. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2003 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 18-101 through 18-502).
The State Board of Social Work Examiners was formed in 1975 (Chapter 453, 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 seven members are appointed by the Governor for four-year terms. Two are consumers appointed on recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene with Senate advice and consent. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2004 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 19-201 through 19-502).
The State Board of Nursing originated as the State Board of Examiners of Nurses in 1904 (Chapter 172, Acts of 1904). It received 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, and nurse psychotherapists. The Board administers licensure examinations and issues licenses to those who successfully have completed requirements and examinations. The Board evaluates, monitors and approves nursing education programs; enforces the standards and defines the scope of nursing practice; 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.
The Board cooperates with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing 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 Office on Aging, county health departments, local school systems, and Department agencies.
Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Governor appoints the Board's eleven members for four-year terms. Two members are consumers appointed with Senate advice and consent. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2003 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 8-101 through 8-802).
NURSE ANESTHETIST PEER REVIEW ADVISORY COMMITTEE
NURSE-MIDWIFE PEER REVIEW ADVISORY COMMITEE
JOINT COMMITTEE ON NURSE-MIDWIFERY
NURSE PRACTITIONER JOINT COMMITTEE
The Committee has six members. Three are appointed by the State Board of Physician Quality Assurance and three by the State Board of Nursing.
NURSE PRACTITIONER PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE
NURSE PSYCHOTHERAPIST PEER REVIEW ADVISORY COMMITTEE
PRACTICE ISSUES COMMITTEE
REHABILITATION COMMITTEE no. 1
The State Board of Nursing selects each committee's five members who are licensed registered nurses with expertise in the field of chemical dependency or psychiatric nursing. One member is a licensed practical nurse, and one, a consumer knowledgeable in the field of chemical dependency (Code Health Occupations Article, sec. 8-208).
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 (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 provided for 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 were combined in 1988 under the State Board of Physician Quality Assurance (Chapter 109, Acts of 1988).
The State Board of Physician Quality Assurance 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 seven categories of allied health practitioners, including physician assistants, psychiatrists' assistants, respiratory care practitioners, medical radiation technologists, nuclear medical technologists, cardiac rescue technicians, and emergency medical technicians-paramedics. 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 U.S. 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.
Composed of fifteen members, the Board is appointed by the Governor. One consumer member is appointed to an initial term of three years with Senate advice and consent. Other members serve four-year terms. The Governor selects a physician member as chair. Authorization for the Board continues until July 1, 2003 (Code Health Occupations Article, secs. 14-101 through 15-502).
MEDICAL RADIATION & NUCLEAR MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MEDICAL SPECIALTY COMMITTEE
Operations supports the Department through financial planning, expenditure control, personnel management, data processing, general services, grants administration, and capital construction. The Deputy Secretary of Operations also aids the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene in matters involving other State agencies, the legislature, the gubernatorial staff, and the federal government.
Under the Deputy Secretary for Operations are the Budget Management Office and four administrations: Fiscal Services; General Services; Personnel Services; and Vital Statistics. Operations also is responsible for six offices: Appointments and Executive Nominations; Community Relations; Governmental Affairs; Planning and Capital Financing; Public Relations; and Volunteer Services.
OFFICE OF APPOINTMENTS & EXECUTIVE NOMINATIONS
The Office recruits and screens candidates for health regulatory boards and commissions, task forces, and citizen advisory boards whose members are appointed by the Governor or the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene.
OFFICE OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS
OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS
OFFICE OF PLANNING & CAPITAL FINANCING
OFFICE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS
VOLUNTEER SERVICES UNIT
The Budget Management Office began as the Financial Planning Administration and received its present name in 1997. The Office monitors and controls all Department financial affairs, including liaison with the Department of Budget and Management and the General Assembly. The Administration oversees budget preparation and review, expenditure management, funding enhancement, rate setting, cost analysis, and fiscal policy. Administration functions are carried out by two divisions: Budget Analysis; and Program Costs and Analysis.
Functions of the Fiscal Services Administration were organized by 1923 under the Bureau of Personnel and Accounts, which was responsible for fiscal administration of the Department of Health. The Administration analyzes and provides fiscal, accounting and contracting services for the statewide operation of major Department programs and health care facilities. The Administration develops systems, policies, and procedures for the Department's fiscal management in coordination with regulatory or control agencies, the General Assembly, and the federal government.
Under the Administration are six divisions: Auditing; Contracts; Financial Management Information System (FMIS) and Telecommunications; General Accounting; Internal Audits; and Reimbursements.
The General Services Administration originated as the Office of General Administration by 1973. The Office was renamed the General Administrative Services Administration by 1983 and, by 1985, received its current name.
The General Services Administration provides support services for supplies and procurement, space allocation, fleet management, mail, photocopying, building services, and capital construction. Coordination and technical assistance are provided statewide to maintenance and engineering projects; asbestos identification and abatement; and abatement of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are toxic chemicals found in insulating oils for electric transformers and switch gear.
The Administration directs two divisions: Central Services, and Engineering and Maintenance.
The Personnel Services Administration originated as the Office of Personnel Management and received its present name in 1988. The Administration provides personnel services and training for the Department.
Under the Administration are eight divisions: Administrative Services; Classification and Compensation; Employer/Employee Relations; Employment Services; Payroll and Timekeeping; Recruitment and Examination; Testing Services; and Training Services.
The Vital Statistics Administration was formed in November 1998 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.
The Administration is responsible for three divisions: Field Services; Health Statistics; and Vital Records.
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.
The Division of Vital Records was organized in 1910 as the Bureau of Vital Statistics (Chapter 560, Acts of 1910). In 1951, it was 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.
The Division provides copies of certified birth, death, and marriage certificates. All births, deaths, marriages, and divorces that occur in the State are registered. Copies of birth, death and marriage records are issued to authorized persons for a fee of $4.00 per copy (checks to be made payable to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene).
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 June 1951 and of all divorce records may be obtained from the Circuit Court clerk in the county where the marriage or divorce occurred, or from the State Archives.
Public Health Services was established in 1987. The Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services is responsible for the Office of Chief Medical Examiner and six administrations: AIDS; Alcohol and Drug Abuse; Community and Public Health; Developmental Disabilities; Laboratories; and Mental Hygiene.
The Commission's seven members are appointed to three-year terms by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. Authorization for the Commission continues until September 30, 1999 (Code Health - General Article, secs. 13-801 through 13-810).
Established in 1987 as the AIDS Control Administration, the Administration received its present name in 1988. The AIDS Administration educates the public and health care professionals about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and the human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV); monitors the disease in Maryland; and provides services for persons with AIDS or infected with HIV. 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 AIDS Administration funds clinical activities for the diagnosis and evaluation of patients with AIDS. It also administers grants to community organizations for gay and minority outreach efforts.
The Administration is organized under two main functions: Epidemiology and Research, and HIV Services.
CENTER FOR EPIDEMIOLOGY & HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH
Through case surveillance, epidemiologic investigations, and seroprevalence and other studies, the Center determines the impact of the AIDS/HIV epidemic in Maryland. Data and information derived from studies are used by the Center and other organizations to design programs for prevention and health care, and support requests for federal funds.
CENTER FOR EDUCATION & TRAINING
The Center for Education and Training 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 will consult with the patient's health-care provider to help that provider meet the patient's complex medical needs. The Center also operates the Maryland AIDS Drug Assistance Program which covers the cost of specified drugs for eligible persons.
When the Center for Quality Assessment and Improvement was abolished in 1997, most of its functions were assigned to the Center for Education and Training. Among these functions 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.
CENTER FOR HIV PATIENT SERVICES
The Center develops resources to meet the needs of AIDS/HIV patients and analyzes cost data on the treatment of HIV. In Maryland, the Center administers the Ryan White CARE Act program, which is federally funded (P.L. 101-381). Through this and other federal programs, the Center helps support HIV services throughout the State.
CENTER FOR PREVENTION PROGRAMS
Funded by federal, State and local government, the Division provides HIV health education and counseling, at no charge, to any Marylander, as well as voluntary HIV antibody testing. Efforts are made selectively to test, counsel, and refer for treatment and other services 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.
The Alcohol and Drug Abuse Administration started as two separate agencies: one concerned with alcoholism and the other with addiction to narcotics. Formed in 1969, the Drug Abuse Authority was succeeded in 1971 by the Drug Abuse Administration (Chapter 404, Acts of 1969; Chapter 29, Acts of 1971). The Division of Alcoholism Control of the former Mental Health Administration became the Alcoholism Control Administration in 1976 (Chapter 746, Acts of 1976). By departmental reorganization in 1987, the Drug Abuse Administration and the Alcoholism Control Administration merged to become the Addictions Services Administration. In 1988, the Administration was renamed the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Administration (Chapter 758, Acts of 1988; Code Health - General Article, Title 8).
Functions of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Administration are carried out by four main units: Criminal Justice/Policy, Planning, and Development/Special Populations; Grants, Contracts, and Administration; Management Information, Continuous Quality Improvement, and Office of Education and Training for Addiction Services; and Prevention and Treatment. The Administration also is served by the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Research Advisory Committee.
POLICY & PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
SPECIAL POPULATIONS DIVISION
For adolescents addicted to drugs or alcohol, and for their families, the Special Populations Division develops, monitors, and funds assessment and treatment services. Youths under age 18 or, if eligible for Medical Assistance, under age 21, and their families may secure help locally. Services include screening; clinical assessment; drug and alcohol education, and counseling; clinical intervention; case management; residential treatment and long-term continuing care; intensive outpatient and day treatment; and family therapy. Teenagers are referred by local schools, departments of social services, or offices of juvenile services for treatment. The Division also assists and monitors local public and private programs developing services for women, women with infants and children, and pregnant women.
SOCIAL SECURITY INCOME DRUG & ALCOHOL PROJECT
OFFICE OF EDUCATION & TRAINING FOR ADDICTION SERVICES
MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SERVICES
PREVENTION SERVICES DIVISION
TREATMENT SERVICES DIVISION
The Community and Public Health Administration originated from two agencies. The first was formed 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 second agency was the Family Health Administration formed in 1987. 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 was reorganized under its present name.
The Community and Public Health Administration oversees the local health departments in each county and Baltimore City to ensure that basic public health services are provided in all parts of Maryland. Under the 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 Mental Hygiene and the local governing body.
Under the Administration are the local health departments and four main divisions: Administrative, Policy and Management Support; Consumer Health and Facility Services; Family Health Services and Primary Care; and Prevention and Disease Control.
Today, local health departments in Maryland's twenty-three counties and Baltimore City are overseen by the Community and Public Health Administration.
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT SERVICES
OFFICE OF PUBLIC HEALTH ASSESSMENT
For the Administration and local health departments, the Office provides computer, planning, statistical and epidemiologic advice. The Office also conducts disease surveillance to help plan programs, devise policy, and determine research needs.
In cooperation with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, the Office conducts the Maryland Behavioral Risk Factor Survey. It manages the voluntary Abortion Surveillance System and conducts on-site reviews of local health departments. The Office also directs the writing, review, and use of annual Local Health Department Plans; develops and monitors Operational Plan objectives for the Community and Public Health Administration; and publishes annually the Local and Family Health Surveillance Data Book. In addition, the Office designs personal computer systems for tracking High Risk Infants; and provides special analyses for programs, such as Data-based Intervention Grants, Sample Size Requirements, and the Needs Assessments required by the federal Social Security law governing Maternal and Child Health Block Grants (Title V, sec. 501).
Consumer Health and Facility Services began 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 was reorganized as Consumer Health and Facility Services under the Community and Public Health Administration.
By eliminating or minimizing exposure to or consumption of unsafe commodities and substances, the Office prevents disease, disability, and death. The Office controls the manufacture, distribution, and sale of milk, food, and consumer products. In addition, the Office establishes and enforces regulations regarding campgrounds, migratory labor camps, mobile home parks, swimming pools, youth camps, and outdoor music festivals.
The Office supervises the Office of Environmental Health Coordination, the Office of Food Protection and Product Safety, Deer's Head Center, Western Maryland Center, and the Public Health Residency Program. It is aided by the Bottled Water Advisory Committee and the Youth Camp Safety Advisory Council.
DEER'S HEAD CENTER
Authorized in 1945, Deer's Head Center was established in 1950 (Chapter 994, Acts of 1945). It is a regional facility for chronically ill and elderly adults in need of medical and rehabilitation services or general medical care for chronic disease or terminal illness. The Center also operates a kidney dialysis facility for area residents.
Deer's Head Center provides the services of a chronic disease hospital (including a small hospice service) and a comprehensive care facility, as well as outpatient and end-stage kidney dialysis, and outpatient rehabilitation therapy. The licensed capacity for the Center is 188 hospital beds and 33 comprehensive care beds (Code Health - General Article, sec. 19-502).
WESTERN MARYLAND CENTER
Western Maryland Center began as Western Maryland State Hospital. Authorized in 1952, the Hospital opened in 1957 (Chapter 53, Acts of 1952).
The Center provides chronic or rehabilitation hospital care, and comprehensive or nursing home care. The Center also offers adult day care; end-stage kidney dialysis; and physical, occupational, and speech rehabilitation to outpatients. It has 117 licensed hospital beds and 58 licensed comprehensive care beds (Code Health - General Article, sec. 19-502).
OFFICE OF CHILDREN'S HEALTH
The Office of Children's Health had been known as the Office of Child Health Services since 1989 when it was made part of the Local and Family Health Administration. In 1993, the Office became the Office of Child Health. In 1994, the Office of Child Health and the Office of Children's Medical Services merged to form the Office of Child Health and Children's Medical Services. It was renamed the Office of Children's Health in 1995 and has been part of the Community and Public Health Administration since 1997.
For basic preventive services to safeguard the health of children, the Office 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 Office 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 Office offers training, consultation, and technical assistance to local health departments and the private sector.
The Office administers a joint federal, State and local program formerly called Crippled Children's Services, that has operated in Maryland since 1937 (Code Health - General Article, sec. 15-125). State funding for services to crippled children dates to at least 1922.
For children whose chronic illnesses or disabling conditions interfere with normal growth and development, the Office 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).
The Maryland State School Health Council was formed in 1946 by the State Department of Health and the State Department of Education. Reorganized in 1966, the Council advises the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the State Department of Education on the school health program. The Council helps develop and maintain programs to provide a healthful school environment, health and safety instruction, and school health services. It also 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.
OFFICE OF HEREDITARY DISORDERS
The first programs of the Office of Hereditary Disorders were initiated in 1964. The Division of Hereditary Disorders, formed in 1973, was reorganized as the Office of Hereditary Disorders in 1990. It was placed under Family Health Services and Primary Care in 1997.
The Office works to reduce the morbidity and mortality caused by genetic disorders and birth defects. The State program coordinated by the Office provides 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 maintains a reporting and information system on genetic disorders and birth defects to collect data and give 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.
The Program provides early identification and follow-up of hearing-impaired infants and infants who are at risk of developing a hearing impairment.
The Council consists of ten members appointed by the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene (Code Health - General Article, secs. 13-601 through 13-605).
OFFICE OF MATERNAL HEALTH & FAMILY PLANNING
The Office of Maternal Health and Family Planning originated in 1922 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 was made part of the Local and Family Health Administration in 1989 and renamed the Office of Maternal Health and Family Planning in 1990. It has been part of the Community and Public Health Administration since 1997.
The Office works to improve the health of women of childbearing age and their babies. With federal and State funds, the Office directs prenatal care and family planning services offered by local health departments and others. The Office also administers special grants to improve the reproductive health of adolescents and introduce new contraceptive techniques into the public health system.
OFFICE OF PRIMARY CARE SERVICES
The Office works through five programs: the Primary Care Cooperative Agreement; the Office of Rural Health; Physician Loan-Repayment Program; Primary Care for the Medically Indigent Program; and the Maryland Statewide Home-Health Agency.
OFFICE OF WOMEN, INFANTS & CHILDREN FOOD PROGRAM
Created by the Department in 1985, the Office of Women, Infants and Children Food Program was made part of the Family Health Administration in 1987. That administration was renamed the Local and Family Health Administration in 1989 and became the Community and Public Health Administration in 1997.
The Office administers the Maryland Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) under federal law (P.L. 95-627). The Program offers health and nutrition services, including supplemental foods, to pregnant, postpartum and breast-feeding women; infants to one year of age; and children to 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 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.
To improve the quality of life for arthritic individuals and their families, the Council coordinates the activities of public and private agencies, medical schools, and related professional groups. The Council makes recommendations to limit costs associated with arthritis prevention and treatment, and vocational training, as well as to improve services. The Council also develops and coordinates programs in vocational rehabilitation and industry to help arthritic individuals remain productive in the work force.
Through studies and proposals, the Council seeks to form an integrated State program of education and applied research in gerontology and geriatrics. The development of a strategic plan of patient education throughout Maryland is coordinated by the Council. The plan involves State and local health departments, private agencies, pharmaceutical companies, medical schools, and professional organizations.
The Council's fifteen members are appointed by the Governor, who designates the chair. Members serve four-year terms (Code Health - General Article, secs. 13-501 through 13-506).
STATE ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HEREDITARY & CONGENITAL DISORDERS
The Council gathers and disseminates information on the treatment of hereditary and congenital disorders in Maryland. 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.
The Council is composed of eleven voting members and five nonvoting members. Those voting serve four-year terms. They include nine members appointed by the Governor, one senator named by the Senate President, and one delegate chosen by the House Speaker. The nonvoting members are appointed by the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene (Code Health - General Article, secs. 13-103 through 13-109).
OFFICE OF CHRONIC DISEASE PREVENTION
The Office of Chronic Disease Prevention originated in the 1960s as the Regional Medical Program which later became the Adult Health Program. When the Local and Family Health Administration was formed in 1989, the Program was reorganized under it as the Office of Chronic Disease Prevention. The Office has been part of the Community and Public Health Administration since 1997 when it was placed under the Western Maryland Center.
The Office reduces the risk factors for chronic diseases and injuries and the complications of diabetes; assures tests for early detection and, if appropriate, diagnosis and treatment of disease. The Office also provides information to the public on rehabilitative services, treatment options for breast cancer, and breast reconstruction.
Under the Office are four divisions: Cancer Control; Cardiovascular Health and Nutrition; Diabetes Control; and Injury and Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation.
OFFICE OF EPIDEMIOLOGY & DISEASE CONTROL
The Office of Epidemiology and Disease Control began under the Community Health Surveillance and Laboratories Administration which became the Community and Public Health Administration in 1997. The Office works to control all communicable diseases affecting people in Maryland. The Office 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 Office supervises health programs for refugees and migrants.
The Office oversees four centers: Clinical Epidemiology; Community Epidemiology; Immunization; and Veterinary Public Health.
OFFICE OF HEALTH PROMOTION, EDUCATION, & TOBACCO CONTROL
The Office of Health Promotion, Education, and Tobacco Control was formed from the Division of Health Education in November 1993 as the Office of Health Promotion, Education, and Tobacco Use Prevention. It received its present name in 1997.
The Office is responsible for five programs: Health in Pregnancy, a smoking cessation program; Maryland Kids in Safety Seats (Maryland KISS); Migrant Health; Planned Approach to Community Health (PATCH); and Tobacco Use Prevention.
OFFICE OF INJURY PREVENTION
The Clearinghouse provides information on rehabilitation services to persons who have suffered amputation, stroke, spinal cord injury, or head trauma. The Service also responds to the needs of other disabled individuals and helps providers locate needed services. Inquiries are accepted from anywhere in Maryland (Code Health - General Article, sec. 20-108).
The Developmental Disabilities Administration originated 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 was reformed into a Directorate of Mental Retardation from which the Mental Retardation Administration was created in 1971. The Administration reorganized in 1982 as the Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Administration (Chapter 430, Acts of 1982). In 1986, the Administration received its present name (Chapter 637, Acts of 1986).
For persons with developmental disabilities and their families, the Developmental Disabilities Administration plans, develops, and directs a statewide comprehensive system of services. Among the services are programs for individuals with mental retardation, 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.
The Administration operates residential facilities and also provides funds for 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 7-1201).
The Administration operates four facilities: Brandenburg Center, Holly Center, Potomac Center, and Rosewood Center. The Community Services Advisory Commission and four citizens advisory boards also serve the Administration.
The Commission has thirteen members. Seven are appointed by the Governor. One represents the State Department of Education. One is a state senator appointed by the Senate President, and one is a delegate appointed by the House Speaker (Code Health - General Article, sec. 7-204).
ROSEWOOD CENTER
Rosewood Center was established in 1888 as the Asylum and Training School for the Feeble Minded of the State of Maryland (Chapter 183, Acts of 1888). The Asylum and Training School first admitted children in 1889. From 1912 to 1961, it was known as Rosewood State Training School. In 1961, the School became Rosewood State Hospital (Chapter 89, Acts of 1961). When the departments of Health and Mental Hygiene merged in 1969, the Hospital was renamed Rosewood Center.
The Center provides for the care, education, training, and habilitation of persons with mental retardation from Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Harford and Howard counties and Baltimore City. Specialized services to manage behavior also are available. Rosewood is funded to serve a daily average of 290 residents (Code Health - General Article, sec. 7-305).
HOLLY CENTER
The Holly Center was established in 1968 as the Regional Mental Retardation Center - Eastern Shore (Chapter 435, Acts of 1968). It was renamed the Holly Center
in 1973.
The Center is funded to serve a daily average of 196 residents. Residential and training services are offered to individuals with mental retardation and their families residing in the nine counties of the Eastern Shore. Education, training, and habilitation services and programs are provided both in the Center and the community (Code Health - General Article, sec. 7-305).
BRANDENBURG CENTER
Opened in 1978 as the Thomas B. Finan Center - Mental Retardation Unit, the Center came to be known as Western Maryland II. In 1981, the Center was renamed in memory of Joseph D. Brandenburg, a Cumberland resident who distinguished himself through years of service to persons with mental retardation.
Brandenburg Center is a multipurpose health facility serving the residential needs of individuals with mental retardation in Western Maryland from Garrett to Carroll counties. The Center provides occupational, physical, speech and hearing therapies; social services; and medical supervision for its clients. It habilitates clients so they may return to the community. The Center is funded for a daily average of 68 people. (Code Health - General Article, sec. 7-305).
POTOMAC CENTER
The Potomac Center originated in 1978 as Western Maryland I - Mental Retardation Center. It became the Potomac Center in 1981.
The Center serves as a residence for persons with mental retardation in Western Maryland from Garrett to Carroll counties (Code Health - General Article, sec. 7-305). It provides comprehensive habilitative services to expedite the return of clients to a less restrictive environment.
Persons of all ages and at all levels of retardation are served by the Center. It is funded to serve a daily average of 117 people.
The Laboratories Administration was formed by the Department as the Community Health Surveillance and Laboratories Administration in 1987 and received its present name in January 1997. The Administration is responsible for two offices: Drug Control; and Laboratories.
The Office originated in 1951 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 was reorganized in 1987 as the Office of Drug Control and placed under the Community Health Surveillance and Laboratories Administration. The Administration was renamed the Community and Public Health Administration in 1997.
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 1957, Art. 27, secs. 276-302). Office programs focus on physicians, dentists, veterinarians, pharmacists, manufacturers, distributors, pharmacies, and nonpharmacy establishments.
Formerly the Laboratories Administration, the Laboratories Office became part of the Community Health Surveillance and Laboratories Administration in 1987. The Administration was renamed the Community and Public Health Administration in 1997.
The Office has broad responsibilities for laboratory testing to help physicians and health officials prevent, diagnose, and control human diseases. The Office 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. Laboratory tests are conducted to support State occupational safety and health regulations and to enforce pure food and drug laws.
The Office develops standards and regulations for medical laboratories, tissue banks, and physician office laboratories to ensure the quality of laboratory services. It also certifies and periodically inspects laboratories that examine water and dairy products for shipment out of Maryland. In addition to a central laboratory in Baltimore and seven branch laboratories, the Office oversees five divisions: Administrative and Support Systems; Environmental Chemistry; Microbiology; Quality Assurance, Safety, and Training; and Virology and Immunology.
The Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene appoints the Committee. Every two years, the Secretary designates a chair.
The Mental Hygiene Administration originated in 1886 as the State Lunacy Commission (Chapter 487, Acts of 1886). The Commission was established to inspect public and private institutions for the insane and to advise their boards of managers. In 1922, the Commission was replaced by the Board of Mental Hygiene (Chapter 29, Acts of 1922). The Board, in turn, was superseded by the Department of Mental Hygiene in 1949 (Chapter 685, Acts of 1949). The 1949 law abolished not only the Board of Mental Hygiene, but also the separate governing boards of the State mental hospitals, and gave the Department of Mental Hygiene responsibility for the custody, care, and treatment of mentally ill persons. The Department of Mental Hygiene became part of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in 1969 and subsequently was reorganized as the Mental Hygiene Administration (Chapter 77, Acts of 1969).
Nine mental health centers are overseen by the Administration:
The Administration also is responsible for the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, and four residential treatment centers for youth:
The Director of Mental Hygiene heads the Administration. Certified in psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, the Director is appointed by the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene. With the approval of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Director of Mental Hygiene is empowered to make State grants-in-aid to further community mental health services (Chapter 125, Acts of 1966). The Director supervises programs receiving these grants-in-aid (Code Health - General Article, secs. 10-101 through 10-1203). Local mental health advisory committees also are authorized for each county and Baltimore City (Code Health - General Article, secs. 10-308 through 10-312).
The Council's eighteen members are appointed by the Governor for three-year terms (Code Health - General Article, secs. 10-301 through 10-305).
The Walter P. Carter Center began offering community mental health services to Baltimore City residents in 1967. These services now include inpatient and outpatient care, partial hospitalization, and emergency services. Psychiatric emergency service is available to area residents twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Consultation and education services are provided to various community agencies (Code Health - General Article, sec. 10-406).
The Center also maintains three units at other sites that provide treatment for adults, adolescents, and children: Benson Avenue Outpatient Clinic, Carruthers Clinic, and Cherry Hill Clinic.
HIGHLAND HEALTH FACILITY PSYCHIATRIC UNIT
Located on the grounds of Francis Scott Key Medical Center, the Highland Health Facility Psychiatric Unit was established in 1972. The Unit provides psychiatric treatment for residents of Baltimore City in close coordination with two local community mental health programs: Bayview, and Harbel, a day care program. The Unit is presently funded for 35 beds (Code Health - General Article, sec. 10-406).
OFFICE OF SECRETARY
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
PANEL TO REVIEW OFF-LABEL USES OF DRUGS
The Panel to Review Off-Label Uses of Drugs was authorized in 1994 (Chapter 647, Acts of 1994). The Panel reviews particular cases in which there is a dispute about medical insurance payments for off-label use of drugs. The Panel investigates drugs prescribed for treatments other than those approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration and advises the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene whether a particular off-label use is medically appropriate. The Secretary forwards Panel recommendations to the Maryland Insurance Commissioner who may direct insurers to pay for the drug (Code 1957, Art. 48A, sec. 490AA).
OFFICE OF QUALITY ASSURANCE
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES, SUBSTANCE ABUSE & COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM
Functions of the Developmental Disabilities, Substance Abuse and Community Mental Health Program began in 1992 as Long-Term Care, Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Programs. The work of these units was reorganized in 1995 into two units and the Substance Abuse and Community Mental Health Program was formed. In 1995, as well, the Developmental Disabilities and Ambulatory Care Program was created. Its ambulatory care functions were reassigned in 1997. The Program was reorganized under its present name in 1997.
HOSPITALS & COMPLAINT PROGRAM, & AMBULATORY CARE PROGRAM
The Hospitals and Complaint Program began as the Hospitals and Ambulatory Care Program and was formed under its present name in 1995. The Program evaluates all hospitals and responds to consumer complaints against health-care facilities, services, and programs. The Program also coordinates the statewide Geriatric Nursing Assistant Registry.
LABORATORY PROGRAM
The Laboratory Program evaluates and surveys some 2,000 laboratories, including physician office laboratories, to determine compliance with State and federal laws and regulations. The Program also coordinates and manages the State and federal Cytology Proficiency Testing Program for individuals who interpret pap smears.
LONG-TERM CARE PROGRAM
Within the Licensing and Certification Administration, the Long-Term Care Program originated under its current name before it was reformed in 1992 as Long-Term Care, Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Programs. Reorganized in 1995 as the Long-Term Care Program, it evaluates and surveys nursing homes, adult day-care centers, and licensed and registered domiciliary-care homes.
HEALTH CARE POLICY, FINANCE, & REGULATION
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
OFFICE OF REGULATIONS COORDINATION
The Office of Regulations Coordination provides a central clearinghouse for health regulations. Here, regulations are reviewed and revised. The Office provides technical assistance to administrative units of the Department.
BOARD OF REVIEW
The Board of Review of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene was established in 1969 (Chapter 77, Acts of 1969). The Board decides appeals of departmental decisions as provided by law.
The Deputy Secretary for Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulation plans, directs, and evaluates the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid). The Program provides access to health care for categorically and medically needy residents throughout Maryland. 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 the Medical Care Finance and Compliance Administration, the Medical Care Operations Administration, and the Medical Care Policy Administration.
MARYLAND HEALTH CARE ACCESS & COST COMMISSION
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON PRACTICE PARAMETERS
The Advisory Committee on Practice Parameters was established in 1993 (Chapter 9, Acts of 1993). The Committee studies the development of practice parameters for medical specialties and advises the Maryland Health Care Access and Cost Commission on the adoption and use of practice parameters. These parameters are intended to define appropriate clinical indications and methods of treatment for individual procedures or diseases that are subject to medical malpractice litigation. The parameters are meant to discourage inappropriate use of health care services; conform with standards of care; and meet certification, licensure or accreditation standards.
STATE HEALTH RESOURCES PLANNING COMMISSION
4201 Patterson Ave., Room 226
Baltimore, MD 21215
STATE HEALTH SERVICES COST REVIEW COMMISSION
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215
HEALTH SERVICES ANALYSIS & EVALUATION ADMINISTRATION
The Health Services Analysis and Evaluation Administration originated in 1984 as the Office of Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation. In 1987, it was reorganized as the Policy Analysis Administration and, in 1988, as the Policy and Health Statistics Administration. In 1995, the Administration was made part of Business and Regulatory Services. Renamed the Health Services Analysis and Evaluation Administration, the Administration was placed under Health Care Policy, Finance,and Regulation in April 1997.
INFORMATION RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ADMINISTRATION
The Information Resources Management Administration originated by 1967 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 was 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 was made part of the Program Systems and Operations Administration in November 1993. By July 1997, Information Services reorganized as the Information Resources Management Administration.
MEDICAL CARE FINANCE & COMPLIANCE ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St., Room 200
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
LONG-TERM CARE DIVISION
The Long-Term Care Division was organized in 1987. The Division reviews and controls the use of long-term care services provided by special chronic, psychiatric and rehabilitation hospitals; skilled and intermediate nursing facilities; home health and personal care programs; medical day care; and community placements for the developmentally disabled.
PROGRAM SERVICES & REVIEW DIVISION
The Program Services and Review Division was established in 1987 as the Division of Acute Care Services. It was renamed the Program Services and Review Division in 1997. The Division reviews and monitors the use of acute care services provided by general and special hospitals, physicians, and clinics reimbursed by the Medical Assistance Program.
QUALITY ASSUARANCE SERVICES DIVISION
The Quality Assurance Services Division organized in 1976 as the Division of Adjunct Services and adopted its present name in July 1997. The Division controls and monitors services provided to recipients of the Medical Assistance Program and the Pharmacy Assistance Program. These services cover ambulance and wheelchair vans; dental care; durable medical equipment and disposable supplies; hearing aids; laboratory; oxygen; pharmacy; physical therapy; podiatry; and vision care. The Division also contracts with the Maryland Pharmacists Association and the Center on Drugs and Public Policy of the University of Maryland System to review drug use.
RECIPIENT SERVICES DIVISION
The Recipient Services Division was formed in 1979 as the Division of Utilization and Eligibility Review. In July 1997, the Division received its present name.
MEDICAL CARE OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
PHARMACY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The Administration also manages the Pharmacy Assistance Program. For low-income families and individuals who are not eligible for Medicaid, this State-funded program helps pay for certain kinds of maintenance prescription drugs for chronic conditions; anti-infective drugs, including AZT; and insulin syringes and needles.PROGRAM OPERATIONS
Under Program Operations are HealthChoice; the Kidney Disease Program; and Recipient Eligibility Programs.
HealthChoice started 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 reorganized as HealthChoice in July 1998. To improve the quality of health care for Medical Assistance recipients, HealthChoice maintains a roster of primary care physicians. Recipients having 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.
The Kidney Disease Program was formed in 1971. The Program financially assists Marylanders who are certified end-stage renal disease patients. This assistance for treatment is available only after all other medical and federal insurance coverage has been pursued.
Recipient Eligibility Programs began as the Division of Programs and Liaison. The Division was renamed the Division of Eligibility Services in 1989 and was reorganized under its present name in November 1993.
TECHNICAL OPERATIONS
Under Technical Operations are the MMIS - II Project, and three divisions: Claims Processing; Medicaid Information Systems (MMIS); and Medical Assistance Recoveries.
The Division of Claims Processing started as the Division of Invoice Processing and received its present name in 1989. The Division processes all claims for payment made by providers of health care services under the Medical Assistance Program, the Pharmacy Assistance Program, and the Prenatal 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 $1.5 billion annually for 12 million claims received. The Division maintains records of payments to, as well as collection from, the more than 25,000 health care providers enrolled in the Medical Assistance Program. The Division also serves as a centralized purchasing and inventory unit for the Administration.
Established in 1982, the Division of Medicaid Information Systems serves as the data processing unit for Medical Care Programs. The Division performs systems analysis and programming, and maintains a teleprocessing network. It maintains and operates the Medicaid Management Information System (MMIS), an automated claims processing and information retrieval system mandated by the federal government. The Division also provides data processing for Geriatric Evaluation Services; Pharmacy Assistance Program; and Statewide Evaluation and Planning Services.
The Division of Medical Assistance Recoveries started in 1969. By 1993, it was made part of the Medical Care Fiannce and Compliance Administration. The Division was transferred to the Medical Care Operations Administration in February 1998.
Formed in 1993, the Medicaid Management Information System (MMIS - II) Project is working to replace the Medicaid Management Information System (MMIS). The Project will secure a certified MMIS from another state, enhance it to meet Maryland needs, install it on the State computer, and integrate it with new information systems technologies.
MEDICAL CARE POLICY ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
MARYLAND MEDICAID ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Maryland Medicaid Advisory Committee began as the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. It was created for the Medical Assistance Program 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).
ACUTE & PRIMARY CARE
Under Acute and Primary Care are four divisions: Children's Services; Managed Care; Medical Services; and Outreach and Women's Services.
The Division of Children's Services was organized in May 1998.
In July 1987, the Division of Managed Care began as the Division of Primary Care and received its present name in October 1997. 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, free-standing clinics, nurse-midwives, nurse anesthestists, nurse practitioners, and health maintenance organizations.
The Division of Medical Services was established in July 1979 as the Division of Acute Care. It became the Division of Medical Services in October 1997. The Division plans, prepares, and amends regulations, and interprets policy for the following parts of the Medical Assistance Program: Free-standing Dialysis Centers; Hospitals; Medical Laboratories; Residential Treatment Centers; and Pharmacy.
The Division of Outreach and Women's Services was formed in May 1998.
ELIGIBILITY & ADMINISTRATION
Eligibility and Administration works through three divisions: Administrative Services; Grants and Regulations; and Medicaid Eligibility.
The Division of Administrative Services was formed in March 1990. The Division conducts personnel transactions, prepares budgets, promulgates Medicaid regulations, and formulates amendments to the Medicaid State Plan.
The Division of Medicaid Eligibility started in 1978 as the Division of Eligibility Services and received its present name in October 1997. The Division establishes and maintains the regulatory base upon which eligibility for the Medical Assistance Program is determined statewide. This responsibility is met within the framework of the overall Medicaid Eligibility System. The System includes but is not limited to regulations and policies of the federal program and Department of Health and Mental Hygiene; State and local operations of the Department of Human Resources, which determines eligibility through its local departments of social services; and the management of the Medical Assistance Program within the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
LONG-TERM CARE
Under Long-Term Care are three divisions: Long-Term Care Services; Planning and Evaluation; and Waiver Programs.
The Division of Long-Term Care Services was organized in July 1979. The Division administers Maryland Medicaid coverage and reimbursement for nursing home services, medical day care, and personal care.
The Division of Planning and Evaluation formed 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.
The Division of Waiver Programs was one of two agencies derived from the former Division of Program Services in December 1994. The Division of Waiver Programs is concerned with Medical Assistance waivers. These are exceptions granted by the federal Health Care Financing Administration to certain federal regulations governing Medicaid. Such waivers are authorized when it becomes cost effective to do so, but only if the quality of medical care is maintained (federal Social Security Act, sec. 1915). Typically, waivers help people who otherwise would require a hospital, or a facility providing skilled nursing or intermediate care.
HEALTH PROFESSIONALS BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
State Acupuncture Board
State Board of Examiners for Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, & Speech-Language Pathologists
State Board of Chiropractic Examiners
State Board of Dental Examiners
State Board of Dietetic Practice
State Board of Electrologists
State Board of Morticians
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 Podiatric Medical Examiners
State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors
State Board of Examiners of Psychologists
State Board of Social Work ExaminersSTATE ACUPUNCTURE BOARD
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS FOR AUDIOLOGISTS, HEARING AID DISPENSERS, & SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF DENTAL EXAMINERS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF DIETETIC PRACTICE
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF ELECTROLOGISTS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE COMMISSION ON KIDNEY DISEASE
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF MORTICIANS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS OF NURSING HOME ADMINISTRATORS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PRACTICE
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN OPTOMETRY
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
In 1997, the State Board of Pharmacy was authorized to appoint a Pharmacy Review Committee (Chapter 615, Acts of 1997).
STATE BOARD OF PHYSICAL THERAPY EXAMINERS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF PODIATRIC MEDICAL EXAMINERS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS OF PSYCHOLOGISTS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF SOCIAL WORK EXAMINERS
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
STATE BOARD OF NURSING
4140 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2254
NURSE ANESTHETIST ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Formed in 1991, the Nurse Anesthetist Advisory Committee advises the State Board of Nursing on certified registered nurse anesthetist practice. The Committee's three members are appointed to three-year terms by the State Board of Nursing.
The Nurse Anesthetist Peer Review Advisory Committee started as the Anesthetist Advisory Committee in 1981 and received its present name in 1994. The Committee advises the State Board of Nursing concerning the practice of anesthesia by nurses. The Committee also oversees the use of health insurance and medical assistance benefits by certified nurse anesthetists. Appointed by the State Board of Nursing, the Committee's five members serve three-year terms (Code Health Occupations Article, sec. 8-503).
Appointed by the State Board of Nursing, the Nurse-Midwife Peer Review Advisory Committee was formed in 1983 as the Certified Nurse-Midwives Advisory Council. It received its present name in 1997. The Committee advises the Board on matters relating to the practice of nurse-midwifery. The Committee consists of at least three certified nurse-midwives who serve three-year terms (Code Health Occupations Article, sec. 8-503).
Established in 1983, the Joint Committee on Nurse-Midwifery reviews and makes recommendations on all written agreements between nurse-midwives and physicians. The Committee is composed of three nurse-midwives, appointed by the State Board of Nursing, and three physicians, appointed by the State Board of Physician Quality Assurance. Committee members serve three-year terms (Code Health Occupations Article, sec. 8-503).
The Nurse Practitioner Joint Committee was created in 1981. The Committee reviews written agreements between nurse practitioners and physicians. The Committee then makes recommendations to the State Board of Physician Quality Assurance and the State Board of Nursing.
Organized in 1981, the Nurse Practitioner Peer Review Committee oversees the use of health insurance and medical assistance benefits by certified nurse practitioners. The Committee, appointed by the State Board of Nursing, has ten nurse practitioners representing all nurse practitioner specialties (Code Health Occupations Article, sec. 8-503).
The Nurse Psychotherapist Peer Review Advisory Committee was formed in 1991. The Committee advises the State Board of Nursing on the practice of psychotherapy by clinical specialists in psychiatric and mental health nursing. The Committee also oversees the use of health insurance and medical assistance benefits by clinical specialists-psychiatry.
Established in 1985, the Practice Issues Committee meets monthly to study specific practice issues referred to it by the State Board of Nursing. The Committee's twelve members are assisted by consultant members as needed.
REHABILITATION COMMITTEE no. 2
The Rehabilitation Committee was authorized in 1988 as a nonpunitive alternative to the State Board of Nursing's disciplinary process (Chapter 508, Acts of 1988). Nurses whose job performance is impaired by drugs, alcohol, or mental illness may participate in the Rehabilitation Program upon recommendation of the Committee. In 1992, a second committee was established to handle the volume of nurses referred to the Program.
STATE BOARD OF PHYSICIAN QUALITY ASSURANCE
4201 Patterson Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 0095
LICENSURE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Licensure Advisory Committee was formed by the State Board of Physician Quality Assurance.
The Medical Radiation and Nuclear Medical Technology Advisory Committee began in 1990. The Committee reviews and makes recommendations to the State Board of Physician Quality Assurance on all applications for certification of nuclear medical technologists and medical radiation technologists. The Committee recommends to the Board the approval, modification, or disapproval of an application for certification. The Committee also recommends to the Board regulations governing nuclear medical technologists and medical radiation technologists and their practice.
The Medical Specialty Committee was established in 1989. The Committee formulates new regulations of criteria for specialty designation of physicians.
OPERATIONS
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
Formerly under Business and Regulatory Services, the Office of Appointments and Executive Nominations was transferred to Operations in 1997.
The Office of Community Relations began under the Personnel Services Administration and was placed under Operations in 1994. 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 for minority business participation in State contracts.
The Office of Governmental Affairs oversees constituent services and governmental relations.
The Office of Planning and Capital Financing began as the Office of Planning and Policy Management and received its present name in 1994. The Office prepares the Department's annual Executive Plan, the Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan, the Master Facilities Plan, and twenty individual facility plans. The Office also is responsible for the Department's annual capital budget, real estate transactions, and bond bill submission. Internal policies and procedures are developed and promulgated through the Office. The Office also conducts special studies requested by the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene or the General Assembly.
The Office of Public Relations directs public affairs of the Department and coordinates them with departmental officials, local health officers, and the Governor's Office. The Office of Public Relations also arranges special events and disseminates employee information.
The Volunteer Services Unit develops and directs the Department's thirty-two volunteer services programs statewide. These programs offer citizens and community groups the opportunity to aid and enhance the lives of residents of Department hospital centers and of patients in the community. The Chief serves as liaison to the Department's Council of Auxiliaries, a private, nonprofit service organization.
BUDGET MANAGEMENT OFFICE
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
FISCAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
PERSONNEL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
VITAL STATISTICS ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St., Room 544
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
DIVISION OF HEALTH STATISTICS
Functions of the Division of Health Statistics began in 1951 as part of the Division of Vital Records and Statistics, 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 was 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 was reorganized as a division in 1988.
DIVISION OF VITAL RECORDS
Reisterstown Road Plaza
6550 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
COMMUNITY SERVICES REIMBURSEMENT RATE COMMISSION
In 1996, the Community Services Reimbursement Rate Commission was formed as an independent unit that functions within the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (Chapter 593, Acts of 1996). The Commission assesses the adequacy of reimbursement rates paid to community-based agencies or programs that serve individuals with developmental or psychiatric disabilities and which are funded by the Developmental Disabilities Administration or the Mental Hygiene Administration. The Commission considers: 1) the needs of service recipients; 2) quality of service; 3) State and federal regulations; 4) staff turnover; 5) staff qualifications; and 6) solvency of providers. The Commission compares salaries and benefits in the private sector to those paid by the State. It evaluates the efficiency of the State's methods of reimbursing providers, and how much uncompensated care is being provided. In reporting its findings, the Commission may recommend changes in law or regulation.
AIDS ADMINISTRATION
500 North Calvert St., 5th floor
Baltimore, MD 21202
EPIDEMIOLOGY & RESEARCH
Epidemiology and Research oversees three centers: Epidemiology and Health Services Research; Evaluation and Planning; and Surveillance.
The Center for Epidemiology and Health Services Research started as the Center for AIDS Epidemiology and became the Center for AIDS Epidemiology and Analysis in 1997. It was reorganized as the Center for Epidemiology & Health Research in 1998, and later that year was combined with the Center for Health Data and given its present name.
HIV SERVICES
Under HIV Services are three centers: Education and Training; HIV Patient Services; and Prevention Programs.
The Center for Education and Training began in 1991 as the Division of Professional Education and Health Services. The Division was formed by merging the 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 was reorganized as the Center for Professional Education and Patient Services and, in 1997, received its present name.
The Center HIV Patient Services was established in 1989 as the Division of AIDS Services, Planning, and Development. The Division became the Center for AIDS Services, Planning, and Development in 1994. It was reorganized in 1997 as the Center for HIV Patient Services.
The Center for Prevention Programs also is known as the Maryland Center for AIDS-Related Educational Services (MDCARES). It began in 1987 as the Center for AIDS Education and received its present name in 1997. The Center develops, implements, and oversees programs designed to interrupt transmission of the AIDS/HIV infection. Prevention efforts help both the general population and individuals and communities at high risk of AIDS/HIV disease. The Center also is responsible for the AIDS hotline.
DIVISION OF LOCAL PREVENTION SERVICES
The Division of Local Prevention Services was first formed as the Division of HIV Counseling and Testing Services. In 1996, the Division was placed under the Center for AIDS Education and received its present name.
ALCOHOL & DRUG ABUSE ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
ALCOHOL & DRUG ABUSE TREATMENT RESEARCH ADVISORY COMMITTEE
In 1990, the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Research Advisory Committee was formed (Chapter 580, Acts of 1990). The Committee develops methodology for evaluating the effectiveness of treatment programs. The Committee also advises the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Administration on regulations needed for research on the effectiveness of treatment programs (Code Health - General Article, sec. 8-402).CRIMINAL JUSTICE/POLICY & PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT/SPECIAL POPULATIONS
CRIMINAL JUSTICE DIVISION
The Criminal Justice Division was formed in 1987 under the former Addictions Services Administration. The Division coordinates all evaluations of criminal defendants for drug and alcohol abuse, and all commitments for evaluation or treatment made by Circuit Courts and District Courts (Code Health - General Article, secs. 8-505 through 8-507). The Division also coordinates all education and treatment for those driving while intoxicated (DWI). The Division works closely with the Division of Parole and Probation, the Division of Correction, the Administrative Office of the Courts, the Motor Vehicle Administration, and local health departments.
The Policy and Program Development Division began as the Policy, Planning, and Development Division and received its present name in 1994. The Division formulates Administration policies, rules, and regulations governing alcohol and drug abuse treatment. The Division provides technical assistance to all methadone programs, oversees their compliance with State and federal regulations, and monitors private methadone programs. The Division also monitors treatment of pregnant addicts and compiles quarterly statistics on their admissions, retentions, and deliveries. In addition, the Division serves as liaison to the Federal Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.
The Special Populations Division began in Fiscal Year 1985 as a project of the Alcoholism Control Administration. It continued under the Special Projects Division when the Addictions Services Administration was formed in 1987. The following year, it was organized into the Youth, Adolescents, and Family Division. In 1993, The Division became the Children, Youth, and Families Division and in 1995 received its present name.
GRANTS, CONTRACTS, & ADMINISTRATION
Grants, Contracts, and Administration began as the Grants Management Division. In 1994, it became Administration and Grants Management, and received its present name in 1998. This office awards and monitors Administration monies for addictions treatment and prevention. Grants are received by local health departments, government agencies and private companies. As the Administration's fiscal agent, Grants, Contracts, and Administration works closely with the Division of Contracts of the Fiscal Services Administration, and with the Division of Program Costs and Analysis of the Budget Management Office of the Department.
Federally funded, the Social Security Income Drug and Alcohol Project certifies that Social Security recipients comply with federal eligibility standards. These require that all Social Security recipients with alcohol or drug abuse noted on their records be referred, where appropriate, to substance abuse programs and be monitored. The Social Security Administration refers to the Project persons, over age 18, whose primary disability is substance abuse. The Project, in turn, refers the person to vocational rehabilitation for continued treatment and services.
MANAGEMENT INFORMATION, CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT,
& OFFICE OF EDUCATION & TRAINING FOR ADDICTION SERVICES
Created in 1976, the Office of Education and Training for Addiction Services educates and trains public and private agency personnel who treat addicts and work to prevent addiction. The Office also helps devise curriculum and evaluates college and university courses on how to treat and prevent addiction.
Management Information Services develops and maintains agency data systems; reports and analyzes trends and patterns in alcohol and drug abuse, and assessment of treatment programs; and assists other Divisions with data, research, and computerized information systems. All certified providers of public and private treatment and DWI assessors must report to the Division.
PREVENTION & TREATMENT SERVICES
Prevention and Treatment Services began as Field Services and received its present name in 1998. Under this office are two divisions: Prevention Services; and Treatment Services.
The Prevention Services Division funds, develops, implements, and monitors strategies to prevent alcohol and drug addiction. The Division works with the Office for Children, Youth, and Families; the State Department of Education; the Department of Human Resources; and the Department of Transportation.
The Treatment Services Division was first organized as the Regional Field Services Division. In 1994, it was renamed the Treatment and Field Services Division and, in 1998, received its present name. To coordinate addiction treatment services, the Division serves as liaison between local and State government agencies.
COMMUNITY & PUBLIC HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St., 3rd floor
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
MARYLAND CANCER REGISTRY
The Maryland Cancer Registry was formed in July 1982. It 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). Formerly under the Department of the Environment, the Registry was transferred to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in 1991. Under contractual agreement with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Registry is operated by Tri-Analytics, Inc., of Bel Air, Maryland.MARYLAND CANCER REGISTRY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Maryland Cancer Registry Advisory Committee was created following the establishment of the Maryland Cancer Registry in July 1982. The Committee advises the State Council on Cancer Control on the operation of the Registry.LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENTS
Local health administration preceded the organization of a State health department by nearly a century, when, in 1793, Baltimore City established a health office to stop an epidemic of yellow fever. The first county health department was formed by Allegany County in 1922. By 1934, each Maryland county had established its own health department. State oversight of local departments was conducted within the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene by the Local Health Services Administration formed in 1969. The Administration reorganized by 1973 as the Local Health and Professional Support Services Administration and, by 1977, as the Local Health Administration. The latter was reformed into the Local and Family Health Administration in 1989. That administration was renamed the Community and Public Health Administration in 1997.
ADMINISTRATIVE, POLICY & MANAGEMENT SUPPORT
Administrative, Policy & Management Support directs four offices: Health Policy; Management Services; Public Health Assessment; and Quality Assessment and Improvement.
The Office of Management Services was formed in 1991 to consolidate administrative and fiscal functions of the Local and Family Health Administration (now the Community and Public Health Administration). In 1997, the Office was placed under Administrative, Policy and Management Suppport. The Office is responsible for budget preparation, grants management, personnel, accounts payable, legislation, and regulations.
The Office of Public Health Assessment began in 1991 as the Office of Planning, Evaluation, and Program Development within the Local and Family Health Administration. The Administration was renamed the Community and Public Health Administration in 1997.
CONSUMER HEALTH & FACILITY SERVICES
6 St. Paul St.
Baltimore, MD 21202
BOTTLED WATER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Bottled Water Advisory Committee was created in 1992 (Chapter 385, Acts of 1992). The Committee advises the Department on regulations governing bottled drinking water (Code Health - General Article, sec. 21-336).
P. O. Box 2018
Emerson Ave.
Salisbury, MD 21802 - 2018
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD FOR DEER'S HEAD CENTER
Upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Governor appoints the Board's seven members to four-year terms.
1500 Pennsylvania Ave.
Hagerstown, MD 21740
(301) 791-4410
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD FOR WESTERN MARYLAND CENTER
The Board's seven members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene.FAMILY HEALTH SERVICES & PRIMARY CARE
Under Family Health Services and Primary Care are five offices: Children's Health; Hereditary Disorders; Maternal Health and Family Planning; Primary Care Services; and Women, Infants and Children Food Program.
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
MARYLAND STATE SCHOOL HEALTH COUNCIL
c/o Baltimore County Health Department
One Investment Place, 11th floor
Towson, MD 21204 - 4125
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
PROGRAM TO IDENTIFY HEARING-IMPAIRED INFANTS
The Program to Identify Hearing-Impaired Infants was established under the Developmental Disabilities Administration in 1985 (Chapter 402, Acts of 1985). In 1990, the Program was 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 has been under the Community and Public Health Services Administration since 1997. The program was placed under the Office of Hereditary Disorders in 1998.
ADVISORY COUNCIL FOR PROGRAM TO IDENTIFY HEARING-IMPAIRED INFANTS
The Advisory Council for Program to Identify Hearing-Impaired Infants was created in 1985 (Chapter 402, Acts of 1985). The Council advises the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene on implementing the Program and on educational programs for families, professionals, and the public. The Council also reviews informational materials distributed by the Department.
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
The Office of Primary Care Services was formed within the Local and Family Health Administration in July 1994. Under the Community and Public Health Administration since 1997, the Office assures that basic health care is available to all Maryland residents regardless of their ability to pay.
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
PREVENTION & DISEASE CONTROL
Prevention and Disease Control is responsible for five main offices: Chronic Disease Prevention; Epidemiology and Disease Control; Health Promotion, Education, and Tobacco Control; Injury Prevention; and Oral Health. Prevention and Disease Control is aided by the State Advisory Council on Arthritis and Related Diseases; the State Advisory Council on Hereditary and Congenital Disorders; the State Advisory Council on High Blood Pressure and Related Cardiovascular Risk Factors; and the State Advisory Council on Physical Fitness.
STATE ADVISORY COUNCIL ON ARTHRITIS & RELATED DISEASES
The State Advisory Council on Arthritis and Related Diseases started as the State Commission on Arthritis and Related Diseases in 1985 (Chapter 250, Acts of 1985). The Council received its present name and was placed under the Local and Family Health Administration in 1992 (Chapter 71, Acts of 1992). In 1997, the Administration became the Community and Public Health Administration.
The State Advisory Council on Hereditary and Congenital Disorders formed in 1973 as the Commission on Hereditary Disorders (Chapter 695, Acts of 1973). It was renamed the State Commission on Hereditary and Congenital Disorders in 1986 (Chapter 740, Acts of 1986). The Commission was renamed the State Advisory Council on Hereditary and Congenital Disorders and placed under the Local and Family Health Administration in 1992 (Chapter 71, Acts of 1992). In 1997, the Administration became the Community and Public Health Administration.
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
300 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
CLEARINGHOUSE FOR REHABILITATION & TECHNOLOGY INFORMATION
The Clearinghouse for Rehabilitation and Technology Information began in 1984 as the Rehabilitation Information Service under the Office of Chronic and Rehabilitation Facilities (Chapter 416, Acts of 1984). In 1990, when the Service received federal funds through the Technology Assistance Program of the Office for Individuals with Disabilities, it assumed its present name. In 1991, the Clearinghouse was placed under the Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and, in 1995, under the Office of Children's Health.
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
COMMUNITY SERVICES ADVISORY COMMISSION
The Community Services Advisory Commission was created within the Developmental Disabilities Administration in 1986 (Chapter 797, Acts of 1986). The Commission annually updates a five-year plan to improve community services and programs for persons with developmental disabilities. The plan includes alternative ways and means to finance and expand services and programs.
CENTRAL MARYLAND REGION
The Regional Director for the Central Maryland Region oversees administration of community-based services and Rosewood Center.
Rosewood Lane
Owings Mills, MD 21117
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD FOR ROSEWOOD CENTER
The Board's seven members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene.EASTERN SHORE REGION
The Regional Director for the Eastern Shore Region oversees administration of community-based services and Holly Center.
P. O. Box 2358
Snow Hill Road (Route 12)
Salisbury, MD 21801 - 2358
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD FOR HOLLY CENTER
The seven members of the Board are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene.SOUTHERN MARYLAND REGION
The Regional Director for the Southern Maryland Region oversees administration of community-based services.
WESTERN MARYLAND REGION
The Regional Director for the Western Maryland Region oversees administration of community-based services, Brandenburg Center, and Potomac Center.
P. O. Box 1722
Country Club Road
Cumberland, MD 21502 - 1722
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD FOR BRANDENBURG CENTER
The Governor, upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene, appoints the Board's seven members to four-year terms.
1380 Marshall St.
Hagerstown, MD 21740
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD FOR POTOMAC CENTER
The Governor, upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene, appoints the Board's seven members to four-year terms.
LABORATORIES ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
OFFICE OF DRUG CONTROL
4201 Patterson Ave., 4th floor
Baltimore, MD 21215 - 2299
LABORATORIES OFFICE
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
LABORATORY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Authorized in 1989, the Laboratory Advisory Committee advises the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene on matters relating to medical laboratories (Chapter 330, Acts of 1989).
MENTAL HYGIENE ADMINISTRATION
201 West Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201 - 2399
Walter P. Carter Center (Baltimore City)
Crownsville Hospital Center (Anne Arundel County)
Eastern Shore Hospital Center (Dorchester County)
Thomas B. Finan Hospital Center (Allegany County)
Highland Health Facility Psychiatric Unit (Baltimore City)
Clifton T. Perkins Hospital Center (Howard County)
Spring Grove Hospital Center (Baltimore County)
Springfield Hospital Center (Carroll County)
Upper Shore Community Mental Health Center (Kent County)Focus Point (at Crownsville Hospital Center)
Regional Institute for Children & Adolescents - Baltimore
Regional Institute for Children & Adolescents - Rockville
Regional Institute for Children & Adolescents - Southern MarylandMARYLAND ADVISORY COUNCIL ON MENTAL HYGIENE
The Maryland Advisory Council on Mental Hygiene was created in 1976 (Chapter 746, Acts of 1976). It advises the Mental Hygiene Administration on the social, economic and medical problems of mental hygiene.
WALTER P. CARTER CENTER
630 West Fayette St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD FOR WALTER P. CARTER CENTER
The Board's seven members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene.
5200 Eastern Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21224