Bill > SB129

This bill establishes a Maryland Commission on Health Equity and creates a Health Equity Measures Advisory Committee to address health disparities across the state. The bill defines key terms such as "health disparity" as differences in health outcomes closely linked to social, economic, or environmental disadvantages that affect groups who have experienced systematic obstacles to healthcare based on factors like race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, age, and disability. Starting in 2025, licensed hospitals in Maryland will be required to submit annual Health Equity Reports to the Department of Health and the new Advisory Committee, analyzing disparities in health status and care access across various demographic categories. These reports must include a comprehensive health equity strategy with measurable objectives that address the ten widest health care disparities for vulnerable populations, focusing on areas like person-centered care, patient safety, social determinants of health, treatment effectiveness, care coordination, and access to care. The Advisory Committee will be composed of representatives from the Department of Health, academic experts, hospital associations, labor organizations, consumer groups, and organizations representing vulnerable populations, with the goal of identifying and reducing healthcare inequities across the state.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0129?ys=2025RS