Caregivers in Maryland hospitals and health systems work year-round to heal patients and to keep their communities healthy. They also have an opportunity to help shape the direction of health care in our state and nation by casting their votes in the November 3 general election.

Maryland hospitals collectively are among the largest employers in our state, with more than 108,000 employees. Such a large constituency should make its voice count in this election and in future ones—from the local level to the presidency.

The services your hospitals deliver—and our own organizations—are inherently nonpartisan. Our mission remains the same no matter who holds public office: to care for Maryland.

Yet, that does not mean that our associates should shy away from participating in the electoral process.

Health care always ranks among all voters’ top concerns when casting their ballots. This year, especially, the lingering coronavirus pandemic makes it likely people will have health issues on their minds as they vote. Our workforce is uniquely well qualified to make educated decisions about the future of health policy.

To help ensure hospitals and your employees join in the electoral process, the American Hospital Association launched We Care … We Vote with toolkits, voter registration information, and sample CEO messages.

Let’s all take this opportunity to support health care priorities up and down the ballot. Vote on, or before, November 3—whether by mail or in person—and encourage others to do the same.

Bob Atlas
President & CEO