Everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve optimal health—regardless of social, economic, or racial/ethnic differences. Yet, longstanding health disparities persist in Maryland and nationwide.

MHA and Maryland hospitals and health systems committed to address these inequities. We are encouraged by promising efforts here—such as measures to help caregivers recognize and overcome implicit bias—and across the country.

We’re open to good ideas no matter where they originate. One that has impressed our Health Equity Task Force and Diversity-Equity-Inclusion Advisory Group was devised by a group of health care organizations in Illinois. This long-term accountability tool for health care institutions, the Racial Equity in Healthcare Progress Report, helps to document progress toward achieving racial health equity.

Hospitals and health systems are invited to join a national pilot program by completing the progress report. Those that do will receive a report with organization-specific analysis and an implementation playbook to help you translate your data into action. Up to six Maryland organizations will have the opportunity to participate in an eight-week collaborative with peers around the country.

The Progress Report is designed to encourage collective improvement, not competition. It lets you create a baseline self-assessment for your hospital in key areas, driving both institutional change, and collective action across our state.

We know, and we’re proud, that most MHA members have already made strides on the equity journey. We believe this tool is unique and will complement and support your efforts.

Bob Atlas
President & CEO