Advancing Hospital Priorities in Annapolis
We’ve passed the one-third mark of the 2024 Maryland legislative session, and progress is steady. With all the hospital fieldwide priority bills introduced, MHA and your government affairs leads are actively partnering with legislators to advance key issues. Encouragingly, policymakers are showing greater engagement and understanding of our critical mission this year, recognizing that Maryland’s health and economic strength depend on the care your hospitals provide.
MHA continues working closely with legislative leaders to ensure hospitals’ voices are heard. And, as leadership changes at the Maryland Department of Health are anticipated later this month, we are also proactively engaging in that transition.
Last week, the Senate Finance Committee held its first hearing on SB 372, the Preserve Telehealth Access Act—a key priority for hospitals. MHA and hospital leaders testified in strong support, and with no opposition, the bill is well-positioned to advance. The House companion bill will be heard on Feb. 13.
All of the fieldwide priority bills have also now been introduced:
- SB 776 / HB 995 – Workgroup to Study the Rise in Adverse Decisions (Payer Denials)
- SB 696 / HB 962 – Pediatric Hospital Overstay Patients
- SB 681 / HB 926 – Health Care Malpractice – Health Care Provider Definition
MHA is working with the Board of Trustees, the Council on Legislative & Regulatory Policy, and the Legislative Strategy Group to coordinate panels and testimony for upcoming hearings. We will keep you updated as we continue advocating for hospitals and the communities we serve.
Thank you for your engagement and support during this active session.
My best,
Melony G. Griffith
President & CEO