What your teams have done over the past 14 months is awesome. Despite all the obstacles your strength and bravery fighting COVID-19 have been truly remarkable. National Hospital Week is May 9-15. MHA is pleased to partner with local talent to give your hospital workers a special thank you. We want to recognize and honor your unprecedented support for the community during the pandemic.

Maryland continues to be a national leader in health care. Your success lowering the drivers of health care spending and promoting health equity are noticed—in Annapolis and in Washington, D.C.

Last week jurors in Minneapolis rendered a verdict of guilty in the murder of George Floyd. The judgment marked an important step in acknowledging systemic racism and accountability in the judicial system. Yet, we recognize the work to address systemic racism must continue. We in health care institutions are among those obliged to do that work.

As it has been for some time, health care was front and center during the Maryland General Assembly’s legislative session, which adjourned April 12. Under that spotlight, MHA and your hospitals told the story of your COVID-19 response, successfully promoted bills to strengthen health and health care, and supported measures to put Maryland on the path to health equity.