We and much of the nation are alarmed to see an uptick of COVID in most states, including Maryland. Your hospitals appear to be managing the volume without the strain felt during our spike in April/May, yet we know a significant surge would threaten that progress and stress your resources further.

With just three months to the start of the 2021 legislative session in Annapolis, we’ll need to adapt to yet another new challenge brought on by the coronavirus: communicating with lawmakers remotely.

The coronavirus pandemic and the economic downturn it has caused disproportionately affects the neediest Marylanders and communities of color. Even as some restrictions on business and social activity are lifting, the economy is slow to bounce back. Just last week the number of first-time unemployment claims in Maryland nearly doubled.

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.