May is Mental Health Month. Though we in health care don’t need a designated month to know that our nation — and our state — is in a behavioral health crisis.​

Maryland’s hospitals have steadily raised their patient experience scores. And, while our hospitals are improving faster than the nation, it has not been enough to close the gap. Delivering a consistently positive experience to all patients remains a challenge.​

Today marks the start of National Hospital Week. We at MHA want to share our appreciation for all of you – the more than 100,000 people who advance the health and well-being of 6 million Marylanders.​

We, the staff of MHA, rely on member input to fulfill our mission advocating for, and helping improve the performance of, Maryland’s hospitals and health systems. Throughout the year, we seek and receive your valuable input. Our multiple councils, task forces and work groups churn through serious issues – quality and safety of care, payment policy, behavioral health, medical liability, and much more.​