In my very brief time at the Health Department, I have had the pleasure to meet and hear from Baltimore residents, elected officials, healthcare providers and other public health stakeholders all across the City regarding what Baltimore needs to move towards a more equitable health landscape. The energy and enthusiasm that our partners bring to the work of providing for a just and well Baltimore is encouraging. I look forward to strengthening our relationships to help achieve our shared goals.

This week, I had the opportunity to appear before the Baltimore City Council’s Executive Appointments Committee to answer their questions about my vision for the City’s public health initiatives moving forward.  What I shared with the Committee was my understanding of the City’s challenges and successes, especially as it relates to comprehensively addressing the social determinants of health. Knowing that such significant disparities are rampant throughout the City and that our resources in tackling those disparities are limited, I will ensure that we are accountable and efficient in how our resources are allocated all while maintaining our focus on the Health Department’s mission – “To protect health, eliminate disparities, and ensure the wellbeing of every Baltimorean through education, advocacy, and direct service delivery.” As the Baltimore community and supporters of the Health Department, I charge you to always hold me and the Health Department accountable to this mission.   

I have appreciated all the feedback I’ve received from City residents and community partners alike around addressing some of the City’s toughest health and overall wellness challenges. Looking ahead, I will continue to rely on the wise counsel and expertise of the community, stakeholders, and local partners on how we can together reduce the disparities that affect far too many of our residents. I look forward to the next step of the nominating process and to working with my colleagues to make Baltimore a healthier place for all of us.

Letitia Dzirasa, MD.

Acting Commissioner of Health