Local Health Departments (LHDs) in Maryland play a central but often under-recognized role in shaping and coordinating the behavioral health (BH) system from prevention and harm reduction to crisis response and recovery supports. 

This session, part of the MACHO–MDAFP collaboration series, will highlight how LHDs function as “chief health strategists” within their jurisdictions for behavioral health services, even when the Local Behavioral Health Authority (LBHA) functions are structured outside the health department. 

Using examples, presenters will describe how LHDs convene partners, oversee and deliver services, and operationalize frameworks such as the Sequential Intercept Model and the crisis care continuum. The session will also identify concrete opportunities for family physicians to better leverage local public health infrastructure to improve patient outcomes.

Speakers: 

Meena Brewster – Health Officer, St. Mary’s County

Gena Spear – Health Officer, Allegany County

Carla Thorpe, Health Officer, Kent County

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Describe the role of Local Health Departments as chief health strategists in the behavioral health system(s)
• Explain the structure and oversight functions of Local Behavioral Health Authorities (LBHAs) in Maryland
• Identify key components of the behavioral health continuum, including crisis care and the Sequential Intercept Model
• Recognize the range of direct behavioral health and social support services provided by LHDs
• Apply practical strategies to connect primary care patients with local behavioral health and social supports

CME statement: TBD