Maryland Community Health Resources Commission - Annapolis, MD

Maryland Community Health Resources Commission

Commission Overview

The Maryland Community Health Resources Commission (CHRC) is an independent commission operating within the Maryland Department of Health. Established by the Maryland General Assembly in 2005, its primary mission is to expand access to health care services for low-income and underserved communities across the state. The 11-member commission, appointed by the Governor, oversees grant programs that support safety net providers, including federally qualified health centers, local health departments, and non-profit community organizations. The CHRC works to reduce health disparities and promote health equity through targeted funding and policy initiatives.

Key Programs and Grants

• Safety Net Grants: The Commission awards grants to expand primary care, behavioral health, and dental services in rural and urban underserved areas.
• Health Equity Resource Communities (HERC): A state initiative designed to reduce health disparities, improve health outcomes, and lower health care costs in specific geographic areas.
• Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports: The CHRC provides administrative support to this consortium, which focuses on behavioral health services for students and families.
• Rural Health Initiatives: Dedicated funding streams to address the unique health care challenges faced by rural Marylanders.

Administrative Office

The Commission's administrative offices are located on Calvert Street in the historic district of Annapolis. This location houses the executive director and program staff who manage the grant lifecycle and commission operations. Note: This is an administrative headquarters, not a direct medical service facility. Staff often operate on a hybrid schedule, and the commission strongly encourages inquiries to be submitted via email or phone rather than through unscheduled walk-in visits. Public commission meetings are held periodically, often with options for virtual attendance.