About The Baltimore City Health Department
Baltimore City Health Department Vision: An equitable, just, and well Baltimore where everyone has the opportunity to be healthy and to thrive.
Baltimore City Health Department Mission: To protect health, eliminate disparities, and enhance the wellbeing of everyone in our community through education, coordination, advocacy, and direct service delivery.
The Baltimore City Health Department is the oldest, continuously-operating health department in the United States, formed in 1793 when the governor appointed the city's first health officers in response to a yellow fever outbreak in the Fells Point neighborhood. During the more than 220 years since then, we’ve been working to improve the health and well-being of Baltimore residents. We strive to make Baltimore a city where all residents realize their full health potential.
In collaboration with other city agencies, health care providers, community organizations, and funders, we aim to empower all Baltimoreans with the knowledge, access, and environment that will enable healthy living.
The Health Department has a wide-ranging area of responsibility, including acute communicable diseases, animal control, chronic disease prevention, emergency preparedness, HIV/STD, maternal-child health, restaurant inspections, school health, senior services, and youth violence issues. The agency includes a workforce of approximately 800 employees and has a budget of approximately $126 million.
Baltimore City Health Department (BCHD) Snapshot
This one-pager provides a comprehensive snapshot of the Baltimore City Health Department (BCHD), highlighting our mission, core service areas, and current priorities. From infectious disease control and chronic disease prevention to environmental health, behavioral health, and emergency preparedness, our department works to protect and promote the well-being of all residents. With a focus on health equity, data-driven strategies, and community partnerships, we deliver high-impact programs and services that respond to both immediate needs and long-term public health goals. The BCHD Snapshot serves as a quick reference to understand the full scope of our work and the resources available through the department.
