This week, I joined Mayor Catherine E. Pugh and leaders from across the nation at CityLab Baltimore. As Mayor Pugh said, Baltimore is a city rich with resources and anchor institutions that can fuel innovation, especially in neighborhoods that have been neglected.

At CityLab, it was my honor to speak alongside former White House Director of National Drug Control Policy Michael Botticelli on a panel to discuss the opioid epidemic in Baltimore and across the nation. Other speakers included former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and writer D. Watkins.

At BCHD, we are constantly exploring innovative solutions for public health challenges faced across the city. From the opioid epidemic to infant health, we have programs that connect us with residents each day. Earlier this year, BCHD launched the TECHealth program, which recruits teams of designers and engineers to develop solutions to public health problems we identify. Last week, we launched the Billion Step Challenge, a collaboration with businesses and neighborhood groups so that residents and employees are encouraged to pursue fitness and good health. 

Our Health Department has never shied away from doing what is right. This week, The White House Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis issued a draft report with recommendations, and we responded with 5 issues that they should address, including an urgent call for additional funding. Rhetoric is not enough, we need resources.

We are proud to be serving the residents of this great city, in the spirit of innovation and always fighting for those who are the most vulnerable.

Sincerely,

Leana S. Wen, M.D., M.Sc.

Subscribe to the Bmore Healthy newsletter.