Who We Are
Overview
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 needed to live healthy lives.
The Health Department has a wide-ranging scope of responsibilities, 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. The agency employs approximately 800 employees and has a budget of approximately $208 million.
Our Mission
To protect health, eliminate disparities, and enhance the well-being of everyone in our community through education, coordination, advocacy, and direct service delivery.
Our Vision
An equitable, just, and well Baltimore where everyone has the opportunity to be healthy and to thrive.
Organizational Chart
The Baltimore City Health Department is organized into four divisions: Finance & Administration, Youth Wellness & Community Health, Population Health & Disease Prevention, and Aging.
Download BCHD Organizational Chart
Administration
Within the Baltimore City Health Department (BCHD), the Administration division consists of Equity in BCHD, Human Resources, and the Local Health Improvement Coalition (LHIC), which integrates several key components to effectively promote public health.
Advisory Committees
Our advisory committees provide guidance and expertise on key health issues affecting Baltimore City residents.
Human Resources
The Baltimore City Health Department (BCHD) Human Resources division plays a vital role in building a diverse and skilled workforce dedicated to improving public health within the City of Baltimore. The human resource division focuses on recruiting, training, and supporting employees to ensure they have the resources and opportunities needed to excel in their careers.
Fostering a positive work environment, promoting professional development, and creating wellness within BCHD help establish a culture that empowers employees to make positive impacts and contributions to the department, the community, and those we serve. Human Resources offers an extensive list of career opportunities within the Baltimore City Health Department (BCHD) and within the City of Baltimore.