Doctor Mina Seshamani nominated as Maryland Health Secretary by Governor Moore

In a pivotal session of the Maryland General Assembly's Executive Nominations Committee on March 17, 2025, Dr. Mina Seshamani was nominated for the position of Secretary of the Maryland Department of Health. This nomination comes at a critical time as the state navigates complex healthcare challenges and budget constraints.

Dr. Seshamani, a resident of District 16 and a highly qualified candidate, brings a wealth of experience to the role. She is a Johns Hopkins-trained surgeon and holds a PhD in economics from Oxford, where she was a Marshall Scholar. Her previous leadership roles include overseeing the Medicare program at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and serving as Vice President of Clinical Care Transformation at MedStar Health. Her diverse background equips her with a unique perspective on healthcare policy and operations, emphasizing the importance of patient-centered care.

During her introduction, Dr. Seshamani expressed her commitment to improving the health of all Marylanders through a data-driven approach and collaboration with various stakeholders. She acknowledged the uncertainties facing the healthcare system, particularly at the federal level, and emphasized the need for strong partnerships with the Maryland General Assembly and local health organizations.

Key discussions during the meeting included the potential impacts of federal changes to Medicaid and Medicare, particularly concerning the AHEAD model, which is crucial for Maryland's innovative payment structures. Dr. Seshamani highlighted her achievements in engaging stakeholders to enhance Medicare services, such as integrating behavioral health with physical health and expanding community health services. She underscored the importance of maintaining open communication with local health departments to ensure that healthcare improvements reach those who need them most.

The committee members raised concerns about the implications of potential federal funding cuts and the importance of local health officers in extending the department's reach. Dr. Seshamani reiterated her commitment to leveraging local insights to inform state health policies and ensure that Maryland's healthcare system remains responsive to community needs.

As the session concluded, the committee expressed support for Dr. Seshamani's nomination, recognizing her qualifications and vision for the Maryland Department of Health. If confirmed, she will play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare in Maryland, particularly in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and navigating the complexities of federal healthcare policies. The next steps will involve further discussions and a vote on her nomination, as the state looks to strengthen its healthcare system during a time of uncertainty.