Dorchester health officer: county among six chosen for medically tailored‑meals pilot; state rural health funds available

Dr. Scott, the county health officer, told the Dorchester County Council on May 5 that Maryland and federal programs are directing new funding to rural health initiatives and that Dorchester County is one of six counties chosen for a medically tailored‑meals pilot. The CMS‑linked initiative includes a one‑time state population health improvement fund (described in the presentation as a $25,000,000 adjustment) and two pilot initiatives for 2026: medically tailored meals for high‑risk patients and produce prescriptions.

For Dorchester County residents who are eligible — people diagnosed with diabetes or those recently hospitalized due to diabetes — the medically tailored‑meals pilot provides weekly home delivery of 12 frozen meals for six months, with fresh produce and nutritionist support where needed. Dr. Scott said enrollment will be easiest through a primary care provider or diabetes specialist, and that Movable Feast will deliver the meals; county health department staff will also help connect residents to the program.

Dr. Scott explained changes to how state funds are being allocated to local health departments, noting a new "core program" budget structure and concerns about county match and workforce sustainability. "With the minimum amount of match I can't sustain my full workforce," he said, urging council members to consider staffing needs as new programs arrive. The presentation also reviewed a $160,000,000 award (year‑one RHTP allocation) intended for rural health workforce, mobile health, and food systems investments.

Council members thanked Dr. Scott and asked for follow‑up on food aggregator plans and specific grant notices. Dr. Scott said handouts and contact information (including a Movable Feast contact) would be made available and that the department would share public RFPs and information about future funding opportunities.

What happens next: The health department will post enrollment handouts and pursue community organization partners for RHTP funding applications; council budget staff will consider programmatic match and staffing implications in the FY27 budget process.