Maryland launches court-ordered mental health care in Baltimore, some counties

Maryland health officials are rolling out a new and controversial program to help those with severe mental health challenges stay on top of their treatment -- by using a court order to mandate that those patients comply with their medical plans.

By: Danielle J. Brown

Outlets: Maryland Matters

Published: August 21, 2026

Words: 802

Last Updated: 1 month, 3 weeks ago

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Maryland health officials are rolling out a new and controversial program to help those with severe mental health challenges stay on top of their treatment — by using a court order to mandate that those patients comply with their medical plans.

The Maryland Department of Health on Thursday announced the launch of the new Assisted Outpatient Treatment program that will grant mental health professionals, concerned family members or friends the ability to petition a …

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