Maryland Health Connection Internship

Presenter: Vy Hoang, Public Health Science, Global Public Health Scholars

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r my practicum, I interned at the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange (MBHE) in Baltimore, MD. MBHE is an organization that connects Maryland residents with affordable health insurance options. As an HR Service Delivery Intern, I collaborated closely with the Human Resources team to streamline internal workflows, enhance information organization, and support more effective decision-making. One of my primary responsibilities was creating a comprehensive folder structure documentation that defined naming conventions and governance rules for organizing health-related data in their safe drive, which had previously lacked systematic organization. Once organized, I created a presentation for HR staff and other staff who has access to the files to guide them in implementing this new system, ultimately contributing to improved team coordination and more effective operations. Through this role, I gained a deeper understanding of workforce management and compliance with regulatory standards, while also learning how effective HR systems strengthen health programs and public health outcomes. My experience at MHBE solidified my interest in pursuing a career within the public health sector, particularly in workforce and health program management. The practicum offered insights into how internal systems like HR play a pivotal role in supporting public health infrastructure and service delivery on both local and global scales. This opportunity not only enhanced my qualifications but also gave me a practical understanding of how interdisciplinary and administrative functions are essential in advancing health equity and access.