Discover the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Its Vital Role
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is a Cabinet-level government department dedicated to health, well-being, and social services research. Operating through 11 key agencies, the HHS manages over 100 programs designed to improve the lives of Americans. These agencies include fundamental organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Key Points
- Health and Wellbeing Focus: HHS centers its mission on the health and well-being of U.S. citizens.
- Promoting Research: It spearheads research endeavors in social services, medicine, and public health sectors.
- Broad Structure & Programs: Through its 11 divisions, HHS operates an array of health and social programs.
- Diverse Initiatives: On top of healthcare provisions, HHS advances social service, civil rights, and privacy initiatives.
- Prominent Divisions: The CDC and FDA are notable parts of HHS attracted to tackling major health challenges and ensuring public safety.
Understanding the Impact of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
HHS was inaugurated in 1953 as the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW) and later became the Department of Health and Human Services in 1980 after the creation of a separate Department of Education. Today, HHS remains pivotal in granting opportunities, administering the Affordable Care Act, enforcing the HIPAA Privacy Rule, monitoring human research ethics, and running children’s programs like Head Start. Notably, HHS stands as the leading grant-awarding body throughout the nation.
HHS Structures and Divisions
HHS’s ultimate mission is to “protect the health of all Americans and provide essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves.” To achieve this, HHS directs 11 key divisions engaging in varied health and human services initiatives.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The CDC is the primary health protection agency conducting comprehensive research and analysis to shield the populace from healthcare threats. With an emphasis on science, the CDC aims at thwarting diseases, mitigating the country’s leading health problems, and fostering healthy behavior and safe environments.
Administration for Community Living (ACL)
The ACL supports older adults, disabled persons, families, and caregivers. It runs pivotal programs enhancing well-being, safeguarding rights, preventing abuse, and reinforcing community networks while propelling research efforts.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
The FDA ensures public health protection by affirming the safety, efficacy, and security of medications, biological products, and medical devices. It also assures the safety of the food supply, cosmetics, emitting radiation products, and combating minors’ tobacco usage by remarkably regulating all tobacco products.
Novel Approvals
A total of 53 groundbreaking drugs received FDA approval in 2020 - marking it the second-largest annual count in two decades.
Additional Divisions
Other significant divisions include the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), among others. These divisions execute varied health care, civil rights, disaster preparedness, and health privacy programs supporting marginalized communities, disabled persons, military families, and senior citizens. Regulations under HIPAA ensure the protection and privacy of patient data.
What Does HHS Stand For?
HHS stands for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It forms a key branch of the federal government dedicated to uplifting the health and wellness of all Americans through diverse health and human service programs.
Responsibilities of the HHS
The HHS enhances U.S. citizens’ health through over 100 programs focused on health, medical care, social services, science, and prevention activities maximizing individuals’ well-being.
Current HHS Leadership
Currently, the HHS Secretary is Xavier Becerra. He is the 25th leader of the department and notably the first Latino to hold this esteemed position.
Related Terms: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Food and Drug Administration, Affordable Care Act, HIPAA, Health Resources and Services Administration, Medicare, Medicaid, National Institutes of Health
References
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “HHS Agencies & Offices”.
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Programs & Services”.
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “HHS Historical Highlights”.
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “HHS Grants”.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Mission, Role, and Pledge”.
- Administration for Community Living. “Program Areas”.
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration. “What We Do”.
- Springer Nature. “News & Analysis. 2020 FDA Drug Approvals,” Page 85.
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “HIPAA & Your Health Rights”.
- HHS.gov. “Xavier Becerra”.
