About Health and Human Services

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is a pivotal federal agency dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of Americans. Established in 1953, HHS has evolved significantly over the years, playing a crucial role in public health, medical research, and human services. **Mission and Responsibilities:** HHS administers a wide range of programs, including health insurance coverage for over 170 million Americans through Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act. It also supports community health centers, provides medical care to American Indians and Alaska Natives, and addresses specific health needs such as HIV/AIDS and mental health[5]. The department is involved in life-saving research and works closely with other federal departments, state governments, and the private sector to achieve its goals[4]. **History and Achievements:** Historically, HHS has been instrumental in addressing major public health challenges, such as disease outbreaks and substance abuse. It has also been at the forefront of medical research, particularly through the National Institutes of Health (NIH). **Current Status:** In 2025, HHS embarked on a significant reorganization aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing redundancies. This involves merging several agencies into new entities, such as the Administration for a Healthy America, and consolidating divisions from 28 to 15[2][3]. The restructuring also includes workforce reductions, with a reported decrease of 10,000 employees[6]. **Notable Aspects:** HHS's FY2025 budget request is $1.802 trillion, with a focus on critical programs like Medicare and Medicaid[10]. The department is also working to protect taxpayer dollars through oversight and enforcement efforts[7]. Its reorganization is expected to save taxpayers $1.8 billion annually[8]. Overall, HHS remains a vital component of the U.S. healthcare system, driving innovation and access to healthcare services.

Latest right now for Health and Human Services

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Politics

Trump Administration's Call for Justification of Covid Medications by Drugmakers Could Change Future of Vaccine Development

02 Sep 2025 37 views

#trump_administration #covid_medications #vaccine_development

The Trump administration's demand for justification of Covid medications could lead to a more thorough and transparent process for vaccine approval, impacting the future of vaccine development.

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Health

AMA Urges HHS Secretary to Retain USPSTF Members

29 Jul 2025 10 views

#ama #uspstf #healthcare #primary_care #racial_justice

The American Medical Association expresses concerns over the possible dismissal of members of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force by the Health and Human Services Secretary. The removal of experts could have serious consequences for the medical community and the public.

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Health

Kennedy's Involvement in Vaccine Committee Leads to Recommendation for RSV Shot

26 Jun 2025 34 views

#kennedy #vaccine committee #rsv shot

Read about the committee's decision, led by Kennedy, to recommend the RSV shot for young children and its impact on public health.

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Health

Critics Raise Concerns over Controversial Members Appointed to Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices

18 Jun 2025 14 views

#vaccines #public health #controversy

The decision to appoint anti-vaccine individuals to the ACIP has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the potential impact on public health.