Origin Stories: Department of Health and Human Services

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is a cornerstone in safeguarding the health and well-being of Americans. Established in 1953 as the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW), it was restructured in 1979, leading to the creation of a separate Department of Education and the renaming of HEW to HHS.

HHS oversees a broad range of programs aimed at enhancing public health, providing essential human services, and advancing medical research. Key agencies under HHS include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These organizations are instrumental in combating infectious diseases, supporting medical breakthroughs, and ensuring food and drug safety.

One of HHS’s most impactful programs is Medicare and Medicaid, established in 1965. These initiatives provide healthcare coverage to millions of elderly, low-income, and disabled individuals. Additionally, HHS administers programs like Head Start for early childhood education and the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), which focuses on child welfare.

The Trump administration has initiated significant workforce reductions at HHS, sparking concerns among experts. These cuts could severely impact public health initiatives, research, and essential services. Experts worry about losing experienced professionals critical to disease prevention and outbreak response, as well as disruptions to biomedical research and healthcare innovation. The loss of key personnel may weaken the nation’s ability to respond effectively to public health crises.

Despite challenges, HHS remains at the forefront of improving Americans' quality of life by ensuring healthcare access, funding medical research, and safeguarding public health. As health challenges evolve, HHS continues adapting to create a healthier, more equitable future.