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The Hidden History of the Department of Health and Human Services: How it Changed America's Health Care System
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is a cabinet-level executive department of the United States federal government established to protect the health of the American people and provide essential human services. The department's motto is "Improving the health, safety, and welfare of the United States." Prior to the creation of the independent Department of Education in 1979, HHS was known as the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW). Over time, HHS has evolved from a social service agency to a key department in charge of the U.S. healthcare system.
History
The Department of Health and Human Services traces its roots to 1939, when the Federal Security Administration (FSA) was established to integrate federal efforts in the areas of health, education, and social security.
With the creation of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW) in 1953, the functions of the FSA were incorporated into the new department. As the first new cabinet department in the United States, HEW not only changed the operating model of public health in the United States, but also contributed to the establishment of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
In 1979, with the creation of the Department of Education, HEW was renamed the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), with its focus now on social security and public health services. As social needs continue to change, the role of HHS becomes increasingly important.
Internal structure and operation
The internal structure of the Department of Health and Human Services is quite complex and consists of multiple functional departments. Each department is responsible for different aspects of public health and social services.
HHS is currently led by the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, who is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The next level below the minister is the deputy minister, followed by seven assistant ministers, officials who play key roles in running the department.
HHS's specific offices include the Secretary's Office, which has immediate input from the Secretary, and various assistant offices responsible for policy development. This structure ensures that the department can respond quickly and effectively to a variety of public health challenges.
Main functions and plans
HHS administers 115 different programs covering a wide range of social and health-related issues, the purpose of which is to "protect the health of all Americans and provide essential social services, especially to those least able to help themselves." .
Among them, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is designed to protect patients' medical privacy rights, while the social services section includes support programs for low-income people, military families and the elderly.
Health promotion and prevention programs are also at the heart of HHS's work, working to raise public health awareness and promote improvements in vaccinations, nutrition, and mental health.
Challenges and controversies
Although HHS plays a central role in the U.S. healthcare system, its operations face many challenges and criticisms. Especially in dealing with immigration and refugee issues, the actions of its subsidiaries have aroused widespread concern and questioning from the society.
A 2016 Senate report revealed that dozens of unaccompanied children from Central America were released into the hands of human traffickers and sexually abused and exploited while in HHS custody, raising public concerns about the department’s ability to manage and oversee it. Ask questions.
In addition, with budget cuts and media scrutiny, many HHS programs have come under scrutiny, challenging both its ability to respond to infectious diseases and its allocation of funds for social services.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, HHS will continue to be committed to improving the U.S. public health system, but how to effectively respond to growing health needs and deal with social conflicts will be a major task facing the department in the coming years.
As the healthcare system continues to change and the social environment evolves, the role of HHS will become more diverse and require more strategic planning and implementation to meet future challenges. How do you think these changes will affect Americans? What about daily life and health?
