HHS Launches Sweeping Reorganization to Make America Healthy Again

Welcome to Today in Health Policy, where we break down the week’s biggest news from the Department of Health and Human Services. I’m your host, and here’s what you need to know.

Headlining this week, HHS has launched its most sweeping reorganization in decades—a move branded as the transformation to “Make America Healthy Again.” Announced by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the department will consolidate 28 divisions into just 15, cut the federal health workforce from 82,000 to 62,000, and trim regional offices from ten down to four. One of the centerpiece changes is the formation of the new Administration for a Healthy America, which will unify efforts in chronic disease prevention, behavioral health, and community health services. This means agencies like SAMHSA and HRSA will merge under a common umbrella, aiming to streamline support for our most vulnerable populations and maximize efficiency.

Another major development—the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is doubling down on epidemic preparedness, absorbing the Office of Strategic Preparedness and Response. This shift comes with a net loss of 1,400 staff but is expected to “cut red tape and turbocharge our emergency readiness,” according to Secretary Kennedy. Meanwhile, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, facing a reduction in administrative staff, will take on more programs for older adults and people with disabilities—but HHS assures the public that core services for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries will remain uninterrupted.

On the policy front, HHS has announced a major change in how it develops new rules. Agencies will now have broader latitude to skip the traditional public notice-and-comment process for regulations involving grants, benefits, and contracts. This, officials claim, will allow for faster action in emergencies or when implementing technical updates. Still, advocacy groups and state governments are watching closely, warning that reduced public input could lead to less transparency.

Speaking of funding, HHS just redirected $500 million from COVID-19 vaccine research to a new “Generation Gold Standard” universal influenza vaccine project. The goal: clinical trials by next year and FDA approval by 2029. Some experts question whether putting all the eggs in one basket is wise, but HHS says this could be a game-changer for pandemic preparedness.

For state and local governments, the closure of regional HHS offices and dispersal of community program administration will require adaptation, especially in the 22 states now reassigned to different support centers. Healthcare organizations are advised to stay in close touch with updated HHS contacts to avoid disruptions in funding and oversight.

Internationally, these changes may streamline the U.S. response to global health threats and improve coordination with partner nations, especially as the CDC realigns its mission around epidemic response.

Looking ahead, the Senate is expected to vote this week on a budget resolution that could dramatically affect Medicaid and Medicare spending. As these changes roll out, HHS plans further announcements and is encouraging stakeholders—providers, state agencies, and citizens—to stay informed and engaged. For more details or to find your new regional office contact, visit HHS.gov. If you have an opinion on the proposed rulemaking changes, now’s the time to reach out.

That’s it for this week. Stay tuned for updates, and remember—the health of America is changing, and your voice matters.