Legal Definitions - Department of Health and Human Services

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is a part of the United States government that is responsible for taking care of people's health, welfare, and income security. It was created in 1953 under the name Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, and later changed to its current name in 1980.

The HHS is led by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, who is a member of the President's cabinet. The department has many different agencies and offices that work together to improve the health and well-being of Americans.

Some examples of agencies within the HHS include:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which works to prevent and control the spread of diseases
• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates food, drugs, and medical devices to ensure they are safe and effective
• The National Institutes of Health (NIH), which conducts research to improve health and find cures for diseases
• The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), which provides assistance to families and children in need

These agencies and offices work together to carry out the mission of the HHS, which is to enhance and protect the health and well-being of all Americans.