HHS Plans Major Workforce Cuts, Restructures Services

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a significant restructuring that will result in the elimination of 10,000 jobs, alongside an additional 10,000 through early retirements and buyouts, reducing its workforce by 24%. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that the changes aim to realign the agency with its core mission to combat chronic diseases, although critics, including consumer groups and former officials, raised concerns about the impact on critical health services for seniors and vulnerable populations. The restructuring will dismantle the Administration for Community Living, redistributing its functions to other HHS divisions, but advocates fear this may undermine services vital for older adults. Stakeholders have warned that this reduction in workforce could adversely affect public health initiatives, such as responses to infectious disease outbreaks and support for elderly care. The cuts will primarily target administrative positions across several public health agencies, including the FDA and CDC, prompting fears of a 'manmade disaster' in health service delivery. Critics argue that the restructuring could lead to diminished care quality and accessibility for those who rely on HHS programs.