Health and Human Services (HHS) is a federal government department and cabinet-level executive branch that provides essential human services and protects the health of all Americans. Its motto is “Improving the health, safety, and well-being of the people of America.” The department works to achieve this goal by implementing a variety of policies and programs.
Job opportunities
Career opportunities in health and human services are available in a wide variety of fields. Some careers focus on the prevention of disease while others focus on helping those who need it most. Health care workers work with patients and their families to find solutions to various health problems. In addition to direct services, there are also positions in public health law, which involves working with government officials at the local, state, and national levels.
Careers in health and human services are highly rewarding and challenging. Many of these professionals help those in need and thrive under high-pressure situations. Health care workers, social workers, and community health workers earn more than $50,470 on average each year. In addition to their high salaries, these positions also offer a large growth potential. For example, a health educator can earn up to $46,910 and see an 11% increase in job growth. Other positions that pay significantly more include group home administrators, which earn $100,980 and experience a whopping 18% growth.
Careers
There are many different types of careers in health and human services, each with its own unique set of skills and responsibilities. Health and human services professionals work with individuals and communities to address a variety of issues. Some work to prevent problems and help families find affordable housing, while others work with people with mental and substance abuse issues.
Careers in health and human services can be financially and emotionally rewarding. These workers help people when they need it most. Most health and human services professionals work in government or nonprofit organizations. They must be compassionate, trustworthy, and able to work well under pressure. Many positions in this field require certification or licensure to work. The requirements vary by state.
Salaries
Salaries in the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) are below average in comparison to those of similar sized companies. The department’s compensation ranks in the Bottom 25%, while its Perks And Benefits are at the bottom 40% of those in the private sector. The benefits provided to HHS employees vary, depending on their position and employment status. You can check Comparably for a full list of benefits.
In New York City, health and human services salaries are very competitive. The highest paying job in the department is the Director of Sales, while the lowest-paying position is Receptionist.
Programs
The bachelor’s degree in health and human services is an excellent choice for those who want to help people in the field. These programs focus on human development, psychology, and social policy. They may also include courses in community collaboration, conflict resolution, and trauma response. Generally, programs in health and human services require a certain number of credits before a student can declare a major. However, some universities offer courses that students can take before declaring a major, which will make the degree more flexible.
The Department of Health and Human Services is an organization that protects and promotes the health of all Americans. Its mission is to improve the quality of health care in America by promoting preventative measures and reducing health disparities. It also oversees many government programs, including food-safety initiatives and financial assistance programs for low-income residents.
Budget
HHS’s FY2021 budget proposal includes nearly $2 trillion in mandatory and discretionary spending. This amount is almost three times the amount spent in the current year. Most of the HHS budget is spent on mandatory health care programs, including Medicare and Medicaid. Approximately 86% of HHS spending is allocated for these programs.
The budget also includes funding for the Affordable Care Act’s public health insurance marketplace. It focuses on driving health equity initiatives and expanding access to affordable, high-quality care. It supports reforms to bring down the cost of prescription drugs, including requiring drug manufacturers to pay rebates and negotiating prices for high-cost drugs. These changes are estimated to save the federal government $0.5 trillion over ten years.