The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has recently announced a plan to cut 20,000 employees, including layoffs, buyouts, and early retirements. This move is part of a larger effort to reorganize the federal health care bureaucracy and save $1.8 billion annually. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that the agency’s 28 divisions will be reduced by almost half, with a focus on reducing chronic illness.
However, details about the layoffs and reorganizations remain unclear, leaving many high-level officials surprised by the announcement. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will be the most affected, with approximately 3,500 employees, or 19% of its workforce, facing cuts. The FDA assures that drug, medical device, and food reviewers, as well as inspectors, will not be impacted by the layoffs.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will also lose 2,400 employees, about 18% of its workforce. The agency plans to refocus on preparing for and responding to disease epidemics and outbreaks. However, some experts question how cutting chronic disease programs at the CDC will help reverse the chronic disease epidemic.
In other health news, gene-editing pioneer Keith Joung recently discussed the need for more regulations and guardrails around gene-editing technologies to ensure the safety of future generations. Meanwhile, research has shown the protective benefits of gender-affirming hormones for trans and nonbinary individuals, including a lower risk of HIV infection.
Unfortunately, the Trump administration has been canceling numerous health care grants, impacting important research projects. Researchers like Michael Bronstein and Jess Steier have shared their experiences of having their grants abruptly terminated, highlighting the challenges faced by scientists in securing federal funding. Additionally, improving disability data collection at the state level is crucial for advancing health equity and addressing disparities in health care for people with disabilities.
The health care landscape is rapidly changing, with significant implications for public health and medical research. Stay informed with STAT’s free newsletter Morning Rounds for the latest updates on health and medicine. Maryland and Oregon have set the bar high when it comes to developing robust systems for public health and healthcare. These states have been leaders in implementing innovative strategies to address various health issues, setting an example for other states to follow.
Maryland, for example, has made significant strides in improving access to healthcare for its residents. The state has implemented a unique all-payer model that aims to control healthcare costs while improving quality and outcomes. This model brings together hospitals, healthcare providers, and insurance companies to collectively negotiate payment rates, ensuring that all patients receive the care they need without facing financial barriers. Maryland’s approach has been praised for its effectiveness in reducing healthcare disparities and improving overall health outcomes.
Similarly, Oregon has been at the forefront of initiatives to address public health challenges such as opioid overdoses. The state has focused on empowering communities to take the lead in preventing opioid-related deaths through education, outreach, and access to treatment services. By engaging local stakeholders and fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, law enforcement, and community organizations, Oregon has been successful in reducing opioid overdoses and saving lives.
These success stories serve as a reminder of the importance of investing in public health infrastructure and prioritizing the well-being of all residents. By learning from states like Maryland and Oregon, other regions can adopt similar approaches to address pressing health issues and create healthier communities for all.
