Role and Responsibilities of the HHS Secretary

The Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) oversees one of the largest domestic agencies in the U.S., managing a budget of approximately $1.7 trillion and about 85,000 employees. This position connects with various public health issues, influencing policies from birth to death, including Medicare and Medicaid. Effective leadership is crucial, as the secretary must engage and inspire the agency's workforce to ensure successful implementation of health initiatives. A good secretary balances public health advocacy with managerial responsibilities, addressing the needs and challenges within the agency.