What responsibilities does the U.S. federal government have in protecting public health?

In the United States, public health is managed through a pluralistic system involving local, state, and federal governments, alongside the private sector. While protecting public health is traditionally a state responsibility, the federal government plays a critical role in improving health services, controlling interstate health hazards, and coordinating international health matters.1

The primary federal agency responsible for these programs and policies is the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Specific federal responsibilities include:23

• Disease Control and Prevention: Agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention focus on disease surveillance, preventing the spread of communicable diseases, and promoting environmental health.41
• Regulation and Safety: The Food and Drug Administration protects consumers against impure or misbranded foods, drugs, and cosmetics, while the government regulates the production of biological products like vaccines.1
• Research and Support: The federal government promotes medical research, such as through the National Institutes of Health, and provides technical and financial assistance to state and local health programs.1
• Targeted Care: The government provides medical services for specific populations, including military personnel, veterans, merchant seamen, and American Indians.1
• Health Insurance: HHS administers major programs like Medicare and Medicaid.23