Massive HHS Overhaul Eliminates 10,000 Federal Health Jobs in Historic Restructuring
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a major workforce reduction, eliminating 10,000 full-time positions as part of a comprehensive restructuring plan. This reduction will decrease the agency's workforce from 82,000 to 62,000 employees.
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. states the reorganization aims to eliminate "bureaucratic sprawl" and refocus the agency on combating America's chronic disease epidemic. The department will prioritize primary care, environmental health, clean water, wholesome food, mental health, maternal health, and reducing environmental toxin exposure.
Key Changes:
- Reduction from 28 to 15 divisions
- Regional offices reduced from 10 to 5
- Creation of new Administration for a Healthy America
- Moving Strategic Preparedness under CDC
- New Assistant Secretary for Enforcement position
- Merger of Strategy Office and Healthcare Research Quality Agency
Major Staff Reductions:
- FDA: 3,500 employees
- CDC: 2,400 employees
- NIH: 1,200 employees
- CMS: 300 employees
- Additional 5,200 probationary workers terminated in February
The layoffs are scheduled to take effect May 27, 2025, with notices potentially being issued as early as this Friday. The cuts target administrative roles, high-cost regional positions, and redundant jobs.
Healthcare experts express concern about the reorganization's impact. The National Treasury Employees Union calls the layoffs "disastrous," while industry leaders warn of potential negative effects on public health infrastructure and service delivery.
While Kennedy acknowledges this will be a "painful period," he maintains it will result in a more efficient department. However, critics argue these cuts could compromise America's healthcare systems and lead to increased costs in the future.
The reorganization maintains core services like Medicare and Medicaid, though experts remain skeptical about service delivery quality under reduced staffing levels. Remaining employees are preparing for increased workloads amid historically low morale.