The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has a rich history, with its roots tracing back to the 1950s. As a vital part of the federal government, HHS has been led by numerous Secretaries who have shaped the department's policies and initiatives. In this article, we will explore the list of past HHS Secretaries in the United States, highlighting their contributions and impact on the nation's healthcare and human services.
Early Years of HHS: The First Secretaries
The Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW) was established in 1953, with its first Secretary being Oveta Culp Hobby. Hobby played a crucial role in shaping the department's early years, focusing on healthcare and education. She served from 1953 to 1955.
Following Hobby, Marion McPherson took over as Secretary of HEW from 1955 to 1957. McPherson continued to build on Hobby's work, emphasizing the importance of healthcare and education for all Americans.
The Evolution of HHS: Changes in Leadership
In 1965, the department underwent a significant transformation with the establishment of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. John W. Gardner became the first Secretary of the newly reorganized department, serving from 1965 to 1968. Gardner's tenure focused on improving healthcare access and education for disadvantaged groups.
| Secretary | Term |
|---|---|
| Oveta Culp Hobby | 1953-1955 |
| Marion McPherson | 1955-1957 |
| John W. Gardner | 1965-1968 |
| Robert M. McNamara | Not Applicable* |
| Joseph P. Freeland | Not Applicable* |
*Robert M. McNamara and Joseph P. Freeland did not serve as HHS Secretaries; Robert McNamara served as Secretary of Defense.
Modern Era of HHS: Recent Secretaries
The department continued to evolve, and in 1980, it was renamed the Department of Health and Human Services. Since then, numerous Secretaries have led HHS, shaping its policies and initiatives.
Joseph A. Califano Jr. served as Secretary from 1977 to 1980, focusing on healthcare reform and social services. John C. White followed Califano, serving from 1980 to 1981, and emphasizing budget control and program efficiency.
Recent Leadership: 21st Century
In the 21st century, HHS has been led by several notable Secretaries. Donna Shalala served from 1993 to 2000, focusing on healthcare reform and disease prevention. Tom Daschle was appointed in 2001 but resigned before confirmation. Michael Leavitt served from 2001 to 2009, emphasizing health information technology and pandemic preparedness.
Robert Gates did not serve as HHS Secretary; however, Janet Napolitano was considered but not confirmed. Katherine Sebelius served from 2009 to 2014, focusing on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) implementation. John O. Brooks and Eric Hargan served briefly as Acting Secretaries.
Alex Azar served as Secretary from 2017 to 2021, focusing on ACA repeal efforts and opioid crisis response. Xavier Becerra is the current Secretary of HHS, serving since 2021, with a focus on health equity, COVID-19 response, and healthcare access.
Key Points
- The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has a rich history dating back to the 1950s.
- Oveta Culp Hobby was the first Secretary of HHS (then known as HEW), serving from 1953 to 1955.
- The department has undergone significant transformations, including its renaming to HHS in 1980.
- Recent Secretaries have focused on healthcare reform, disease prevention, and pandemic preparedness.
- The current Secretary of HHS is Xavier Becerra, serving since 2021.
Who was the first Secretary of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare?
+Oveta Culp Hobby was the first Secretary of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW), serving from 1953 to 1955.
What is the current name of the department?
+The department is currently known as the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Who is the current Secretary of HHS?
+The current Secretary of HHS is Xavier Becerra, serving since 2021.
This list demonstrates a clear progression of leadership within HHS, showcasing the evolution of the department and its priorities over the years. Understanding the contributions of past Secretaries provides valuable insights into the complex world of healthcare and human services in the United States.
