SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " HHS " 100 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
Sign in to save shuffle history.
County health departments could see cuts as Iowa HHS shifts to regionalized model
Iowa HHS plans to transition the state’s public health system into a regional model by 2028. The move will shift the oversight of funds for each county to a lead entity in each region. Public health officials are warning the new system will leave gaps in services for residents.
HHS Finalizes HTI-5 Deregulatory Rule to Encourage Innovation and Reduce Health IT Certification Program Compliance Costs
HHS released the Health Data, Technology, and Interoperability: ONC Deregulatory Actions to Unleash Prosperity (HTI-5) Final Rule.
RFK Jr. moves to reveal health care costs
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced a new initiative requiring the health care industry to publish clear pricing data for consumers.
Human Health Sciences Degree Prepared Alumna for Physical Therapy School
Fatima Pena-Torres, a 2025 UNC Greensboro graduate, did not always picture herself becoming a physical therapist.
HHSC Highlights Healthy Aging Resources, Seeks Input on Aging Plan | Texas Health and Human Services
HHSC is observing Healthy Aging Month in September by highlighting resources that support older Texans and encouraging people to help shape the future of aging in the state.
HHS Recommends Science-Based Thresholds to Target Dangerous Enhanced Kratom Products
HHS provided a new recommendation to the Drug Enforcement Administration that establishes science-based thresholds.
PUBLIC COMMENT — Medicaid Program; Amending the Indirect Hold Harmless Threshold of Health Care-Related Taxes
This proposed rule represents one of the most economically significant and socially beneficial deregulatory actions in HHS’s history.
Health Research Agency Head on Administrative Leave, HHS Says
The director of the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, Alicia Jackson, is on administrative leave, according to a Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson.
HHS Declares Public Health Emergencies for Florida, Alabama following Hurricane Isaias
Secretary Kennedy yesterday determined that public health emergencies exist in Florida and Alabama as a result of Hurricane Isaias.
RFK Jr. tasks researchers with studying vaccine injuries
The US Department of Health and Human Services launched a program this week to study and capture the breadth of vaccine injuries, reviving a longtime priority for HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and stoking concerns from some public health advocates.
Health and Human Services seeks community input to inform programs and services
In April, Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) launched the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) survey to help identify the health priorities, community needs, strengths and risk fac
How Is The Federal Government Counting Measles Deaths?
Recently Secretary of HHS Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., changed how the federal government tracks deaths in its official measles tally, after Pennsylvania reported four deaths. This Policy Watch reviews the two roles, strengths, and weaknesses of the two public health surveillance systems at the center of this change: the Nationally Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS) and the National Vital Statistics System (NVSS).
HHS Awards Almost $250 Million to Expand Addiction Treatment, Overdose Prevention and Mental Health Services
SAMHSA, an agency within HHS, awarded $247.9M in grants to support addiction treatment, mental health services, and recovery programs.
HHS relaxes security, transparency rules for health record software used by hospitals
The Trump administration removed several security, privacy and transparency requirements for vendors of EHR software.
RFK Jr. announces latest plans to update infant formula standards
HHS said 30 required nutrients will be examined as part of the first review of infant formula’s ingredients and nutrition in nearly three decades.
HHS declares public health emergency in Alabama, Florida following Hurricane Isaias
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. yesterday determined that public health emergencies exist in Florida and Alab
Executive order calls for creation of NIH Women’s Health Division
An executive order issued by the White House today directs the Department of Health and Human Services, through the National Institutes of Health, to establish a Women’s Health Division. The new division will focus on conditions that uniquely or disproportionately affect women.
HHS Launches Agency-Wide Actions to Strengthen Vaccine Injury Research, Reporting, and Patient Care
HHS launched a series of actions to strengthen how the federal government identifies, documents, investigates, and responds to health problems.
HHS Invests $51 Million to Expand Dental Care for Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services , announced $51 million in awards to 28 HRSA-funded health centers to improve access to dental care for children with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Trump uses ‘contested’ power to cut more funding to HHS
Late Friday night, the Trump administration clawed back nearly $1 billion in spending approved by Congress, targeting several HHS programs focused on immigrants and diversity
HHS Seeks Public Input on Electromagnetic Fields and Wireless Radiation
HHS issued a Request for Information (RFI) calling on Americans, scientists, physicians, industry, and public health experts to submit evidence and information on the potential health effects of electromagnetic fields.
HHS cancels health insurance of 760,000 individuals enrolled in healthcare.gov plans
The Department of Health and Human Services announced something it's never done before - canceled the health insurance of 760,000 individuals enrolled in plans in the Affordable Care Act marketplace.
Governor Gianforte Announces Transition at the Department of Public Health and Human Services
HELENA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today announced that Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Director Charlie Brereton will transition out of his role on October 30 to pursue an opportunity in the private sector. The governor has named Dr. Doug Harrington, the department’s State Medical Officer, as Director of DPHHS.
HHS finalizes health IT rule cutting certification criteria
The HTI-5 final rule reduces requirements for developers participating in the ONC Health IT Certification Program.
HSCC backs healthcare cybersecurity bills, calls for broader funding and stronger HHS-CISA coordination
HSCC backs healthcare cybersecurity bills, calls for broader funding and stronger HHS-CISA coordination across healthcare sector.
Pensacola pediatrician appointed to federal health task force
Dr. Patrick Hunter was named to the U.S. Preventive Services Task, which is tasked with improving the health of Americans through evidence-based recommendations about preventive services.
Department of Health and Human Services and the Justice Department’s Civil Division Announce Anti-Fraud Healthcare Self-Disclosure Pilot Program
HHS launched a six-month Healthcare False Claims Act Self-Disclosure Pilot Program for healthcare companies
North Carolina gets nearly $7M from SAMHSA to boost mental health services
Nearly $7 million in grant funding is headed to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) to assist with mental health services.
New Eligibility Rules Proposed For Health Insurance Marketplace Enrollees
# Marketplace Eligibility Checks Tightened Under HHS Proposal ## Why It Matters Health insurance Marketplace applicants and enrollees would face new...
Senate Finance Committee Advances Health and Tax Nominees
Senate Finance Committee votes to advance four nominees for HHS Deputy Secretary, IRS Chief Counsel, and Tax Court judge positions. See the results.
Child dies from bacterial infection, state health department reports
A child died last month from complications of the invasive Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infection, DPHHS said.
Democratic Senators Reintroduce the Health Infrastructure Security and Accountability Act
On September 17, 2026, two Democratic Senators reintroduced the Health Infrastructure Security and Accountability Act, which seeks to improve A pair of Democratic Senators reintroduced the Health Infrastructure Security and Accountability Act, which seeks to increase healthcare cybersecurity standards. The bill calls for $1.3 billion in government investment to help healthcare organizations adopt the essential and enhanced HHS cybersecurity goals, including $800 million for rural and underserved hospitals.
Lehigh Valley Health Network Pays $800K Penalty to Resolve HIPAA Violations
Lehigh Valley Health Network has agreed to settle alleged violations of the HIPAA Rules with the HHS’ Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and will pay an Lehigh Valley Health Network has agreed to pay an $800,000 financial penalty to resolve alleged violations of the HIPAA Privacy, Security, and Breach Notification Rules. The settlement stems from an investigation of a 2023 BlackCat ransomware attack involving the theft of the ePHI of almost 250,000 patients.
HHS declares public health emergency in Alabama after Hurricane Isaias
The designation allows federal waivers giving Medicare, Medicaid and CHIP providers flexibility to ensure uninterrupted service as storm recovery continues.
VP Vance & HHS Secy. Kennedy Join Admin. Officials and Health & Tech Industry Leaders at MAHA Summit
Vice President Vance and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. join administration officials and health care and tech industry leaders at the 2026 MAHA Summit in Washington, DC.
President Trump Signs Historic Executive Order to Advance Women’s Health, Championed by First Lady Melania Trump
President Donald J. Trump, with the leadership and support of First Lady Melania Trump, signed an executive order, Advancing Women’s Health to Improve Outcomes in All Phases of Life.
Effectiveness of NC certificate-of-need law meant as healthcare guardrail in doubt
NC certificate-of-need law governs building healthcare facilities. Research and recent outcomes suggest it may do more harm than good.
Indian Health Service Awards $3.5 Million for Tribal Food and Nutrition Initiatives
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Indian Health Service, has awarded $3.5 million to 14 Tribal and urban Indian communities.
WATCH LIVE: HHS unveils new crackdown on fraud and abuse in federal health programs
The Health Department announces enforcement and oversight measures designed to identify fraud faster, strengthen accountability and protect federal health programs from abuse.
Leading Employers Back Expansion of Electronic Prior Authorization to Self-Funded Health Plans
More patients and doctors could spend less time navigating faxes, phone calls, and paperwork as leading employers work to expand electronic prior authorization
NC announces $17 million in federal funds to improve rural mental health services
Gov. Stein and NCDHHS announced $17 million in funding for mental health services through the NC Rural Health Transformation Program.
Advancing Women's Health to Improve Outcomes in All Phases of Life
The Executive Order (“EO”) makes it federal policy to prioritize turning women’s health research into better clinical care at every life stage, and it directs HHS, through NIH, to set up a new Women’s Health Division within 90 days. In coordination with the NIH Office of Research on Women’s Health, the Division will focus on, among other things, understudied women’s health conditions, greater inclusion of women and girls in clinical trials and grant recipients’ adherence to NIH's policy on sex as a biological variable. The EO also creates a White House Women’s Health Task Force, co-chaired by the Secretary of HHS and the Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff and composed of officials from other departments and agencies.
Science Hill High School holds microscope lab dedication
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) – Science Hill High School (SHHS) held a dedication event for its newly equipped microscope lab on Monday. The event highlighted the Johnson City Public Schools Fou…
HHS’s Elimination of Disparate Impact to Determine Discrimination: Potential Implications for Health and Health Care
This brief provides background on Title VI, summarizes the key changes in the 2026 final rule, and discusses the potential implications for racial and ethnic health disparities.
KCCI Investigates: HHS revamping county health departments to regions
Iowa’s 99 public county health departments are set to shift budgets and services under a new regionalization plan led by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.
Between The Lines: Vikings 15, Dolphins 10
Vikings Entertainment Network's Tatum Everett was joined by Ben Leber to break down the Minnesota Vikings 15-10 win over the Miami Dolphins during Week 4 of the 2026 season.
County health officials fear Iowans will lose out under HHS plan
The state’s public health system is being reorganized to coordinate services across counties in a move that will group public health departments by region. One health department will act as a lead agency and administer state funds to other agencies in its region, and part of each region’s funds will have to cover the lead […]
HHS Seeks Public Input on Wireless Technology Safety, Scientists Urge Caution
A call for the public to share their experiences on the health impacts of wireless technologies has raised eyebrows among scientists.
Texas health agency proposes eliminating children’s autism program
In its budget request to the Legislature for the 2028-2029 biennium, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) proposed eliminating funding for the Children’s Autism Program (CAP) entir…
NCDHHS rolls out updated four-year plan, sets four immediate health priorities
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has announced an updated four-year strategic plan and four immediate priority areas intended to guide
HHS green lights six peptides, despite concerns from FDA scientists
Great news for peptide fans: The Trump administration is giving the peptide craze a regulatory boost, despite objections from FDA career scientists.
Gov. Stein and NCDHHS announces $17 million for rural mental health services
North Carolina will invest more than $17 million to expand rural mental health and substance use services in multiple ENC counties, including crisis-response te
HHSC Highlights Resources During Down Syndrome Awareness Month | Texas Health and Human Services
HHSC Early Childhood Intervention and DSHS Healthy Mothers and Babies programs offer support for families with children diagnosed with Down syndrome.
What's behind HHS claims that gender-affirming care 'may' radicalize
The report is the agency's latest effort to chip away at trust in established health care models for transgender people. Critics say it frames transgender identity as illegitimate or even dangerous.
Jennifer Lawrence teaming up with ‘Weapons’ director Zach Cregger for sci-fi thriller ‘The Flood’
Jennifer Lawrence is joining forces with ‘Weapons’ filmmaker Zach Cregger for his next movie, the sci-fi thriller ‘The Flood.’
HHS Launches Coordinated Effort to Strengthen Breast Cancer Screening and Early Detection
HHS, through the Office on Women’s Health announced coordinated efforts with the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and DenseBreast-info.org to strengthen breast cancer screening.
Secretary Kennedy Brings ‘Take Back Your Health Tour’ to Texas and Florida to Advance Prevention and Improve Patient Care
HHS Secretary Kennedy, Jr. brought his “Take Back Your Health Tour” to Texas & Florida last week to advance President Trump’s Make America Healthy Again agenda
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Recommends Science-Based Thresholds to Target Dangerous Enhanced Kratom Products
Kratom products credit: CDPH DEA takes action based on updated recommendation from HHS October 11, 2026 - WASHINGTON - On Friday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services relesed the following: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provided a new recommendation to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) that establishes science-based thresholds for 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI), potent opioid compounds associated with products marketed as kratom. The Department of Justice today announced that DEA issued new Notices of Intent reflecting HHS’ updated scientific analysis and recommendations, including a new Notice of Intent for 7-OH and MGPI incorporating HHS’ recommended concentration and ratio thresholds. Following a review of available scientific data and comments, HHS Assistant Secretary for Health Admiral Brian Christine, M.D., recommended that DEA use concentration or ratio-based thresholds to determine which products containing 7-OH and MGPI are subject to Schedule I control for purposes of temporary scheduling of these substances under the Controlled Substances Act. The recommendation is designed to target concentrated or chemically altered products while distinguishing them from natural botanical kratom products, which may contain trace amounts of 7-OH and MGPI. “We are drawing a clear line between natural kratom and dangerous, enhanced opioid products,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “We listened to the public, followed the science, and developed a clear recommended threshold for temporary scheduling that targets concentrated 7-OH and MGPI without sweeping natural botanical kratom into Schedule I. The Trump Administration will continue taking decisive action against dangerous products that fuel addiction while making sure our policies are grounded in rigorous science.” Under the recommendation, 7-OH and MGPI would be controlled in Schedule I for purposes of temporary scheduling when either substance alone, or their combined amount when both are present: Exceeds 1 milligram per gram in solid powders, encapsulated material, or other solid forms, or exceeds 1 milligram per milliliter in liquid preparations; or When the mass of mitragynine present divided by the mass of 7-OH, or MGPI, or the combined amount of 7-OH and MGPI if both present, is less than 100. The ratio-based approach reflects the alkaloid composition of natural kratom products and provides a way to identify products intentionally enhanced or concentrated with 7-OH or MGPI. Available scientific data indicate that 7-OH occurs naturally in botanical kratom at relatively low or trace levels, while some evidence reviewed by FDA suggests MGPI may also occur at trace levels in some natural or kratom-derived products. FDA's scientific review found that 7-OH is substantially more potent than morphine in preclinical studies, with available data indicating approximately two to nine times greater potency depending on the study. FDA also identified evidence supporting a meaningful risk of opioid-like physical dependence and withdrawal from MGPI. “Our recommendation gives DEA a scientifically supportable framework to distinguish natural botanical kratom from products that have been concentrated or manipulated to deliver dangerous levels of potent opioid compounds,” said Assistant Secretary for Health Admiral Brian Christine, M.D. “This approach allows us to focus on the products that pose the greatest threat to public health.” In July 2025, following an FDA scientific and medical evaluation, HHS recommended that 7-OH above a specified threshold be placed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. In July 2026, DEA announced its intent to temporarily schedule 7-OH above a specified threshold, and HHS simultaneously sought public comment on the proposed threshold. DEA subsequently temporarily placed MGPI and two synthetic 7-OH derivatives, MGM-15 and MGM-16, in Schedule I. Since then, questions have emerged about how scheduling could affect natural botanical kratom products potentially containing trace amounts of MGPI. The new HHS recommendation responds to those concerns by providing DEA with a more precise threshold based on both the concentration of 7-OH and MGPI and their relationship to mitragynine, the predominant alkaloid in kratom. HHS and FDA will continue working with DEA to protect Americans from dangerous concentrated and synthetic opioid products while ensuring federal policy is grounded in the best available science. Source: HHS
July 2026 Healthcare Data Breach Report
In July 2026, 77 healthcare data breaches affecting 500 or more individuals were reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office In July 2026, 77 healthcare data breaches affecting 500 or more individuals were reported to the HHS Office for Civil Rights, involving the protected health information of more than 33 million individuals. That’s a 10% month-over-month increase in data breaches and a 642% increase in affected individuals.
Human Health Sciences Degree Prepared Alumna for Physical Therapy School
Fatima Pena-Torres, a 2025 UNC Greensboro graduate, did not always picture herself becoming a physical therapist.
HHS launches 4 new vaccine injury research, reporting initiatives
The U.S. | The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Thursday announced a series of actions aimed at strengthening the federal government's response to vaccine-related health concerns.
Fierce Healthcare Regulatory Recap: HHS presses medical groups on gender-affirming care for minors; CMS distributes RHTP funding to 5 states
Stay up to date on the latest across Washington, D.C. with this weekly brief. Read below for news from Oct. 12 to Oct. 16. | The latest news from CMS and HHS this week: HHS demands info on ‘sex-rejecting procedures’ for minors, CMS releases more RHTP funds and more.
HHS Unveils Bold New Plan to Combat Alzheimer’s and Dementia
HHS announced the 2026 Update to the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias.
Montana Health Department Director Stepping Down for Private-Sector Job
The director of Montana’s largest state agency, the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), is stepping down from his position at the end of October for a job in the private sector. Charlie Brereton, 31, has led DPHHS since 2022, after serving as the agency’s chief of staff and as Gov. Greg Gianforte’s […]
HHS recognizes 2026 Behavioral Health and Children and Family Services Conference award recipients | Health and Human Services North Dakota
North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) recognized five individuals and teams for their outstanding contributions to children, families and behavioral health services during the 2026 Behavioral Health & Children and Family Services Conference. The annual awards recognize providers and professionals who demonstrate exceptional service, innovation, leadership and a commitment to improving the lives of North Dakotans.
Kennedy renews attacks on vaccines at Children’s Health Defense conference
Kennedy, who previously downplayed his anti-vaccine activism, has now made it a key element in midterm elections and central to his legacy as HHS secretary.
Secretary Kennedy Secures Commitments from More Than 250 Hospitals to Make Hospital Food Healthier
HHS announced that more than 250 hospitals nationwide have signed the Make Hospital Food Healthier Pledge
Federal agencies to collaborate to 'strengthen' review of glyphosate
HHS plans to collaborate on research with other federal agencies as the EPA evaluates the human health risks of glyphosate.
Senate Health Panel Delays Bill as Nominees Await Vote
Senate Health Committee recesses HHS markup as measles cases rise. Surgeon General nominee delayed. See why this matters for public health policy.
HHS awards nearly $250M in addiction treatment, overdose prevention grants
The U.S. | Projects supported include those to strengthen mental health support in schools, expand trauma treatment for families and children and more.
New Regulations Make It Easier to Find, Compare, and Report Healthcare Pricing and Coverage Information
HHS announced that Americans will have access to more reliable, accessible, and actionable information about their health coverage
State AG Oversight of Health Care Transactions: Key Takeaways From NAAG
Health care market pressures and the evolving role of state enforcement were the focus of a recent National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG)
WATCH LIVE: HHS Secretary RFK Jr speaks at Children's Health Defense conference
Kennedy delivers the keynote address at an event centered on defending kids' health.
MTSU School of Ag receives grant for mental health initiative with Center for Health and Human Services
Middle Tennessee State University has been named Tennessee’s lead partner organization for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network South, or FRSAN South, with the MTSU School of Agriculture and Center for Health and Human Services jointly leading the statewide effort.
HHS announces new process for agency’s PPE purchases
A newly introduced quarterly forecast is aimed at “better emergency preparedness,” an agency official says.
Bates named executive director of HHS Medical Services Division | Health and Human Services North Dakota
North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) has named health policy expert Stephanie Bates to lead its Medical Services Division, which administers Medicaid services, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, autism services and other health-related services that benefit North Dakotans.
STEMsters gives younger learners hands-on science experience
This school year, seniors Mohashin Tasfiya, Raisa Kamal, Amber Liu, and Saniha Jasrah, brought a new chapter of the STEMsters, a non-profit organization originally created in California, to Townsend Harris High School. The association aims to expose STEM topics to younger students through hands-on-projects, inspiring them for their future careers. STEMsters meets after school with...
Potential measles exposure on a train in Minot | Health and Human Services North Dakota
BISMARCK, ND (Oct. 2, 2026) – A passenger with measles traveled on Amtrak's westbound Empire Builder, which departed Chicago on Sept. 23 and arrived in Minot the morning of Sept. 24. This created a potential exposure risk for passengers and anyone at the station while the train was scheduled to be in Minot from approximately 9:06 to 9:51 a.m. CT. The passenger reported getting off the train to use the restroom at the Minot station at approximately 9:30 a.m.Anyone who was at the Amtrak station in Minot while this train was stopped, as well as passengers who were traveling on this train, may have been exposed to measles. Individuals who may have been exposed and have received at least one dose of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine or previously had measles (likely those born before 1957) do not need to quarantine but should monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure. Individuals who have not received a dose of the MMR vaccine should quarantine (stay home) and monitor for symptoms for 21 days following exposure.
North Dakota Health and Human Services Responds to 2025 Biennial Audit | Health and Human Services North Dakota
Bismarck, ND (October 29, 2026) - North Dakota Health and Human Services is pleased to say the 2025 biennial audit released by the State Auditor’s Office shows strong overall performance across its programs, safeguards and operations. In a biennial budget of nearly $6 billion, auditors identified only seven findings, which demonstrates effective oversight and responsible program management.
HHSC Encourages Preventive Care During Breast Cancer Awareness Month | Texas Health and Human Services
HHSC is encouraging preventive care and screenings for women during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
Nebraska DHHS extends health alert for toxic algae at lakes in Gage and Jefferson counties
Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services has extended a health alert for toxic blue-green algae at Big Indian Lake in Gage County and Cub Creek Lake in Jefferson County.
HHS issues seven nonconformity letters in crackdown on health data blocking
The Trump administration is seeking to give patients access to electronic health information through the enforcement of regulations and “troubleshooting call[s].”
HHSC Reaches Construction Milestone for New Wichita Falls State Hospital | Texas Health and Human Services
HHSC celebrated a key stage in construction of the new Wichita Falls State Hospital with the placement of the final steel beam.
Steve Hilton presses Xavier Becerra on AI regulation and legislation
During CNN’s debate, Hilton pressed Becerra on harsh criticism attributed to former Biden policy adviser Susan Rice in an Axios report from 2024. Rice denied those remarks.Becerra responded by pointing to his record, saying he “helped create millions of jobs” during his time in Congress, as California’s attorney general and as HHS secretary.
BHHS Fox & Roach to relocate and expand Main Line HQ after 40 years
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach to relocate its Main Line headquarters to a 53,000-square-foot Berwyn office in early 2027.
What CDC's new teen health survey shows, and what it skips
Teen suicide risk hit a 10-year low in 2025. Guns, sexual violence, and self-harm. Where are the 2025 data on transgender teens? Missing data changes public health policy. Teen suicide risk hit a 10-year low in 2025. CDC asked more than 10,000 high school students over 100 questions in spring 2025. Yesterday, it published a report covering a fraction of them. The report focsed on five areas: diet, physical activity, sleep, digital behaviors, and mental health, reflecting the priorities of the Make America Healthy Again movement. There was good news. Fewer teens seriously considered suicide in 2025 than in any survey year since 2015: 14%, down from 20% in 2023. Sadness fell. Underlying Conditions is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe Sports participation, which dipped to 49% in 2021, is back to its 2015 level of 58%. Daily PE fell from 27% to 20% in two years, while fewer students eat breakfast daily than a decade ago. Guns, sexual violence, and self-harm. The questionnaire is public, and it goes well beyond those five areas. Students answered questions about sexual violence, self-harm, and whether they got help when they felt sad or anxious. They said how quickly they could get a loaded gun. They reported whether food ran out at home and whether they felt close to people at school. There were questions about sexual identity, including whether they were transgender. The report did not publish any of the answers students gave to those questions. CDC posts the raw survey data online, so anyone can see what the report left out. The report doesn’t cover the health of sexual minority students. Among students who identified as gay, lesbian, bisexual, questioning, or another non-straight identity, persistent sadness fell from 66% to 57% between 2023 and 2025. Serious thoughts of suicide fell from 41% to 30%. Those drops were bigger than the ones among straight students, although the gap remains wide: 28% of straight students reported persistent sadness, about half the rate of LGBQ+ students. About 1 in 7 girls reported sexual violence in the past year. One in 6 students hurt themselves on purpose. Among students who needed help for sadness or anxiety, half rarely or never got it. And among students who had seriously considered suicide, 43% said they could get a loaded gun without an adult’s permission. One protective factor rose sharply. In 2023, 55% of students said they felt close to people at their school; in 2025, 63% did. CDC’s earlier research ties that kind of connection to better mental health. Where are the 2025 data on transgender teens? In 2023, CDC's national survey asked high school students, for the first time, whether they were transgender. Their answers are the only nationally representative data on transgender teens, and their mental health is by far the worst of any demographic. That year, 71% of transgender students reported persistent sadness, 54% seriously considered suicide, and 26% attempted it, compared with 38%, 18%, and 8% of cisgender students. But we don’t have 2025 data. The timing matters because students took the survey in spring 2025, as federal policy toward transgender youth shifted. On January 28th, an executive order directed agencies to end federal support for gender-affirming care for people under 19, and several hospitals paused that care within days. In February, the CDC said it would no longer process transgender identity data. Later in 2025, the Supreme Court upheld Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors, and HHS ended the 988 Lifeline’s dedicated line for LGBTQ+ youth. Researchers disagree about how much state policy shapes trans teens’ mental health. A 2024 Trevor Project study estimated that anti-trans laws increased suicide attempts among trans and nonbinary youth. Critics dispute its methods and its estimates. The 2025 survey could have added national evidence to that fight. CDC collected the data but hasn’t publicly released it. Missing data changes public health policy. Surveillance works as a feedback loop. It can show officials whether their policies help or hurt. The CDC didn’t provide data on the students most exposed to transgender policy shifts. The report kept measures that frame health as personal choice, like fruit, breakfast, and sports. It left out measures that track policy, like gun access, mental healthcare, food at home, and school climate, all of which respond to what legislators and agencies decide. HHS did not respond to questions that I sent on September 21st.
HHS announces new healthy lifestyle initiative at Chatham health center
U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced a new initiative.
HHS Secretary RFJ Jr. announces maternal health investments at Des Moines stop
HHS Secretary RFJ Jr. announces maternal health investments at Des Moines stop
Mayor Sarno meets with DHHS Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris and Health and Racial Equity Coordinator and Former Mayoral Aide Shenell Ford for an Update and Review
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and Chief of Staff Molly Shea met with Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris and Racial Equity Coordinator and former Mayoral Aide Shenell Ford for an update on the Youth Commission. Mayor Sarno stated, “It was great to be with DHHS Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris and Health and Racial Equity Coordinator, my former Aide Shenell Ford as they shared updates and review in regards to the youth commission. I look forward to continuing to work with them both, and all partners on the youth commission for the betterment of our City. I commend both Commissioner Caulton-Harris and Shenell on their steadfast work to bring back this commission.”
RFK Jr pushes back on reports of federal health coverage cuts
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. disputes reports that the administration is cutting people from Medicare, Medicaid or Obamacare, saying it is targeting duplicate enrollments and records for deceased individuals.
HHS Launches Health Center Healthy Lifestyle Commitment to Advance Nutrition, Prevention, and Healthy Living
HHS Secretary Kennedy joined by HRSA Administrator Tom Engels, today launched the HHS Health Center Healthy Lifestyle Commitment.
New Hampshire Receives Over $2 Million in Federal Grants to Support Mental Health Efforts Statewide
Governor Kelly Ayotte and Commissioner Lori Weaver of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) celebrated New Hampshire receiving over $2 million in federal grants aimed at expanding behavioral health crisis support and mental health services across the state. The grants will provide critical funding for New Hampshire’s 988 Lifeline and support mental health...
GOP candidate Charles vows to dismantle DHHS
Charles drew loud claps and cheers when he talked about dismantling the state Department of Health and Human Services, saying the state has not done enough to protect children in the child welfare system.
Viewpoint: Kennedy’s ‘bad science’: MAGA embrace bolsters HHS secretary’s influence and popularity
Pennsylvania has recorded four measles deaths this year — the state’s first in 35 years — yet the federal government’s official measles death count still
HHS cuts minority health budget for RFK Jr.’s security
HHS cut $12 million from its Office of Minority Health as Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s security costs rose, prompting criticism from congressional caucus l...
Kiggans, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Discuss Healthcare Workforce Challenges, Tour Regional Health Professions Center at TCC
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA — Today, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) welcomed U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Secretary Robert F....
Polk County vaccination services at risk under regionalization plan
Polk County health officials painted a somber picture of services at stake while explaining plans by Iowa HHS to regionalize public health.
Holland & Knight Health Dose: September 29, 2026 | Insights
Senate returns for its final legislative session before recess, with FDA and HHS nominations pending and debate continuing over proposed HHS funding rescissions.
HOMETOWN HEALTH: New kidney care national plan launched by HHS this week
Kidney disease is one of the nation’s most common chronic diseases.
HHS launches new NIH clinic to study, care for people with vaccine injuries
The Health and Human Services Department has launched a new National Institutes of Health clinic to study and care for people with vaccine injuries.