Which description best describes the DHHS?

• A. An international agency focused on global health
• B. Primary government agency responsible for protecting this nation's health
• C. A private charitable organization
• D. A state-level health department

Answer: (B)

DHHS stands for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It is a federal cabinet-level department and the principal government body charged with protecting the health of the nation. Through major agencies like the CDC, FDA, NIH, and CMS, it runs nationwide public health programs, disease prevention efforts, regulation of food and drugs, medical research funding, and health services such as Medicare and Medicaid. It isn’t an international organization, it isn’t a private charity, and it isn’t a state-level department. Its federal scope and broad health responsibilities make it the best description for protecting the nation’s health.