Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services for Planning and Evaluation

Organizational Chart

Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) is a principal position within the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The ASPE serves as the main advisor to the Secretary of Health and Human Services on policy development and is responsible for major activities in the areas of policy coordination, legislation development, strategic planning, policy research, evaluation, and economic analysis.

Role and Responsibilities

The Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation leads the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, which is tasked with providing strategic advice, analysis, and coordination of policy development and evaluation for the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The office plays a critical role in the formulation of health, disability, human services, and science policy. It also oversees the department's strategic planning and provides coordination and support for HHS's evaluation and research activities.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting research and evaluation studies on health care and human services issues
• Developing and analyzing policy options for the Secretary and other senior officials
• Coordinating policy development and analysis across HHS's many divisions
• Providing leadership on cross-cutting strategic initiatives, such as health reform, data policy, and innovation in government

History

The position of Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation was established to ensure that policy formulation within HHS is based on sound analysis and evidence. Over the years, ASPE has been instrumental in providing data-driven insights and policy recommendations on a wide range of issues, from healthcare reform and Medicare/Medicaid policy to welfare and poverty.

Office Structure

The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation is organized into several divisions, each focusing on specific areas of policy analysis and research:

• The Division of Health Care Financing Policy
• The Division of Economic Support for Families
• The Division of Disability, Aging, and Long-Term Care Policy
• The Division of Science and Public Health Policy
• The Division of Human Services Policy

These divisions work collaboratively to address complex policy challenges and support the Secretary's priorities through rigorous analysis, evaluation, and strategic planning.

Impact

The work of ASPE has a significant impact on the development and implementation of health and human services policies in the United States. By providing comprehensive analyses and evaluations, ASPE helps ensure that policies are effective, efficient, and equitable. Its research and reports often serve as a foundation for legislative and regulatory actions, shaping the nation's health and human services landscape.

Current and Past Holders

The Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation is appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate. Over the years, the position has been held by distinguished policy experts and scholars who have contributed significantly to the field of health and human services policy.

See Also

• United States Department of Health and Human Services
• Secretary of Health and Human Services
• Health policy of the United States