United states public health service

United States Public Health Service (USPHS) is a division of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) responsible for public health. It contains eight divisions and the Office of the Surgeon General.

History

The USPHS was established in 1798 by an act of the United States Congress to provide for the care of sick and injured sailors. This act led to the creation of a network of marine hospitals. Over the decades, the system evolved and expanded to include research, prevention, and promotion of public health.

Organization

The USPHS is headed by the Surgeon General of the United States, who is nominated by the President of the United States and confirmed by the United States Senate. The Surgeon General serves as the overall leader of the USPHS and its eight divisions.

Divisions

The eight divisions of the USPHS are:

• Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)
• Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
• Indian Health Service (IHS)
• National Institutes of Health (NIH)
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Each division has a specific focus and responsibilities related to public health.

Role and Responsibilities

The USPHS plays a critical role in protecting, promoting, and advancing the health and safety of the nation. Its responsibilities include research into disease and injury prevention, understanding health issues at the population level, establishing health policies, implementing prevention strategies, and promoting healthy behaviors.

See Also

• Public Health
• Department of Health and Human Services
• Surgeon General of the United States