HHS Announces Major Restructuring, Cutting 10,000 Jobs Amid Workforce Reduction
The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) made a shocking announcement on Thursday regarding a significant restructuring that will result in the elimination of 10,000 jobs. This dramatic move adds to about 10,000 employees who have voluntarily departed from the department since President Donald Trump assumed office.
According to HHS officials, this new restructuring initiative is projected to save taxpayers an impressive $18 billion. The combination of involuntary layoffs and voluntary departures marks a considerable reduction in the department's workforce, dropping from 82,000 employees to a leaner total of 62,000 full-time positions.
Internal documents obtained by The Wall Street Journal reveal that the cuts will heavily impact several key health agencies. Specifically, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will face the largest reductions, with 3,500 employees laid off, representing about 19% of its workforce. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is set to reduce its staff by 2,400 employees, accounting for 18% of its workforce.
In addition to these cuts, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will see a reduction of 1,200 employees, which constitutes 6% of its staff. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will also not be spared, losing 300 employees, or 4% of its workforce.
Moreover, part of this overhaul will include a significant consolidation of the HHS regional offices, which will be reduced from ten to five, reflecting a broader trend towards centralization and efficiency within the department.
As the HHS embarks on this ambitious restructuring plan, concerns abound regarding the impact on public health services and the overall efficacy of the department in the wake of such widespread layoffs. Critics fear that this drastic reduction in workforce may hinder the ability of these agencies to effectively respond to ongoing health challenges and emergencies.
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