DHHS

The Department of Health and Human Services (also abbreviated HHS) is the principal federal agency responsible for protecting the health of Americans and providing essential human services. DHHS encompasses major operating divisions including CDC, FDA, NIH, CMS, and numerous other agencies with significant contracting activity.

DHHS is one of the largest civilian contracting agencies, procuring IT systems, research services, healthcare delivery support, administrative services, and public health program support. The department follows HHSAR (HHS Acquisition Regulation) supplementing the FAR. Contractors should understand the diverse missions across DHHS components, as requirements and procurement approaches vary significantly between operating divisions.