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Greetings from the Secretary

Bio of Secretary Tommy G. Thompson

The Department of Health and Human Services touches the lives of every American. Our mission is to protect health and give a special helping hand to those who need assistance.

We provide support and protection to older Americans, and to the Nation's infants and children. We provide aid to people with disabilities, as well as assistance and new opportunity for those in need. In times of crisis, HHS services can save lives and rescue families.

At the same time, we are responsible for public health in the United States. We support the world's largest medical research effort. We assure the safety of foods and health care products. And we're fighting against the ravages of drug and alcohol abuse.

Many HHS programs are household words, like Medicare and Medicaid. Other programs are less well-known.

But all HHS services reach our citizens on an important personal level:

  • When a child is vaccinated against disease...
  • When a poor family gets income assistance or medical care...
  • When an absent parent contributes money that's owed for child support...

In each case, HHS is there --- working with states, local government and private organizations to deliver services where they're needed

The Department of Health and Human Services must be accessible to those it serves. Better service for our customers is one of my highest priorities as Secretary. And availability of HHS resources through electronic means is one part of better service to Americans.

I welcome you to HHS on the Internet. We'll be working on a continuous basis to add to this service and improve it. I invite your comments to help us serve the American people better.

Last revised: November 10, 2003

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