In a significant shift, Dr. Dorothy Fink has been appointed as the acting secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Following her appointment, Fink issued a directive to all division heads within HHS, imposing a temporary pause on outgoing communications until February 1. This measure aims to ensure that all documents intended for publication are reviewed and approved by presidential appointees before release. The directive affects various sub-agencies within HHS, including those responsible for Medicare, Medicaid, and technology policy. Additionally, the memo outlines restrictions on issuing regulations, guidance, notices, and public communications, including social media and press releases, pending review and approval. Public speaking engagements and official correspondence with lawmakers also require prior authorization from appointed officials.
Transitioning Leadership at HHS: Ensuring Smooth Policy Implementation
Dr. Dorothy Fink's appointment as acting secretary marks a transitional phase for the Department of Health and Human Services. As Robert Kennedy awaits his nomination hearing, Fink brings extensive experience in endocrinology, internal medicine, and pediatrics to this leadership role. Her background includes notable positions at prestigious institutions such as the Hospital for Special Surgery and Cornell University. The temporary communication pause is designed to facilitate a smooth transition by ensuring that all outgoing information aligns with the new administration’s policies and priorities. This precautionary measure underscores the importance of thorough review and approval processes for maintaining consistency and accuracy in federal communications.
The directive mandates that all divisions within HHS, including key agencies like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid and the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy, must refrain from sending any documents intended for publication to the Federal Register without prior approval. The Office of the Executive Secretary has withdrawn all unpublished documents from the Federal Register to facilitate this review process. This step ensures that any material affecting health, safety, environmental, financial, or national security functions receives immediate attention and proper authorization. By implementing these measures, HHS aims to uphold the integrity and effectiveness of its operations during this critical transition period.
Restructuring Communication Protocols: A Focus on Review and Approval
The temporary halt on outgoing communications reflects a strategic approach to managing the flow of information within the Department of Health and Human Services. This initiative extends beyond document submissions to the Federal Register, encompassing a wide range of communication channels. Social media posts, press releases, grant announcements, and general communications now require rigorous review and approval by designated presidential appointees. The directive also imposes a ban on public speaking engagements until events and materials have been vetted and approved. These measures aim to ensure that all communications reflect the new administration’s vision and objectives accurately.
To maintain operational continuity, HHS staff are instructed to notify the executive secretary policy coordinator for any documents or communications mandated by statute or impacting critical agency functions. This coordination ensures that essential services and communications proceed without disruption while adhering to the new guidelines. Dr. Fink emphasized the importance of this review process in her memo, stating that it allows the President’s appointees and designees to scrutinize and approve any regulations, guidance documents, and public communications. This approach not only enhances transparency but also fosters a cohesive and aligned communication strategy across all HHS divisions.