What is the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC)?
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is a state agency responsible for administering Medicaid, CHIP, and other health and human services programs in Texas. It's a big deal, folks. Like, really big. Think of it as the healthcare quarterback for the Lone Star State.
A Brief History
HHSC was created in 1997 by combining the Texas Department of Health and the Texas Department of Human Services. Basically, they took two awesome agencies and said, "Hey, let's make one super awesome agency!" And so they did.
What Does HHSC Do?
HHSC does a lot of stuff. Like, a LOT of stuff. Here are some of the main things they're responsible for:
- Medicaid: Medicaid is a health insurance program for low-income and disabled people. HHSC manages the Medicaid program in Texas, which covers millions of people.
- CHIP: CHIP is a health insurance program for children who are not eligible for Medicaid. HHSC also manages the CHIP program in Texas.
- TANF: TANF is a temporary assistance program for needy families. HHSC administers the TANF program in Texas.
- SNAP: SNAP is a food assistance program. HHSC administers the SNAP program in Texas.
- DFPS: DFPS is the Department of Family and Protective Services. DFPS is a part of HHSC and is responsible for investigating child abuse and neglect cases.
HHSC and COVID-19
HHSC played a crucial role in Texas' response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The agency helped distribute vaccines, test kits, and other resources to Texans. They also helped set up COVID-19 treatment facilities.
HHSC Leadership
HHSC is led by a commissioner who is appointed by the governor. The current commissioner is Kevin Salter.
HHSC Contact Information
If you need to contact HHSC, you can do so by phone, email, or mail. You can also find more information on the HHSC website.
Fun Facts About HHSC
- HHSC is the largest state agency in Texas.
- HHSC employs over 50,000 people.
- HHSC serves over 5 million Texans.
- HHSC has a budget of over $100 billion.
I hope you enjoyed this lengthy post about the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
Additional Resources
- HHSC Website:
https://www.hhs.texas.gov/ - HHSC Contact Information:
https://www.hhs.texas.gov/about/contact-us - HHSC Commissioner Kevin Salter:
https://www.hhs.texas.gov/about/leadership/health-human-services-commission-executive-council