Number: RS22602
Title: Public Health and Medical Preparedness and Response: Issues in the 110th Congress
Authors: Sarah A. Lister, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: The 2001 terrorist attacks, Hurricane Katrina, and concerns about an influenza ("flu") pandemic have sharpened congressional interest in the nation's systems to track and respond to public health threats. The 109th Congress reauthorized or established relevant programs in the Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Homeland Security (DHS). In its second session, the 110th Congress has focused its oversight of these programs on (1) the fitness of HHS and DHS - in terms of authority, funding, policies, and workforce - to respond to complex health emergencies; (2) how well they and other federal agencies coordinate their efforts; (3) the status of major federal initiatives, such as pandemic flu preparedness and disaster planning for at-risk populations; and (4) the effect of the upcoming presidential transition on authorities and programs that were established during the current administration. This report discusses key issues in public health and medical preparedness and response, citing additional CRS reports and other resources.
Pages: 6
Date: August 1, 2008