Which agency is recognized as the primary public health and social service agency in the United States?

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is recognized as the primary public health and social service agency in the United States because it oversees a wide range of programs and policies that aim to protect the health of all Americans and provide essential human services. HHS is responsible for implementing key public health initiatives, managing healthcare research, and ensuring access to medicine, among other functions. Its broad scope includes the administration of programs like Medicare and Medicaid, as well as safeguarding the health of the nation's population through agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The other agencies mentioned, while vital, operate under the broader umbrella of HHS or serve more specialized roles. The CDC primarily focuses on disease control and prevention, making significant contributions to public health but not encompassing the full range of social services. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) implements health care programs but is more focused on access and equity in health services rather than public health in its entirety. The Department of Defense, while involved in public health regarding military personnel and veterans, does not serve the general population in the same comprehensive way as HHS. Thus, HHS stands out as the key agency responsible for both public health and