Supporting program improvement

Across discretionary and mandatory programs, the Department of Health and Human Services manages over one trillion dollars in federal spending to improve the health and well-being of all Americans. The Assistant Secretary of Planning and Evaluation is focused on assessing and improving the impact of these programs relative to the federal government’s goals.

NORC’s work in support of this objective includes conducting environmental scans, literature review, expert convenings and producing toolkits and policy reports that directly inform policy and support well-being. Topics covered by our work include antimicrobial resistance, medical product supply chains, the role of artificial intelligence in health care, social determinants of health and health equity. 

Research making an impact on how important policies are implemented

Across a broad set of priorities, from implementation of the Evidence-based Policy Making Act to access to pharmaceutical therapy, and the impact of Artificial Intelligence on health equity, NORC’s work under this contract has directly influenced how the federal government approaches evaluation, required trainings, environmental health, and studying the implications of new technology on health for all Americans.

Given the ASPE’s role within the department, our work typically culminates in a final report synthesizing information gathered to qualitative research, analysis of secondary datasets, engagement with technical experts, peer reviewed journal articles, and “grey” literature on priority topics. The project allows ASPE to tap experts at NORC and partners on topics that emerge as federal health and human services priorities. These activities often include engaging with state policy makers on their work apply data to address health and human services policies.