Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs

ASPA serves as the Secretary's principal counsel on public affairs. The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs conducts national public affairs programs, provides centralized leadership and guidance for public affairs activities within HHS' Staff and Operating Divisions and regional offices, manages the Department’s digital communications, and administers the Freedom of Information and Privacy Acts. The Division leads the planning, development, and implementation of emergency incident communications strategies and activities for the Department. The ASPA reports directly to the HHS Secretary.