About DHHS
Problem Statement
The current health and human services model and accompanying policies have led to a fragmented system of services creating unnecessary barriers and challenges to accessing care for those most in need. These systemic challenges contribute to inequities in health outcomes and determinants of health. A consolidated department will reduce these challenges and improve outcomes for all Utahns, particularly those within communities where disparities are greatest.
Vision
All Utahns have fair and equitable opportunities to live safe and healthy lives.
Mission
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services will support and serve all individuals
and communities throughout Utah. It will do so through effective policy and the operations
of an effective and efficient seamless system of services and programs that is centered
around the individuals and communities the department serves.
How we get there
We will:
Ensure quality care, services, and programs are accessible where and when they’re needed.
Foster safe and supportive environments.
Improve health outcomes, both physical and mental.
Create a high-quality and efficient department.
Build public trust in DHHS.
DHHS RESULTS-BASED ACCOUNTABILITY:
Our strategic plan
Click the image below to download our plan.
Utah cannot afford a delay in improving delivery of critical services to our underserved and marginalized communities. To ensure we have the right structure in place that better serves individuals and families as quickly as possible, the Executive Office of the Governor and legislature supported the passage of H.B. 365 State Agency Realignment during the 2021 general legislative session.
The statute directs the consolidation of the state’s two primary social service agencies: the Utah Department of Health (UDOH) and Department of Human Services (DHS), creating the Utah Department of Health and Human Services by July 1, 2022. A small piece of Medicaid eligibility components will move from the Department of Health to the Department of Workforce Services (DWS). These functions include Medicaid Eligibility Quality Control (MEQC), and eligibility adjudications. The proposed change will not move all of Medicaid to Workforce Services.
