HHS cuts 10,000 jobs, restructures to save $1.8B

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is cutting 10,000 jobs, reducing its workforce from 82,000 to 62,000.

The cuts include 3,500 positions at the FDA, 2,400 at the CDC and 1,200 at the NIH.

Last month, nearly 10,000 full-time workers accepted the Trump administration’s voluntary buyout offer; an additional 5,200 probationary workers were terminated.

HHS will consolidate 28 divisions into 15 and reduce regional offices from 10 to five, aiming to save $1.8 billion annually.

RFK Jr. says the restructuring will focus on preventing chronic illness by promoting better nutrition, clean water and environmental health.

Critics warn that reduced staffing may weaken Medicare, Medicaid and public health programs, making it harder to serve patients.

Employee notices may go out as early as Friday, with layoffs taking effect May 27.