The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the U.S. federal agency responsible for public health oversight and administration of key health agencies, including NIH and OHRP.
HHS regulations and policies shape human subject protections, including the Common Rule and related compliance expectations for federally supported research. HHS oversight influences institutional assurance obligations, IRB operations, and requirements for ethical conduct and reporting. Guidance from HHS agencies helps standardize research governance across institutions. Understanding HHS frameworks is essential for compliant conduct of federally regulated studies.