Strengthening the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps: A View From The Assistant Secretary for Health

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To summarize the results of the major management review of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (2009-2010) and note related outcomes. METHOD: Narrative from the U.S. Assistant Secretary for Health, who directed and oversaw the management review. RESULTS: The management review led to 46 recommendations, all of which have since been implemented. The subsequent organizational and operational changes have unified reporting structures, streamlined the administrative Corps organizational structure, and transferred support services to providers with expertise in uniformed services to create a new integrated personnel and payroll system. Related processes have also prompted a systematic billet review as well as establishment of explicit criteria for eligibility to become a Corps officer. Corps leaders report improvements in recruiting talented officers, increased selectivity from the candidate pool, and enhanced matching of incoming officers with agency assignments. Furthermore, Corps activity has grown in both traditional and innovative ways. CONCLUSION: The Corps has enjoyed heightened activity and outcomes in the era of health reform. The management review and its implementation have strengthened the Corps, helping officers to do their job and achieve their mission.