PA Dept of Health – Deputy Secretary for Health Resources and Services – Harrisburg, PA

Healthcare Access and Resource Management

Office Overview

The Office of the Deputy Secretary for Health Resources and Services is a key executive division within the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Located in the Health and Welfare Building within the Capitol Complex, this deputate is responsible for overseeing programs that ensure equitable access to healthcare for all Pennsylvanians. The office directs strategic initiatives focused on rural health, primary care, and health equity, serving as a bridge between state policy and community health delivery.

Key Responsibilities

This office manages several critical bureaus and programs that support the commonwealth’s public health infrastructure:

• Health Research: Oversite of the Health Research Office, which manages CURE grants and other funding for biomedical and clinical research.
• Primary Care & Rural Health: Developing strategies to improve healthcare access in underserved and rural areas, including the recruitment of healthcare professionals.
• Special Populations: Managing programs tailored to specific groups, such as the Special Kids Network and minority health initiatives.
• Drug Surveillance: coordinating efforts to monitor prescription drug data to combat the opioid epidemic.

Strategic Impact

The Deputy Secretary works directly with the Secretary of Health to implement statewide health goals. By coordinating resources and data, this office helps determine where funding and medical services are most needed. They also play a vital role in regulating and supporting the healthcare workforce, ensuring that there are adequate providers to meet the needs of the population.

Visiting the Health and Welfare Building

As part of the Pennsylvania Department of Health headquarters, this office is located in a secure state facility. Visitors must have a scheduled appointment and will be required to pass through security screening and present valid photo identification upon arrival at the Health and Welfare Building on Forster Street.