Gail Kirkland

Texas Health and Human Services

Overview The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is an agency within the Texas Health and Human Services System. In September 2016, Texas began transforming how it delivers health and human services to qualified Texans, with a goal of making the Health and Human Services System more efficient and effective. Sept. 1, 2017, marked another major milestone in this transformation. The new accountable, restructured system: - Makes it easier for people to find out about the services or benefits for which they may qualify. - Better integrates programs by removing bureaucratic silos and grouping similar programs and services together. - Creates clear lines of accountability within the organization. - Includes well-defined and objective performance metrics for all organizational areas. Texas Health and Human Services now consists of 2 agencies: the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). HHS is headquartered in Austin, TX. Services Provided - Medicaid for families and children - Long-term care for people who are older or have disabilities - SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) food benefits and TANF (Temporary Assistance For Needy Families) cash assistance for families Behavior health services - Services to help keep people who are older or who have disabilities in their homes or communities - Services for women or other people with special health needs Oversight of Regulatory Functions - Licensing and credentialing of long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and assisted living - Licensing child care providers - Managing the day-to-day operations of state supported living centers and state hospitals