About OGA

Protecting Americans through Global Health Leadership

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the leading federal authority for protecting the health of all Americans. Through its programs and partnerships, HHS advances public health, strengthens health systems, and safeguards communities from health threats both at home and abroad.

About the Office of Global Affairs

The HHS Office of Global Affairs (OGA), located within the Office of the Secretary, provides leadership and expertise in global health diplomacy to create a safer, healthier world. As the lead coordinator for global health policy and initiatives across HHS and the U.S. government, OGA ensures that international engagements strengthen U.S. preparedness and health systems.

What We Do

OGA leads international cooperation on health, making sure that every global partnership and policy delivers benefits for the American people. We build and sustain health partnerships with foreign governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders to bring HHS expertise to global challenges and shape policies that makes America safer, healthier, and more prosperous.

OGA leverages HHS's extensive global presence spanning more than 60 countries to advance this mission. Our Health Attachés posted in U.S Embassies in Brazil, China, India, Mexico, Kenya, South Africa, and Switzerland serve as the Secretary's representatives abroad and play a critical role in health diplomacy. Working in coordination with the U.S. Department of State, OGA advances the Secretary's global priorities and strengthens U.S. leadership on health in key global forums including the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the G7, and the G20.

Why HHS Works Globally

In a connected world, health threats and solutions cross borders. By working globally, HHS ensures U.S. science, innovation, and expertise drive solutions that protect American communities and strengthen our nation's preparedness.

Through global engagement, OGA:

• Protects Americans First by strengthening early warning and rapid response to health threats abroad before they reach the U.S.
• Advances U.S. innovation through international scientific collaboration that accelerates medical breakthroughs and benefit American patients.
• Strengthens U.S. health systems by ensuring access to medicines and products, securing supply chains, and applying global best practices.
• Promotes U.S. leadership by shaping international health policies to reflect American priorities and values.

Our Leadership