GAO July 11, 2023
We have made about 400 recommendations to improve the government’s response for future public health emergencies. Congress and agencies have taken actions on about 45% of these recommendations.
Today’s WatchBlog post looks at our new report released today on five key areas where more action is still needed:
- Public health preparedness
- Improper payments and fraud
- Vulnerable populations
- Distribution of federal COVID-19 funding
- COVID-19 and the economy
Public health preparedness
Public health preparedness and response includes ensuring access to real-time information about emerging threats and access to diagnostic testing and medical countermeasures—such as drugs, vaccines, and supplies. We’ve found deficiencies in the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) ability to lead federal preparedness and response efforts. For example,...