Understanding the CDC
What is the CDC?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a federal agency under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). It is responsible for protecting public health through disease prevention, control, and response efforts in the United States and globally.
Key Areas of Focus
- Infectious Disease Control – Monitoring and responding to outbreaks such as influenza, COVID-19, and emerging health threats.
- Chronic Disease Prevention – Addressing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer through public health initiatives.
- Environmental Health – Ensuring clean air, water, and food safety.
- Injury and Violence Prevention – Researching and developing programs to reduce injuries and violence-related deaths.
- Workplace Health and Safety – Overseeing occupational health standards and conducting research to improve worker safety.
- Emergency Preparedness and Response – Responding to public health emergencies, including bioterrorism threats and natural disasters.
Mission and Goals
The CDC’s mission is to protect the health, safety, and security of the American people by preventing and controlling disease, promoting public health initiatives, and advancing global health security.
CDC Organizational Structure
The CDC is composed of various centers, institutes, and offices, each focusing on different aspects of public health. Key divisions include:
- National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD)
- National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP)
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
These divisions work collaboratively to implement research-based policies and public health programs.
Working with the CDC as a Government Contractor
Helpful Tips for IT Professionals and Consultants
- Understand CDC’s Public Health Mission – Align your work with the agency’s goals, particularly in health data management and digital modernization.
- Stay Informed on Regulations and Compliance – Adhere to laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA).
- Familiarize Yourself with CDC Systems – Key platforms include the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS) and the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS).
- Prioritize Security and Privacy – Ensure cybersecurity measures align with CDC standards to protect sensitive health data.
- Effective Communication is Key – Collaborate with epidemiologists, researchers, and policymakers to develop practical and compliant solutions.
- Utilize Agile and DevSecOps Practices – Implement modern development methodologies to improve efficiency and adaptability.
- Continuous Learning and Networking – Attend CDC conferences, industry days, and workshops to stay updated on trends and contract opportunities.
- User-Centered Design – Ensure IT solutions are intuitive and accessible for public health professionals and the general public.