Understanding ASPR
What is ASPR?
The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) is a division within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). ASPR is responsible for coordinating federal public health and medical preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for disasters and emergencies, including pandemics, bioterrorism, and natural disasters.
Key Areas of Focus
- Emergency Preparedness and Response – Develops and implements strategies to respond to health emergencies.
- Medical Countermeasures – Oversees the procurement and development of vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics for public health threats.
- Hospital Preparedness Program (HPP) – Supports healthcare systems in improving their readiness for disasters and health crises.
- Supply Chain and Logistics Management – Manages the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) to ensure emergency medical supplies are available.
- Public Health Security – Works with government agencies and private partners to enhance national health security and resilience.
Mission and Goals
ASPR’s mission is to strengthen the nation’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from public health and medical emergencies. It leads public health preparedness initiatives, coordinates emergency response activities, and ensures that medical countermeasures are readily available.
ASPR Organizational Structure
ASPR consists of multiple offices and programs that manage different aspects of public health preparedness. Key divisions include:
- Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) – Funds and oversees the development of medical countermeasures.
- Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) – Manages emergency medical supplies and distribution during crises.
- Office of Emergency Management (OEM) – Coordinates disaster response and recovery efforts.
- Office of Health Security (OHS) – Strengthens healthcare system preparedness and public health resilience.
- Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy (OPPRP) – Focuses on pandemic planning and policy development.
Working with ASPR as a Government Contractor
Helpful Tips for IT Professionals and Consultants
- Understand ASPR’s Emergency Response Framework – Familiarize yourself with federal emergency preparedness policies.
- Familiarize Yourself with ASPR Systems – Key platforms include:
- HHS emPOWER Program – Supports emergency response planning with health data tools.
- ASPR TRACIE (Technical Resources, Assistance Center, and Information Exchange) – Provides emergency preparedness resources.
- Ensure Compliance with Federal Emergency Management Standards – Follow cybersecurity, data security, and health privacy regulations.
- Support Digital Health Initiatives and Supply Chain Management – Help modernize emergency response systems and medical logistics.
- Engage with Healthcare Providers and Public Health Partners – Collaborate with hospitals, government agencies, and first responders.
- Stay Updated on Public Health Emergency Funding Opportunities – Participate in ASPR industry briefings and grant announcements.