April 2023

The declaration of the COVID-19  public health emergency officially ends on May 11, 2023. This moment reflects the progress that has been made throughout the acute phase of the pandemic – including decreasing rates of deaths and hospitalizations. Still, many challenges continue. As we transition to the next chapter of public health, it’s imperative that we carry forward and apply all that we have learned from the past few years to ensure optimal recovery, improved health and well-being, equity, and enhanced resilience.

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has a clear mission: to protect and improve the health and resiliency of individuals, families, and communities in Iowa by providing high-quality programs and services. To realize this mission, Iowa HHS follows a data-driven approach — and looks to Healthy People to guide its efforts.