DHDD Strategic Plan: Document Summary and Background

Document Summary

From October 2019 through August 2020, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) Division of Human Development and Disability (DHDD) undertook a strategic planning process to define its priorities and scope of work for the next 5 years (FY2021–2025). This document details the DHDD Strategic Plan and includes a background summary on the focus areas of the organization, information about DHDD, and an outline of how the Plan was developed and will be managed. The Strategic Plan reflects areas of work DHDD will continue to advance and expand during the next 5 years. Growth areas, listed at the bottom of each objective section, are areas DHDD will track for expansion as resources are made available.

The Strategic Plan will be used to ensure alignment of DHDD priorities, articulate its scope of work and unique value, and communicate more effectively with partners and stakeholders about its role in advancing health outcomes for those with, or at risk for, disabilities.

Background

Disabilities are a common part of life and impact almost every person, either directly or through someone else. People with disabilities often experience unique challenges achieving optimal health, whether related to a lifelong disability or one acquired later in life. These contribute to increased healthcare costs and lower standard of life. Many of these impacts, however, can be prevented or reduced through access to high-quality healthcare services and public health programs for people of all abilities.

People with, or at risk for, disabilities need to be included in all aspects of life for the same reasons anyone does—to be well, active, and part of the community.