National Institutes of Health

Definition

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is the primary agency of the United States government responsible for biomedical and public health research. It is part of the Department of Health and Human Services and is the largest source of funding for medical research in the world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The NIH is composed of 27 Institutes and Centers, each with a specific research agenda, such as cancer, heart disease, and infectious diseases.
2. The NIH is the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world, investing over $41 billion annually in medical research.
3. The NIH's Intramural Research Program employs over 6,000 scientists and supports research across a wide range of disciplines.
4. The NIH's Extramural Research Program provides grants to over 300,000 researchers at more than 2,500 universities and research institutions.
5. The NIH plays a crucial role in intergovernmental relationships, collaborating with other federal agencies, state and local governments, and international organizations on public health initiatives.

Review Questions

• Describe the structure and organization of the National Institutes of Health.
  • The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is composed of 27 Institutes and Centers, each with a specific research focus. This decentralized structure allows the NIH to address a wide range of biomedical and public health issues, from cancer and heart disease to infectious diseases and mental health. The NIH's Intramural Research Program conducts studies within its own facilities, while the Extramural Research Program provides funding for research at universities, medical schools, and other institutions. This diverse and multifaceted structure enables the NIH to play a central role in the nation's biomedical research efforts.
• Explain the significance of the NIH's role in intergovernmental relationships.
  • The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is a key player in intergovernmental relationships, as it collaborates with a wide range of federal agencies, state and local governments, and international organizations on public health initiatives. The NIH's extensive research capabilities and funding resources make it a valuable partner in addressing complex health challenges that transcend jurisdictional boundaries. By working with other government entities, the NIH can leverage its expertise and resources to develop and implement coordinated strategies for disease prevention, health promotion, and the advancement of medical knowledge. This intergovernmental collaboration is essential for addressing the multifaceted nature of public health issues and ensuring a cohesive, nationwide approach to improving the health and well-being of the American people.
• Analyze the impact of the National Institutes of Health Revitalization Act of 1993 on the agency's mission and operations.
  • The National Institutes of Health Revitalization Act of 1993 was a significant milestone in the history of the NIH, as it expanded the agency's mission and authority, increased funding for research, and established new initiatives to address health disparities. The act empowered the NIH to take a more proactive and comprehensive approach to addressing the nation's biomedical and public health challenges. By expanding the agency's mandate and resources, the Revitalization Act enabled the NIH to enhance its research capabilities, foster greater collaboration with external partners, and develop more targeted interventions to address the unique health needs of underserved populations. The increased funding and organizational changes resulting from the act have been instrumental in the NIH's ability to drive scientific breakthroughs, inform public health policies, and improve health outcomes for all Americans. The Revitalization Act's lasting impact has solidified the NIH's position as the preeminent biomedical research agency and a vital component of the intergovernmental framework for addressing complex health issues.

Related terms

Intramural Research Program: The Intramural Research Program is the internal research program of the NIH, which conducts studies within NIH facilities and laboratories.

Extramural Research Program: The Extramural Research Program of the NIH provides funding for research conducted by non-NIH scientists at universities, medical schools, and other research institutions.

National Institutes of Health Revitalization Act: This 1993 act expanded the NIH's mission and authority, increased funding for research, and established new initiatives to address health disparities.