Fact Check: "CDC funding is arriving at an 'eyedropper' pace, crippling health departments."
What We Know
Recent reports indicate that funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is significantly delayed, leading to serious repercussions for state and local health departments. According to NPR, health departments across the United States have reported that they have not received their expected funding on schedule, which has resulted in layoffs and halted public health initiatives (NPR).
Dr. Scott Harris, the head of Alabama's health department, noted that more than two-thirds of their funding comes from federal grants, predominantly from the CDC. He emphasized the risks posed by the lack of timely funding, stating that without a notice of award, health departments cannot incur costs for ongoing programs (NPR).
The CDC has been operating under a system where it receives funding in 30-day increments due to delays in the apportionment process, which typically takes 45 to 60 days after a budget is approved. This year, however, the delays have extended beyond that, leading to a situation described by a senior CDC official as receiving funds "with an eyedropper" (NPR).
Analysis
The claim that CDC funding is arriving at an "eyedropper" pace is supported by multiple sources, particularly from CDC staff and public health officials. The characterization of the funding delays as crippling is corroborated by the direct consequences observed in various states, including layoffs of critical staff in health departments and the cessation of essential public health services (NPR, NPR).
The reliability of the sources is high, as they include statements from CDC staff and public health officials who are directly involved in the funding process. NPR's reporting is based on interviews with these officials, providing firsthand accounts of the funding issues. However, it should be noted that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) did not respond to inquiries regarding the funding delays, which leaves some questions about the reasons behind the slow disbursement of funds (NPR).
The implications of these funding delays are serious, as they jeopardize public health initiatives that rely on timely financial support. The situation has led to increased workloads for remaining staff, potentially compromising public health outcomes (NPR).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that CDC funding is arriving at an "eyedropper" pace, crippling health departments, is substantiated by credible sources and direct testimonies from public health officials. The delays in funding have resulted in significant operational challenges for health departments, including layoffs and halted programs, which supports the assertion that the funding situation is indeed critical.
