20 US Department of Health and Human Services Interview Questions and Answers

The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the federal government’s principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services. HHS works to enhance and protect the health and well-being of all Americans, by providing for effective health and human services and fostering advances in medicine, public health, and social services.

If you’re interested in working for HHS, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your qualifications, experience, and knowledge of the health and human services field. In this guide, we’ve gathered a list of sample HHS interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

US Department of Health and Human Services Interview Process

The interview process at US Department of Health and Human Services can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most positions will require at least one in-person interview. The interview process is generally very thorough, and candidates can expect to be asked questions about their experience and qualifications. In some cases, candidates may also be asked to complete a written assessment or take a skills test. Overall, the interview process is generally positive, but it can be lengthy, so candidates should be prepared for a long wait before hearing back about a decision.

1. What is your experience working with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that allows the public to request information from government agencies. The purpose of FOIA is to ensure transparency in government operations and promote accountability.

This question helps an interviewer assess your experience with working within a government agency, as well as how you handle requests for information. In your answer, describe what it was like to work with FOIA requests and provide examples of how you handled them.

Example: “In my current role, I have worked with FOIA requests on several occasions. For example, one time a citizen requested all documents related to our department’s budgeting process. I reviewed each document to determine which ones were relevant and then sent the rest back to the appropriate departments. This helped me save time by not having to sort through irrelevant documents.”

2. Do you have any experience as a paralegal?

The US Department of Health and Human Services hires paralegals to help with legal matters. The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have any experience working in a law office or other similar environment. If you do, share your experiences and explain how they helped prepare you for this role. If you don’t have any experience as a paralegal, you can talk about your interest in the field and why you think it would be an interesting career path.

Example: “I worked as a paralegal at my previous job, where I assisted attorneys with their cases. This experience taught me how to work within the court system and gave me valuable research skills that I use every day. It also taught me how to communicate effectively with clients and coworkers.”

3. How do you think technology has impacted health services in the United States?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of the role technology plays in healthcare and how you might use it to improve services within their organization. Your answer should demonstrate that you understand the benefits of using technology in health care, as well as how you would apply those benefits to a specific situation or project.

Example: “I believe that technology has had a significant impact on health services in the United States because it allows us to provide more efficient and effective care for patients. For example, I worked with a hospital system where we used electronic medical records to streamline patient care and ensure all doctors were working from the same information when treating patients. This allowed us to reduce errors and increase efficiency, which saved the hospital money and improved patient outcomes.”

4. Can you tell me about an audit that you worked on and how it helped an organization improve their operations?

The US Department of Health and Human Services conducts audits to ensure that organizations are following regulations. Audits can be a part of your daily responsibilities as an auditor, so it’s important to show the interviewer you have experience with this type of work.

Example: “In my last position, I conducted an audit for a large hospital system. The purpose of the audit was to evaluate how well the organization was complying with federal privacy laws. During the course of the audit, we found several areas where the hospital could improve its operations. For example, we discovered that some employees were not properly trained on how to handle patient information. We also found that the hospital had failed to report certain incidents to regulators. After our findings, the hospital implemented new training programs and procedures.”

5. Why did you choose to pursue a career in public service?

This question is a great way to show your passion for the field and how you can contribute to the department. When answering, it’s important to highlight what inspired you to pursue this career path. You may also want to mention any mentors or experiences that helped you along the way.

Example: “Ever since I was young, I’ve been passionate about helping others. My parents were both teachers, so they always encouraged me to find a career where I could make an impact in someone else’s life. After graduating from college with my degree in social work, I worked at a local hospital as a case manager. There, I got to help patients navigate their healthcare options and provide them with resources to improve their lives.”

6. Give us an example of a time when you had to work under pressure.

Working in the government can often involve tight deadlines and other time constraints. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working under pressure and that you are able to meet deadlines. In your answer, explain a specific situation where you had to work under pressure and how you handled it.

Example: “In my current role as an analyst, I am responsible for providing recommendations on policy changes based on data analysis. Recently, there was a new bill being proposed by our state legislature that would affect many of our citizens. My team and I were tasked with analyzing the bill’s potential impact and making recommendations to the governor within two weeks. We worked long hours every day to complete the task.”

7. What would you say is your greatest strength and weakness?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s important to be prepared with an answer that shows your strengths while also being honest about any weaknesses you may have. When answering this question, try to focus on your skills and abilities rather than listing personal traits or preferences.

Example: “My greatest strength is my ability to work well under pressure. I am able to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently so that I can meet deadlines and complete projects before they’re due. My weakness would be my attention to detail. While I do my best to proofread documents and check for errors, sometimes I miss small mistakes. I’ve learned to ask others to proofread my work as well.”

8. Are you comfortable handling confidential information?

The US Department of Health and Human Services handles a lot of confidential information, so it’s important that you can keep things private. Your answer should show the interviewer that you understand how to handle sensitive information.

Example: “Yes, I am comfortable with handling confidential information. In my last position, I was responsible for maintaining patient records. I kept all documents in locked filing cabinets and only accessed them when necessary. I also ensured that any emails regarding patients were sent through encrypted channels.”

9. Tell us what motivates you to come into work every day.

This question is a great way to learn more about the candidate’s personality and values. It can also help you determine if they are motivated by similar things as your organization. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something specific that motivates you or what you enjoy most about working for the department.

Example: “I am motivated every day to come into work because I love helping people. I feel like my job here at HHS is so important because we’re able to provide healthcare services to millions of Americans. I’m always excited to start my day knowing that I’ll get to interact with patients and their families.”

10. We are looking for people who can work well independently, but also collaborate effectively with a team. Which one do you prefer?

This question can help the interviewer determine your preferred working style and assess whether you would be a good fit for their organization. Your answer should reflect that you are willing to work both independently and collaboratively, depending on what is needed in your role.

Example: “I prefer collaborating with others because I find it more efficient than working alone. However, I am also comfortable working independently if necessary. In my previous position, I worked as part of a team but was also responsible for completing tasks on my own. For example, I had to research information about various healthcare topics and write reports about them.”

11. What type of work environment allows you to perform at your best?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your preferences and how you might fit in with the current team. Your answer should include a few details about what makes you comfortable, such as an open office space or quiet room.

Example: “I prefer working in a collaborative environment where I can talk to my colleagues when I need help. In my last role, we had an open floor plan that allowed me to see everyone at all times. This helped me feel less isolated and gave me access to other employees who could help me if I needed it.”

12. Where do you see yourself in five years?

This question is a common one for employers to ask because it helps them understand your career goals. When answering this question, be honest about what you hope to achieve in the next few years and how working at HHS can help you get there.

Example: “I see myself as an administrator of a large healthcare facility. I would love to work my way up through the ranks until I’m leading a team that’s helping thousands of people every day. Working with HHS has given me the opportunity to learn more about health care administration, so I know that if I continue on this path, I’ll have the skills necessary to reach my goal.”

13. Describe a situation where you were able to use persuasion to successfully convince someone to see things your way.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your communication skills and how you use them to influence others. Use examples from previous work or school experiences where you had to convince someone of something important.

Example: “In my last position, I was working with a team on a project that required us to meet certain deadlines. One member of the group wasn’t meeting their deadlines, which caused some issues for the rest of us. I met with the individual privately and explained why it was important for everyone to meet their deadlines. They understood, but they were still struggling to meet their deadlines. I offered to help them by taking over one of their tasks so they could focus on what they needed to do.”

14. Are you familiar with the Federal Rules of Evidence?

The Federal Rules of Evidence are a set of rules that govern the admissibility of evidence in federal courts. The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of legal procedures and how they apply to administrative work. In your answer, try to explain what the Federal Rules of Evidence are and why you would use them in your daily work.

Example: “I am familiar with the Federal Rules of Evidence because I have used them before when working on cases for my current employer. These rules help determine which types of evidence can be presented in court and which ones cannot. For example, hearsay is not allowed as evidence unless it falls under an exception. As someone who values accuracy and documentation, I find these rules very helpful when conducting research.”

15. If hired, how would you determine if an agency was violating HIPAA regulations?

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your ability to apply the regulations of HIPAA. Use examples from your experience that show how you would use the guidelines and procedures for determining if an agency was violating HIPAA regulations.

Example: “I have worked with many clients who were required to follow HIPAA regulations, so I am familiar with the process for ensuring they are following them. If I noticed a client wasn’t following HIPAA regulations, I would first check their privacy notice to ensure it is up-to-date and compliant. Then, I would review any contracts or agreements between my client and other organizations to make sure there aren’t any violations. Finally, I would speak with my client about the issue and offer advice on how to avoid future violations.”

16. Have you ever worked on a project that didn’t go according to plan? How did you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer get a better sense of your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt. Your answer should include an example of a time when you had to adjust your approach or strategy in order to complete a project successfully.

Example: “In my current role as a social media specialist, I was tasked with creating content for our company’s blog that would increase traffic to our website by 20%. After analyzing our existing content, I decided to create more informative posts rather than just promotional ones. While this did lead to increased traffic, it wasn’t enough to meet the goal I’d been given. So, I adjusted my strategy again and started including links to relevant products within each post.”

17. Explain the difference between an administrative law judge and an attorney advisor.

Administrative law judges and attorney advisors are two positions within the US Department of Health and Human Services. The interviewer will want to know that you understand the differences between these roles and can apply your skills in both areas if necessary.

Example: “Administrative law judges hear cases involving federal regulations, while attorney advisors provide legal advice to HHS officials. Administrative law judges must have a background in administrative law or public interest law, whereas attorney advisors need at least five years of experience as an attorney. Attorney advisors also need to pass a written exam and oral interview before they can begin their role.”

18. What would you do if you found out that a fellow employee was not following company policy?

This question can help the interviewer assess your ability to work with others and how you would handle a conflict. Your answer should show that you are willing to speak up when necessary, but also that you respect authority and will follow company policy yourself.

Example: “If I found out that a fellow employee was not following company policy, I would first try to talk to them about it in private. If they were uncooperative or continued to break the rules, I would report them to my supervisor so they could take appropriate action.”

19. What do you know about our agency?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to assess your research skills and determine how much you know about their organization. Before your interview, make sure to read up on the HHS website and any other sources that provide information about the department’s mission and goals.

Example: “I’ve done quite a bit of research on the US Department of Health and Human Services, including reading through the agency’s annual reports and learning more about its programs. I’m especially interested in the work you do with Medicare and Medicaid, as I have personal experience working with these programs while at my last job.”

20. What interests you most about this position?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have done your research on the position and are excited about what it offers. When answering this question, be sure to highlight aspects of the job that align with your interests and career goals.

Example: “I am most interested in working for a government agency because I want to make a positive impact on my community. In my previous role as a social worker, I saw how important it was to provide resources to families who needed them. Working for HHS would allow me to continue doing this work while also contributing to national policy.”