The District of Columbia Department of Health’s Health Regulation and Licensing Administration consists of three administrations: the Health Professional and Licensing Administration (HPLA), the Health Regulation Administration (HRA), and the Bureau of Community Hygiene (BCH). 

HPLA provides administrative and legal support to, and investigates complaints on behalf of, the Health Occupations Boards who are responsible for consumer protection through the licensure and regulation of health care professionals.  The Department of Health’s Pharmaceutical Control Division, in collaboration with the Board of Pharmacy, ensures that pharmaceutical products and services available for consumption and use in the District’s pharmacies are safe for their intended purposes.

HRA administers all District and federal laws and regulations governing the licensure, certification and registration of health care and human services facilities and establishments to ensure the protection of the health and safety of those who receive services from or care in these facilities and establishments.

BCH consists of the Department of Health's Animal Disease Prevention Division and the Food Protection Division.  The Animal Disease Prevention Division prevents and controls the spread of diseases transmitted from animals to humans.  The Food Protection Division inspects and regulates the city’s 4,700 food establishments to ensure that residents and visitors to the city consume safe and wholesome food.

Through its investigation, inspection, licensure, certification, registration, and regulation activities, HRLA provides an invaluable service that helps to protect the health, safety and welfare of District residents and visitors to the Nation’s Capital.