The health planning and research unit enhances DHHS strategic planning and research capabilities. It works to build a framework within which NH government, communities, health care providers and others can work together to prepare "a comprehensive and coordinated system of health and human services as needed to promote and protect the health, safety and well-being of the citizens of New Hampshire" in accordance with NH Statutes.  HPR brings it's expertise and talents to support NH's medical assistance services funded by a combination of NH general funds and federal funds under the Medicaid program.  HPR has two primary areas of responsibility.

Planning and Policy Development: This unit facilitates and supports community based planning efforts across NH under the leadership of seven community councils known as District Health Councils.  These Councils are comprised of NH citizens, health and social service professionals, and other elected officials.  The unit is engaged in the development and maintenance of a framework to understand the needs of NH residents and to improve the delivery of health care and social services.

Research and Data Analysis: HPR conducts research and analysis in areas that support the NH health plan and other DHHS and Medicaid key initiatives.  Current areas of focus include pharmacy service access, partnership with the New Hampshire Institute for Health Policy and Practice at the University of New Hampshire (NHIHPP), development of measures of population health status to use for statewide and local level planning, and analysis of health care access and health insurance availability for NH residents.