The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) stands as a premier, non-profit organization dedicated to national health policy. As a uniquely structured entity, KFF expertly combines policy research, public opinion polling, and health journalism within a single organization. This integration allows KFF to serve as a reliable and independent source of information, crucial for navigating the complex landscape of health issues in the United States. KFF’s distinct approach and broad reach effectively counterbalance vested interests within the healthcare sector, ensuring that the public’s perspective remains central to the conversation.
What We Do at Kaiser Family Foundation
At the heart of the Kaiser Family Foundation’s mission is a commitment to providing in-depth, factual information on a wide range of health policy topics. Our work spans several key areas:
- Policy Research: KFF conducts rigorous, data-driven research to analyze critical health policy issues. This research informs policymakers, media, and the public, contributing to a deeper understanding of healthcare challenges and potential solutions.
- Public Opinion Polling: Understanding public perspectives is vital. KFF’s polling and survey research provide valuable insights into Americans’ attitudes and experiences related to health and healthcare. This data is essential for shaping effective health policy and communication strategies.
- Health Journalism: Through kffhealthnews.org and partnerships with major news organizations, KFF journalists deliver timely, objective reporting on health issues. This journalistic arm ensures that complex health information is accessible and understandable to a broad audience.
KFF headquarters building in San Francisco, California, reflecting the organization’s established presence in health policy.
Our Structure and Independence
KFF operates as an endowed public charity, legally structured as a non-profit organization. It’s important to note that KFF is distinct and has no affiliation with Kaiser Permanente. This independent structure is fundamental to maintaining our objectivity and trustworthiness.
Our operations are primarily supported by a dedicated endowment. We also receive supplemental funding from external foundations for specific, large-scale projects that extend beyond our standard operating budget. This diversified funding model reinforces our independence and allows us to undertake comprehensive projects in the public interest. Learn more about our financials and funding for complete transparency.
KFF is guided by a distinguished Board of Trustees, currently chaired by former Senator Olympia Snowe. The leadership of Dr. Drew Altman, KFF’s President and CEO since 1991, has been instrumental in shaping the organization into the influential voice it is today. For a deeper dive into our origins and guiding principles, read Dr. Altman’s message about KFF’s history and mission.
Our Locations
KFF has a national presence with offices and staff across the United States. Our main locations include:
Headquarters:
KFF Headquarters: 185 Berry Street, Suite 2000, San Francisco, CA 94107 | Phone: (650) 854-9400 | Fax: (650) 854-4800 (Directions)
Washington, DC Office & Barbara Jordan Conference Center:
1330 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005 | Phone: (202) 347-5270 | Fax: (202) 347-5274 (Directions)
The Kaiser Family Foundation’s Washington D.C. office, home to the Barbara Jordan Conference Center, facilitating health policy discussions in the nation’s capital.
Both our San Francisco and Washington, D.C. locations offer free conference center spaces for events related to health policy.
Conclusion
The Kaiser Family Foundation remains dedicated to its role as a leading source of trusted information on national health issues. Through our commitment to independent research, public polling, and objective journalism, we strive to inform and engage the public and policymakers alike, fostering a more informed and equitable healthcare landscape in the U.S.
