HOSA, or Future Health Professionals, aims to empower its members to lead within the global health community through education, collaboration, and hands-on experience. Central to HOSA's mission is fostering leadership and technical skills among health science students, integrating motivation, awareness, and recognition into their educational journey. The organization emphasizes goals such as promoting well-being, developing effective communication and leadership abilities, fostering character and citizenship, and encouraging career growth in healthcare. Anchored by a creed that values compassionate healthcare, academic excellence, and community service, HOSA members strive to advance healthcare through learning, leadership, and innovation.

The national group's genesis began as an aspiration of forward-thinking leaders in Health Occupations Education during the 1960s and early 70s. It was initially conceived by six charter states in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, in November 1975, and officially organized a year later in Arlington, Texas. The Constitutional Convention in Arlington saw participation from state supervisors, teachers, and over 300 student leaders. At its inception, the organization spanned six states with nearly 6000 student members, focusing on nursing, dental, medical, and related programs, as well as pre-technical health careers approved by State Departments of Education.