Written by I. Edwards
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. unexpectedly canceled a meeting of the government health panel responsible for guiding what preventive care is covered by insurance, causing worry among doctors and health officials.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) had scheduled a meeting for Thursday, but members received an email on Monday informing them of the postponement without providing a reason.
“Moving forward, HHS looks forward to engaging with the task force to promote the health and well-being of the American people,” the email stated, as reported by The New York Times.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) did not respond to inquiries about the cancellation.
The USPSTF is comprised of 16 volunteer doctors and health experts who convene multiple times a year to evaluate the most recent scientific findings and determine which screenings, medications, and other preventive services should be fully covered by insurance.
This encompasses tests for lung cancer, medications for reducing stroke risk, and other life-saving services.
The decision to cancel the July meeting comes after a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that affirmed the task force’s role but also granted Kennedy the authority to disregard its recommendations or dismiss members prematurely, according to The Times.
There are now concerns among experts that the task force, similar to another federal health panel, could undergo significant restructuring.
Earlier this year, Kennedy removed all 17 members from a U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vaccine committee and replaced them with individuals who have publicly expressed doubts about vaccine safety.
“This is very concerning,” stated Dr. Peter Lurie, executive director of the Center for Science in the Public Interest. “If history is any indication, it may indicate that they are gearing up to dismantle or weaken the [USPSTF] committee.”
The USPSTF has enjoyed bipartisan support for a long time and is considered a reliable source of science-based care. Its members are typically primary care doctors or academics.
