AMA Urges RFK Jr. to Retain Preventive Health Panel Amid Dismissal Plans

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is reportedly planning to remove all members of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), a move that has sparked significant concern from the American Medical Association (AMA) and other health experts. The USPSTF, established over 40 years ago and empowered by the Affordable Care Act, provides independent, evidence-based recommendations for preventive health services that insurers are required to cover without cost-sharing. The AMA emphasized the task force's non-partisan, expert role in improving public health and urged Kennedy to retain its members to ensure continuity in preventive care guidance. Kennedy’s reported decision comes after he previously dismissed the vaccine advisory board, drawing criticism over the qualifications of its replacements. The USPSTF’s authority was recently upheld by the Supreme Court, which also affirmed Kennedy’s power to remove panel members, fueling speculation that political considerations, including accusations of the panel being too 'woke,' are influencing the decision. HHS has stated no final decision has been made, indicating ongoing deliberations on how the task force can support the administration's “Make America Healthy Again” agenda.