RFK Jr. fires top leaders of preventive health task force

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has fired the two leaders of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), a panel that determines which preventive health services must be covered by insurance under the Affordable Care Act. The dismissals of Drs. John Wong and Esa Davis, announced in letters dated May 11, came before the end of their terms. The task force, which evaluates the scientific evidence behind preventive care guidelines, has been sidelined in recent months, with scheduled meetings postponed indefinitely. Kennedy’s letters praised the doctors’ contributions but did not specify the reason for their removal. He cited a review of task force appointments to ensure “clarity, continuity, and confidence” in oversight. The task force’s work influences coverage for services like mammograms, colonoscopies, and depression screenings, which are required to be covered without co-pays if given an “A” or “B” grade by the panel. Kennedy has previously criticized the task force as “lackadaisical” and pledged to increase its transparency and meeting frequency. The panel has not met since March 2024, and its annual report to Congress for 2025 has not been produced. Health policy experts have speculated that Kennedy may be reshaping the task force to align with his policy priorities, including potential changes to vaccine recommendations. Last year, he disbanded and reconstituted the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, leading to revised vaccine guidelines.