HHS Secretary Kennedy Considers Removing Preventive Services Task Force Members

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is considering dismissing all 16 members of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, according to two people familiar with the plan.

The task force is a highly influential advisory committee composed of independent doctors, nurses, and public health experts who provide evidence-based recommendations on preventive health services. The panel reviews medical research on diseases and issues, guidance that influences healthcare practices nationwide, including recommendations on screenings for cancer, heart disease, and other conditions.

An HHS spokesperson said no final decision has been made regarding changes to the task force membership.

The consideration comes after Kennedy abruptly postponed a scheduled meeting with task force members on heart disease and prevention earlier this month. Task force members were not given a reason for the cancellation or told whether the meeting would be rescheduled.