RFK Jr. Plans Overhaul of Cancer Screening Task Force Amid Controversy

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. intends to remove all 16 members of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), citing concerns that the group is too “woke.” According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, the Secretary of Health and Human Services is planning a complete overhaul of this influential organization, which is responsible for determining which preventive health measures, such as cancer screenings, must be covered at no cost by insurance providers.

Kennedy’s assertion that the task force is overly progressive stems from its recent use of language that he finds objectionable. Individuals familiar with the situation noted that the July 9 article in The American Conservative highlighted the task force’s references to terms like “pregnant persons,” “structural racism,” and “microaggressions.” This has raised questions about the influence of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within governmental health organizations.

The move reflects a broader trend observed during the Trump administration, where various departments have scrutinized DEI-related content. This scrutiny has sometimes led to unintended consequences, such as the Defense Department’s decision to delete a photo of the WWII bomber Enola Gay from its website, indicating a potentially excessive reaction to the issues of DEI.

The Department of Health and Human Services did not respond to a request for comment from The Daily Beast. A spokesperson for Kennedy expressed optimism about collaborating with the USPSTF to enhance public health outcomes.

This decision follows other controversial actions by Kennedy, including the recent disbanding of the nation’s top advisory committee on vaccinations. This prior move drew significant backlash from medical professionals and Democratic lawmakers, who criticized it as undermining public health initiatives.

Kennedy’s plans for the USPSTF have sparked debate regarding the balance between progressive language and the effectiveness of health communication. As the task force plays a crucial role in shaping preventive care policies, the implications of this overhaul could have far-reaching effects on public health in the United States.