APTR joined nearly 200 organizations to send a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, insisting that he defend the mission of the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and preserve it in its entirety.  APTR has released the following statement:

APTR Statement on USPSTF Member Composition

The Association for Prevention Teaching and Research (APTR) has managed residency rotations at the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) For over 20 years.  Reports that HHS Secretary Kennedy is considering replacing the current USPSTF members without transparent justification are deeply alarming. Such action threatens to undermine the integrity and independence of a panel that has long served as a trusted, nonpartisan and non-governmental, authority entrusted by all prior administrations to make and keep Americans healthy. Disrupting the continuity and expertise of the Task Force would have serious consequences for the clinical and public health communities—and for the millions of Americans who rely on their guidance.

For over 40 years, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has been a respected, independent panel of experts that makes unbiased, evidence-based recommendations on clinical preventive services. Their recommendations are based on a rigorous analysis of existing peer-reviewed evidence and are intended to help primary care clinicians and patients decide together whether a preventive service is right for a patient's individual needs. These recommendations also influence which services are covered by health plans without cost sharing, supporting a health care system grounded in prevention, equity, and affordability.

We strongly urge Secretary Kennedy to consider the consequences of this action. At the very least, we call for a transparent, evidence-based, and participatory process that allows for meaningful engagement from public health professionals, clinical experts, academic partners, and community stakeholders. Any changes to the composition or operation of the USPSTF should be made with deliberation, openness, and accountability; ensuring that this vital institution continues to serve the public with integrity and independence.