The National Medical Association (NMA) is voicing concern following the removal of two top leaders of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), warning that the decision could undermine confidence in one of the nation’s most influential sources of evidence-based healthcare guidance.
In a statement released May 27, NMA President Dr. Roger A. Mitchell, Jr., criticized the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ decision to remove Dr. John Wong and Dr. Esa Davis from their positions as vice chairs of the task force, an independent panel whose recommendations help determine which preventive healthcare services are covered by insurance plans at no cost to patients.
“The USPSTF has long served as one of the nation’s most trusted, evidence-based bodies for preventive healthcare recommendations that directly impact millions of Americans,” Mitchell said. “The abrupt removal of experienced leaders from an independent scientific panel risks weakening public confidence in the nation’s healthcare infrastructure at a time when trust in public health institutions is critically important.”
The removals were reportedly ordered by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who informed Wong and Davis in letters dated May 11 that their appointments were being terminated immediately as part of a review of task force appointments. According to multiple news reports, Kennedy said the action was intended to ensure “clarity, continuity and confidence” in the department’s oversight of the panel.
The USPSTF was established in 1984 and is composed of nationally recognized experts in prevention, primary care and evidence-based medicine. Its recommendations play a significant role in shaping federal health policy and determining which preventive services insurers must cover under the Affordable Care Act. Those services include screenings for colorectal and lung cancer, diabetes, maternal depression and other conditions.
Wong, a professor at Tufts University School of Medicine, and Davis, a professor and senior administrator at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, have both been recognized for their work in preventive medicine, primary care and health equity. Their departure leaves the 16-member panel with only eight sitting members after several other vacancies went unfilled earlier this year.
The NMA argues that preventive healthcare remains one of the most effective tools for improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare disparities, particularly in Black communities and other underserved populations.
“Preventive healthcare is the cornerstone of a healthier nation,” Mitchell said. “Early screenings for cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, HIV prevention, maternal health conditions and mental health disorders save lives, reduce healthcare costs and help eliminate longstanding health disparities.”
The organization also expressed concern about the future direction of the task force. Last year, reports surfaced that Kennedy was considering a broader overhaul of the panel, and several healthcare organizations have since questioned whether future appointments will maintain the same level of scientific independence and expertise.
America’s Physician Groups, which represents more than 300 physician organizations nationwide, recently issued a statement calling for greater transparency regarding the dismissals and future appointments. The group emphasized that evidence-based preventive care remains central to improving health outcomes and controlling healthcare costs.
The National Medical Association said it will continue advocating for policies that preserve access to preventive care and protect the independence of scientific advisory bodies.
“The NMA remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing health equity, protecting access to preventive healthcare and supporting the independence of scientific and medical advisory bodies,” Mitchell said. “We urge HHS leadership to preserve the integrity, transparency and nonpartisan nature of the USPSTF so that preventive healthcare recommendations continue to reflect the best available medical evidence and the needs of all communities.”
The controversy comes as healthcare leaders across the country continue to debate the role of independent scientific panels in shaping public health policy and ensuring access to preventive services for millions of Americans.
