Just days into his tenure as Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is already backtracking on ‘assurance’ he gave during his Senate confirmation.
Despite pledging to uphold the integrity of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and not to interfere with childhood immunizations, Kennedy has already taken action to destabilize ACIP and evidence-based vaccine policy.
The ACIP, a panel of independent experts, is instrumental in developing vaccine recommendations in the US. These guidelines inform healthcare providers and influence insurance coverage, as most health plans must cover vaccines recommended by the ACIP. Those that aren’t on the schedule are generally not covered.
On his first day in office, Kennedy postponed a scheduled ACIP meeting set for late February. This meeting was slated to discuss critical updates on vaccines, including Gardasil, the human papillomavirus vaccine that prevents cervical cancer.
Kennedy has a history of opposing Gardasil, having represented individuals claiming injury from the vaccine and alleging that its manufacturer, Merck, overstated HPV risks to promote mass vaccinations.
Beyond canceling the meeting, reports indicate that Kennedy plans to overhaul the ACIP by removing members he perceives as having conflicts of interest.
RFK Jr. prepares shake-up of vaccine advisers – POLITICO
The ACIP’s recommendations are foundational to public health, guiding vaccine schedules that have significantly reduced the prevalence of infectious diseases. Insurance coverage for vaccines is often contingent upon these recommendations, meaning alterations could lead to decreased coverage and higher out-of-pocket costs for patients
During his confirmation, Kennedy assured senators that he would respect scientific analyses and uphold existing immunization practices. His recent actions, however, indicate a (predictable) departure from these commitments.
As these developments unfold, we will continue to raise the alarm and do what we can to educate the public about the real consequences of Mr. Kennedy’s decisions and actions.
I have no delusions that we will get him to change his mind about anything – but it will at least feel good to tell the public the truth in our small little way.