US Preventive Services Task Force Meetings Halted Under Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force, a key public health panel, has faced significant delays under the leadership of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This panel, crucial for assessing scientific evidence on preventive health measures like screenings for cancer, diabetes, and H.I.V., has not convened in person since March 2025.

Typically holding thrice-yearly meetings, the task force’s guidance is instrumental for doctors and affects insurance coverage decisions impacting millions of Americans. However, meetings have been stalled for the fourth time under the current administration. Last week, a planned July meeting was postponed, as confirmed by Emily Hilliard, spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services.

Ms. Hilliard explained the delay was due to an “unprecedented number of nominations” for task force positions, requiring more time for member selection and onboarding. The Supreme Court’s June 2025 decision allowed Mr. Kennedy to remove panel members and overturn decisions unilaterally.

Under his tenure, meetings were canceled in July and November 2025, as well as March 2026. He has also left vacancies unfilled, some arising from expired member terms. In May, he dismissed the panel’s two chairs. A call for nominations to fill open seats went out in April, with a May 23 deadline, advising that application materials were on file at the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

However, when a New York Times reporter attempted to access these documents on June 15, entry was denied. Officials cited a need for redaction and have not clarified when these materials will be accessible.

Maggie Astor provides coverage on women’s health and the influence of governmental policies on health for The Times.