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U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is reportedly considering a major shake-up of the advisory panel that guides which cancer screenings and preventive health services must be covered by insurers. According to a report by the Wall Street Journal on Friday, Kennedy plans to remove all members of the 16-person U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, which plays a key role in shaping national health policy.

However, a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) clarified that no final decision has been made regarding the panel. The spokesperson emphasized that Kennedy is still reviewing options and has not yet decided whether to proceed with replacing the task force members.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is an independent panel of experts that evaluates scientific evidence and issues recommendations on screenings and preventive care to improve public health outcomes. Its guidance directly influences insurance coverage requirements under the Affordable Care Act, making it a powerful body in shaping healthcare access and preventive measures.

Kennedy’s reported plan, if enacted, would represent a significant change to how preventive health recommendations are developed in the U.S. Critics and supporters alike are watching closely to see what direction the new leadership might take.

For now, the future of the USPSTF remains uncertain as HHS continues its internal review.

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