AAMC President and CEO David J. Skorton, MD, issued an April 2 statement on the mass layoffs and reorganization at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The statement highlights the association’s concerns over how the agency’s actions “are likely to slow scientific advancement and negatively impact the health and well-being of the American people.” The AAMC noted that “These are sweeping changes to the federal health infrastructure, and we wish to work with the administration to understand how the health of Americans will be impacted. As the nation faces critical health challenges — and the potential for life-saving medical advancements is based on federally supported research — the AAMC remains committed to and ready to work with the leadership of HHS in our mission to improve the health of all patients, families, and communities.”
Following the HHS restructuring announcement, Sens. Bill Cassidy, MD (R-La) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), chair and ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, respectively, issued a letter inviting HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to appear before the committee for an April 10 hearing titled “An Update on the Restructuring of the Department of Health and Human Services.” In addition, Reps. Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.), chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Buddy Carter (R-Ga.), chair of the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, issued a joint statement saying “It is critical that the department is in a position to accomplish its core and essential mission to support all Americans.” House Energy and Commerce Committee Democrats, including full committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone (D-N.J.) and Health Subcommittee Ranking Member Diana DeGette (D-Colo.) sent a letter to Guthrie urging the committee hold a hearing with Kennedy regarding the restructuring.
- Washington Highlights