In this week’s episode of The Health Advocates, host Steven Newmark unpacks a whirlwind of health news that could reshape the foundation of U.S. public health. From a major lawsuit against HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to record-high measles cases and the quiet cancelation of a critical preventive care meeting, Steven explains what’s at stake. Plus, he shares a hopeful update on bird flu and the importance of defending science-based health policy amid political disruption.

Among the highlights in this episode:

00:56 : Steven explains the lawsuit against HHS Secretary RFK Jr. for bypassing CDC and ACIP (Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices) input in changing COVID-19 vaccine guidance

01:33 : Steven emphasizes how sidelining scientific advisors erodes public health trust and transparency

02:02 : Measles cases hit a 30-year high; Steven explores how vaccine hesitancy has contributed to this preventable public health failure

02:47 : Steven discusses how vaccine misinformation puts vulnerable groups like children and immunocompromised people at risk

03:06 : Steven shares encouraging news: the CDC has ended its emergency response to the bird flu outbreak due to declining animal infections

03:36 : Steven explains how a well-functioning public health system should respond to outbreaks like H5N1

04:11 : A last-minute cancellation of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force meeting raises concerns about potential political interference

04:37 : Steven connects this move to a recent Supreme Court ruling that allows the HHS Secretary to replace members of this influential panel

04:47 : Steven warns that this could lead to fewer no-cost preventive services covered by insurance under the ACA

05:12 : Steven announces the new season of Let’s Get Personal, which focuses on rheumatoid factor levels in RA. Tune in to the new episodes and explore our related resources at: https://creakyjoints.org/lets-get-personal/

Contact Our Host

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

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